AL HB8

Creates new crime of aggravated child abuse of a child under age six, classified as a Class A felony.

Applies when a responsible person commits repeated acts of child abuse (Section 26-15-3 violations), violates child abuse laws while also violating a court order or injunction, or causes serious physical injury to a child under six.

Existing aggravated child abuse (without age restriction) remains a Class B felony; torture or willful abuse of a child under 18 remains a Class C felony.

Bill is exempted from Amendment 621 constitutional requirements regarding local expenditures because it defines a new crime.

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