HB291 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

John W. Rogers

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Security cameras, requiring each courthouse, shopping mall, and business within a shopping mall to operate a security camera at all times, requiring each video and audio recording to be stored for 60 days after recording

Summary

HB291 would require security cameras with audio in courthouses and shopping malls, keep recordings for 60 days, and trigger local-funding requirements under Amendment 621.

What This Bill Does

It requires each state, county, and municipal courthouse, every shopping mall, and each business inside a mall to have at least one functional camera with audio that operates continuously and records the primary entrance. It mandates storing every video or audio recording for at least 60 days. It also changes how local expenditures are handled by linking the measure to Amendment 621, requiring a 2/3 vote for new or increased local spending unless the local entity approves or state funds or a local revenue source are provided; it defines shopping malls and sets an effective date for the law.

Who It Affects

• Courthouses (state, county, and municipal) will need to install and continuously operate cameras with audio and maintain recordings for 60 days.
• Shopping malls and the businesses within them will need to install at least one functional camera with audio, with recordings stored for 60 days.
• Local governments and taxpayers, because the bill creates a potential new local expenditure and requires a 2/3 vote unless approved or funded by the Legislature.

Key Provisions

• Cameras: Each courthouse, shopping mall, and business within a mall must have at least one functional camera with audio that operates at all times and records the primary entrance.
• Retention: All video and audio recordings must be stored and maintained for a minimum of 60 days after recording.
• Definition: 'Shopping mall' includes buildings with five or more establishments and connected access, under common ownership or control.
• Local funding trigger: The act would be considered a new or increased local expenditure under Amendment 621, requiring a 2/3 vote unless the local entity approves or the Legislature provides funds or a local revenue source.
• Effective date: The act takes effect on the first day of the third month after 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

Security Cameras