HB43 Alabama 2025 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jim HillRepresentative

Republican

Session

2025 Regular Session

Title

Criminal procedure; split sentence authorized for 30 year sentence

Summary

HB43 would let judges split sentences for certain felonies up to 30 years and add accountability court options for those on probation or incarcerated.

What This Bill Does

It broadens split-sentence authority from 20 years to 30 years for Class A-D felonies (excluding sex offenses involving a child). It sets three ranges of confinement with the remainder suspended and probation: up to 15 years (up to 3 years confinement); >15 to 20 years (3-12 years confinement); >20 to 30 years (minimum 10 years confinement). The court cannot suspend or alter the minimum period in the >20-30 range, and probation can be added or modified by the court. It also adds accountability court options (drug, veterans, mental health, theft courts) for defendants who are incarcerated or on probation, and requires certain probation conditions like fines, restitution, and support.

Who It Affects

• Defendants convicted of Class A-D felonies (excluding sex offenses involving a child) who receive a sentence up to 30 years, who may now have their terms split with possible probation instead of serving the full term upfront.
• Defendants who are incarcerated or on probation for these offenses, who may be ordered to complete an accountability court and meet other probation conditions.

Key Provisions

• Extends split-sentence authority from 20 years to 30 years for Class A-D felonies (excluding certain sex offenses involving a child).
• Defines three ranges with corresponding confinement and suspension: up to 15 years (up to 3 years confinement), >15 to 20 years (3-12 years confinement), >20 to 30 years (minimum 10 years confinement); remainder suspended with probation; minimum confinement in the last tier cannot be served in a county jail.
• Allows the court to suspend the minimum portion of confinement and place the defendant on probation, with authority to revoke or modify probation.
• Allows or requires accountability court participation (drug court, veterans court, mental health court, theft court) during incarceration or probation as part of conditions.
• Requires payment of fines, restitution, and support, and discharge of penalties upon fulfillment of probation.
• Maintains reporting requirements to probation authorities and restricts parole or certain incentive-time deductions during the minimum confinement period.
• For misdemeanors or municipal ordinances, permits suspended portions and probation up to two years.
• Effective date: October 1, 2025.

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

Subjects

Criminal Procedure