HB8 Summary

• Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article I, Section 26 of the Alabama Constitution establishing that every citizen has a fundamental right to bear arms in defense of themselves and the state.

• Requires any restriction on the right to bear arms to be subject to strict scrutiny standard of review.

• Prohibits citizens from being compelled by any international treaty or international law to take actions that prohibit, limit, or otherwise interfere with their fundamental right to keep and bear arms, provided such treaty or law violates the United States Constitution.

• Amendment becomes effective upon approval by a majority of qualified electors voting in a statewide election conducted according to constitutional procedures.

• Bill passed the House on April 30, 2013 and the Senate on May 20, 2013.