HB619 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Connie C. Rowe

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Municipal courts, imposition of sentence of imprisonment not to exceed one year, authorized, Sec. 11-45-9 am'd.

Summary

HB619 would let municipal courts sentence Class A misdemeanor offenses to up to one year in jail instead of the previous six-month limit.

What This Bill Does

It amends Section 11-45-9 to create an exception that allows a municipal court to impose up to one year of imprisonment for Class A misdemeanors. For Class A misdemeanors, the penalties would still include a fine up to $6,000 and imprisonment up to one year, and the general six-month cap for imprisonment remains for other offenses under the section. The bill notes it would involve local funds but is exempt from local approval or a 2/3 vote requirements because it defines or amends a crime. It becomes effective on the first day of the third month after the Governor signs it into law.

Who It Affects

• Municipal courts in Alabama, which would be allowed to impose up to one year of imprisonment for Class A misdemeanor offenses.
• Individuals charged with or convicted of Class A misdemeanor offenses in municipalities, who could face longer potential jail terms (up to one year) as a result.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 11-45-9 to allow a municipal court to impose imprisonment up to one year for Class A misdemeanor offenses.
• Maintains Class A misdemeanor penalties of up to a $6,000 fine and up to one year imprisonment.
• States that, although the bill could involve local expenditures, it is exempt from Amendment 621 local approval requirements because it defines or amends a crime.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month following the Governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Municipalities