HB6 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Juandalynn GivanRepresentative

Democrat

Co-Sponsor

Anthony Daniels

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Law enforcement, recordings, procedure to determine to whom and what portion of a recording to disclose or release established

Summary

HB6 creates a formal process to decide who can view or get portions of law enforcement recordings, how to challenge refusals, and requires agencies to provide access to view recordings on request.

What This Bill Does

It defines key terms like body-worn cameras, dashboard cameras, disclosure, and release, and sets who can receive disclosures. It requires written requests to custodial law enforcement agencies and limits disclosures to specific people or their representatives, disclosing only the portions relevant to the request. It allows appealing a denial or delay in disclosure through circuit court, with possible in-camera review. It also requires agencies to adopt camera-use policies and retain recordings according to state schedules.

Who It Affects

• People whose image or voice is in a recording and their personal representatives, who may request disclosure and receive only the relevant portions.
• Custodial law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, and other law enforcement entities that manage recordings, decide on disclosures, and may face court actions or policy requirements.

Key Provisions

• Establishes a procedure to determine whether, to whom, and what portions of a recording may be disclosed or released.
• Requires a written request to the head of the custodial agency and limits disclosures to eligible persons or their representatives, with only relevant portions shared.
• If a disclosure is denied or not provided within three business days, allows a petition to the circuit court for an order releasing the recording, with in-camera review possible.
• Courts consider factors such as public interest, confidentiality, safety, potential impact on investigations, and whether all or part of the recording should be released.
• Agency may disclose to district attorneys for charging, discovery, or use in criminal proceedings, and for training or inter-agency purposes.
• Recording retention follows the state retention schedule; agencies must adopt policies governing use of body-worn and dashboard cameras.
• Provides that good-faith compliance with the act offers no civil liability, and attorneys' fees are not awarded.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

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

Subjects

Law Enforcement