SB179 Alabama 2018 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Cam Ward
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2018
Title: Human trafficking, increase criminal penalties for obstructing enforcement of, Secs. 13A-6-152, 13A-6-153 am'd.
Summary: SB 179 would strengthen penalties for obstructing enforcement of Alabama's human trafficking laws.
What This Bill Does
It amends Sections 13A-6-152 and 13A-6-153 to create harsher penalties for obstructing enforcement of human trafficking laws. Specifically, obstructing enforcement in the first-degree trafficking case would be a Class C felony, while obstructing enforcement in the second-degree trafficking case would be a Class B felony. The bill notes it is exempt from local-funding approval requirements under Amendment 621 because it defines or amends a crime. It becomes effective on the first day of the third month after the Governor signs it.

Who It Affects
Individuals who obstruct or interfere with enforcement of Alabama's human trafficking laws would face higher penalties (Class C felony for first-degree obstruction; Class B felony for second-degree obstruction).
Local governmental entities are noted to be exempt from local-funding approval requirements under Amendment 621 due to the bill defining or amending a crime.

Key Provisions
Amends 13A-6-152 and 13A-6-153 to enhance penalties for the obstruction of enforcement of human trafficking laws.
First-degree obstruction: Class C felony.
Second-degree obstruction: Class B felony.
Provides an Amendment 621 exemption, indicating the bill does not require local funding approvals or a 2/3 vote because it defines or amends a crime.
Effective date: first day of the third month following passage and governor 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: Human Trafficking