SB217 Summary

• Establishes the crime of "unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure" as a Class A misdemeanor in Alabama.

• Defines critical infrastructure to include chemical manufacturing facilities, refineries, electrical power generating facilities, transmission towers, substations, communication equipment, water treatment facilities, natural gas terminals, and transportation facilities such as ports and railroads.

• Makes it unlawful to intentionally enter critical infrastructure without authority when enclosed by physical barriers or marked with no trespassing signs, use fraudulent identification documents to enter, remain after being forbidden, or enter restricted areas without authorization.

• Preserves the right to lawful assembly and peaceful petition for redress of grievances, including labor disputes between employers and employees.

• Effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval, passed by the Senate on March 1, 2016 with a vote of 29-0.