SB301 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Will BarfootSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Firearms, sentencing requirements established, certain offenders excluded from being eligible for certain correctional programs, Sec. 13A-11-72.2 added.

Summary

SB301 creates a new firearm-related sentencing rule that imposes minimum prison terms for using a firearm in certain violent crimes and bars offenders from many correctional-program options.

What This Bill Does

Adds a new section (13A-11-72.2) that requires minimum prison terms when a firearm is used during a crime of violence, a Class A or Class B violent felony, or assault in the second degree. Sets minimum terms: 5 years (basic), 7 years if the firearm was brandished, 10 years if discharged, 15 years if a fully automatic weapon was involved, and at least 20 years for a second or subsequent violation. The sentence runs consecutively with other sentences and is not eligible for probation, any portion of community corrections on the enhanced time, early release programs, or other programs that change incarceration timing or location.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who are convicted of a crime of violence or violent offense (as defined) where a firearm was used, and who would be subject to the new minimum sentencing rules.
• The Alabama corrections system and related programs, since the enhanced portion of these sentences cannot be served under probation, community corrections, early release, or similar arrangements.

Key Provisions

• Enactment of Section 13A-11-72.2 establishing minimum sentences for firearm use in specified violent offenses, with detailed thresholds (5, 7, 10, 15 years) and a 20-year minimum for second/subsequent offenses.
• The specified sentences must run consecutively to other sentences and are ineligible for probation, community corrections on the enhanced portion, early-release programs, or any sentencing structures that alter incarceration timing or location.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.
• Constitutional funding note: the bill would require local funds, but is excluded from local-funding approval requirements because it defines a new crime or amends the existing crime definitions.

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

Subjects

Firearms