HB88 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jim HillRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Crimes and offenses, provide that a judge may use discretion in the length of sentence a defendant must serve if his or her probation is revoked, Secs. 12-25-34, 12-25-34.2, 12-25-36, 15-18-8 am'd.

Summary

HB 88 lets judges decide how long a defendant serves after probation is revoked and updates the timing and language of truth-in-sentencing along with minor technical edits.

What This Bill Does

Gives judges discretion in determining the length of the sentence a defendant must serve if probation is revoked (instead of automatically requiring the remainder of the original sentence). Revises the implementation date for truth-in-sentencing standards and how they apply to felonies, with standards becoming effective on a set date after the relevant regular session. Includes nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update code language to current style.

Who It Affects

• Defendants convicted of Class A/B felonies (and certain Class C felonies) who are on probation or facing probation revocation; their revocation sentences could be lengthier or shorter at the judge’s discretion.
• The Alabama judiciary and corrections system (courts, probation/parole agencies, and the Department of Corrections) responsible for administering sentencing and implementing truth-in-sentencing standards; they will adapt to the new discretion rules, updated dates, and revised language.

Key Provisions

• Specific provision 1: Allows a sentencing judge to discretionary determine the length of any revocation sentence when probation is revoked (amends Section 15-18-8).
• Specific provision 2: Revises the implementation date for truth-in-sentencing standards and related provisions (amends Sections 12-25-34, 12-25-34.2, and 12-25-36).
• Specific provision 3: Adds nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update code language to current style across amended sections.
• Specific provision 4: Establishes that the act becomes effective immediately after the governor signs it.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses