SB3 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Bryan Taylor

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Gambling devices, possession in furtherance of a business enterprise, penalty increased, Sec. 13A-12-27 am'd.

Summary

SB3 makes possession of a gambling device in furtherance of a business enterprise a Class C felony, increasing penalties for that behavior.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, it changes the crime of possessing a gambling device in a business setting from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony. It maintains the existing definition of possession of a gambling device and clarifies the new penalty. It also states that the bill is exempt from local-funding approval requirements under Amendment 621 because it creates or amends a crime, and it becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it passes and the governor approves.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who possess a gambling device for the purpose of a business enterprise would face a Class C felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor.
• Businesses involved in possessing or using gambling devices for profit could face harsher penalties.
• Law enforcement and prosecutors would apply the stricter felony classification when applicable.
• Local governments are not required to approve or seek a 2/3 vote for this measure under Amendment 621 because the bill is stated to be exempt.

Key Provisions

• Modifies §13A-12-27 so that possession of a gambling device in furtherance of a business enterprise is a Class C felony.
• Keeps the general crime of possession of a gambling device as a Class A misdemeanor when not in furtherance of a business enterprise.
• Contains a provision stating the bill is exempt from Amendment 621 local-funding requirements because it defines or amends a crime.
• Sets the act’s effective date as the first day of the third month after passage and governor’s 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