State Rep. Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa) has introduced another bill to increase restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon in the state of Alabama.
Alabama law currently prohibits a person from carrying a weapon “with intent to do bodily harm” on school property, with an exception provided for police and if the person has a concealed weapons permit. Violation of the law is a class C felony.
England’s House Bill 28 (HB28) would remove the section exempting pistol permit owners from being allowed to carry firearms on school property.
Permitless carry, also called constitutional carry, went into effect in January. The law was hotly debated during the 2022 regular legislative session.
House Bill 272 (HB272) by State Rep. Shane Stringer (R–Citronelle) became the spearhead bill for permitless carry that passed the legislature. It was signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey in March 2022.
The law removed a previous requirement for eligible Alabamians to purchase a permit before carrying a concealed weapon on their person or vehicle.
The law was amended several times throughout the legislative process, with many provisions added to address opponents’ concerns both in and outside the legislature.
One aspect of Alabama’s law left untouched in HB272 was the requirement to possess a permit to carry a firearm on public school property.
During the 2022 legislative session, lawmakers who supported HB272 told 1819 News they originally intended to remove the permit requirement for schools but left it intact to prevent rocking the political boat.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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