HB 432 Summary

• Amends Section 13A-3-23 of the Alabama Code to add the "Trayvon Martin exception," prohibiting a person from using physical force (including deadly force) if they initially pursued another person engaged in lawful activity in a public place and that pursuit resulted in a confrontation.

• Provides immunity from criminal prosecution and civil action for persons who use justified force under the law, unless the force is determined to be unlawful.

• Grants immunity to innocent bystanders who use force to protect themselves from injury or harm during a confrontation between other persons, unless the force is determined unlawful.

• Requires law enforcement agencies to use standard procedures when investigating use of force claims and prohibits arrest unless probable cause exists that the force used was unlawful.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.