HB501 Summary

• Establishes a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 25 years for a Class A felony involving a firearm or deadly weapon if the defendant was wearing a bulletproof vest, body armor, or other ballistic protection at the time of commission.

• Establishes a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 5 years for a Class B or C felony involving a firearm or deadly weapon if the defendant was wearing ballistic protection at the time of commission.

• Amends Section 13A-5-6 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to add these new sentencing provisions and updates cross-references to criminal sex offense statutes.

• Excludes the bill from Amendment 621 constitutional requirements regarding local government expenditures because it defines or amends the definition of a crime.

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