Several new gun laws went into effect in Alabama today.
State Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, who sponsored the legislation, said the laws, in most cases, have been authorized federally, but they had to be put on the books in Alabama for local law enforcement to enforce them.
"(This bill) expands it to where the feds already are and hopefully will provide further protection for those in domestic violence situations or prevent those with a mental illness from legally purchasing a weapon," he said.
Here's a list of the new laws:
- A minor is now allowed to carry a pistol (with the permission of a parent or legal guardian who is permitted to carry a weapon) for use in a firearm or hunter safety course or firing range; for organized competition with a non-profit group; or for hunting where permitted with a parent or guardian; in Armed Services or National Armed; and in self-defense at own residence
- The following offenders are now prohibited from possessing a firearm: anyone convicted of committing or attempting to commit a crime of violence; those convicted on a misdemeanor domestic violence offense; anyone with an order of protection against them; anyone of unsound mind; drug addicts or habitual drunkards.
- Probate judges must now report to law enforcement every person they involuntarily commit for mental illness. A person who has lost the right to obtain a firearm for mental health reasons under the new law can appeal and have that right reinstated.
- Judges must now report to law enforcement anyone found not guilty for mental disease or defect.
- Alabama law already prohibits a person from carrying a firearm into a facility posted with guards or having security features, but there was no penalty for doing so. Now, the offense is considered a Class C misdemeanor.
- Employees can now keep a firearm in their privately-owned vehicle while parked or operated in a public or private parking area.
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