Senate Bill 49 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Merika ColemanSenator

Democrat

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Crimes and offenses; use of taser prohibited on restrained individual, penalties for violations

Summary

SB49 would prohibit a law enforcement officer from using a taser on a restrained or unable to resist person and set penalties for violations, effective October 1, 2026.

What This Bill Does

The bill makes it illegal for a law enforcement officer to use a taser on a person who is restrained or unable to resist, including when the person is in handcuffs, body cuffs, or other restraints. It defines taser as any device designed to emit a charge or shock to temporarily incapacitate a person. It defines law enforcement officer as described in Section 36-21-40 of the Alabama Code. A violation is a Class C felony and would carry criminal penalties.

Who It Affects

• Law enforcement officers and their agencies, who could face Class C felony charges for unlawful taser use on restrained individuals.
• People who are restrained by law enforcement, who are protected from taser use while restrained.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits use of tasers on restrained or unable to resist individuals, including when in handcuffs, body cuffs, or other restraints.
• Defines taser as any device designed to emit a charge or shock to temporarily incapacitate a person.
• Defines law enforcement officer as in Section 36-21-40 of the Alabama Code.
• Violations are Class C felonies and carry penalties, with the act taking effect October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes & Offenses