AL HB403

Amends Section 41-1-1 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to extend Alabama's territorial waters for marine resource management and protection seaward to a distance of three Marine Leagues.

Declares that inequitable disparities exist in territorial water boundaries among Gulf Coast States (Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama), resulting in economic and recreational losses to Alabama.

Establishes that Alabama's territorial waters and submerged lands shall include all territory within the boundaries described in the Act of Congress of March 2, 1819, plus all territory ceded to Alabama by later Congressional acts or interstate compacts and agreements.

Specifies that the act shall be liberally construed to effect the policy of placing Alabama on equal footing with other Gulf Coast States regarding marine resource jurisdiction.

Takes effect on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.