SB318 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Greg J. Reed

Republican

Co-Sponsor

Bryan Taylor

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

Gambling devices, possession, penalty increased, Sec. 13A-12-27 am'd.

Summary

SB318 would raise the penalty for possession of a gambling device from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony, and notes an Amendment 621 local-funding exception because it amends a crime definition.

What This Bill Does

It changes the crime of possession of a gambling device to a Class C felony. The bill keeps the same crime elements, covering slot machines and other gambling devices used to promote unlawful gambling with knowledge of their character. It notes a potential local-funding impact under Amendment 621 but is exempt because it defines a crime. The act would take effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• People who possess gambling devices (such as slot machines or other gambling devices) – they would face a Class C felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor.
• Local governments and taxpayers – the bill acknowledges potential local funding impacts but is exempt from Amendment 621 requirements because it changes the crime definition.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 13A-12-27 to make possession of a gambling device a Class C felony (instead of Class A misdemeanor) and to define the crime's elements.
• Covers possession of slot machines and other gambling devices intended for unlawful gambling activity, with knowledge of their character.
• States the bill is exempt from Amendment 621 local-funding requirements because it defines a new crime or amends an existing crime.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month following passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses