SB98 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald H. AllenSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Firearms, accessories, and ammunition manufactured in this state, under Commerce Clause of U. S. Constitution exempt from federal regulation, Firearms Freedom Act

Summary

SB98 would create the Alabama Firearms Freedom Act, exempting firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition manufactured and kept in Alabama from federal regulation under the Commerce Clause, with definitions and specific requirements.

What This Bill Does

It states that firearms, accessories, and ammunition manufactured in Alabama and retained there are not subject to federal regulation or registration for interstate commerce. It defines terms like the borders of Alabama, firearm accessories, generic/insignificant parts, and what counts as manufactured. It requires Alabama-made items to have a 'Made in Alabama' stamp on a central metal part. It also lists certain items that are not protected by the act and sets a timing and applicability framework for when the act takes effect.

Who It Affects

• Alabama residents or businesses that manufacture firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition within Alabama and keep them there (they would be exempt from certain federal regulation).
• Federal regulators and the interstate commerce framework, as the act asserts intrastate, Alabama-made items would not be subject to federal regulation under the Commerce Clause.

Key Provisions

• Exemption from federal regulation for firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition manufactured and retained in Alabama.
• Definitions establishing terms such as 'BORDERS OF ALABAMA', 'FIREARM ACCESSORIES', 'GENERIC AND INSIGNIFICANT PARTS', and 'MANUFACTURED'.
• Manufacturing condition: items must be made in Alabama from basic materials and without significant parts imported from another state to be exempt.
• Stamping requirement: items manufactured or sold in Alabama under this act must bear 'Made in Alabama' on a central metallic part (e.g., receiver or frame).
• Exclusions from protection: certain firearms or ammunition are not covered (cannot be carried by one person; bore >1.5 inches with smokeless powder; explosive ammunition; multi-projectile discharge with one trigger).
• Part and import rule Clarifications: generic parts and imported firearm accessories that are federally regulated do not subject the item to federal regulation when used with an Alabama-made firearm.
• Effective date and applicability: applies to firearms, accessories, and ammunition manufactured and retained in Alabama on or after October 1, 2011, and becomes law on the first day of the third month after 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

Firearms