SB279 Alabama 2024 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Merika ColemanSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2024

Title

Crimes & offenses, prohibits law enforcement from using the hog-tie position

Summary

SB279 would ban the four-point restraint (hog-tie) used by police, require agencies to prohibit it in policies, and establish penalties for violations.

What This Bill Does

The bill prohibits law enforcement officers from using the four-point restraint to detain or restrain someone, and from placing someone in a face-down position that could restrict oxygen or blood flow to the head or neck. It requires every law enforcement agency to add a prohibition against the four-point restraint into its policies and procedures. If a violation occurs, the offense is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, and the law takes effect on October 1, 2024.

Who It Affects

• Law enforcement officers and agents in Alabama (cannot use four-point restraint or place individuals face-down; may face criminal penalties for violations)
• Law enforcement agencies in Alabama (must revise policies and procedures to prohibit four-point restraint)

Key Provisions

• Prohibits the use of the four-point restraint (hog-tie) to detain, restrain, or transport an individual
• Prohibits placing an individual in a face-down position that restricts oxygen or blood flow to the head or neck
• Requires each law enforcement agency to include a prohibition against the four-point restraint in its policies and procedures
• Violations are punishable as Class A misdemeanors
• Effective date: October 1, 2024
• Defines terms: four-point restraint, law enforcement agency, and law enforcement officer

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 & Offenses