AL HB537

Establishes that female genital mutilation (circumcision, excision, mutilation, or infibulation of the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris) of a female under age 19 is a Class B felony.

Makes it a Class B felony for any individual to knowingly commit the act, and for parents, legal guardians, or those with custody to knowingly consent to or permit another to commit the act.

Criminalizes knowingly removing or causing the removal of a female under age 19 from the state for the purpose of committing female genital mutilation.

Exempts medically necessary surgical procedures performed by a licensed medical practitioner in a licensed health care facility, and procedures performed for medical purposes during labor or immediately after birth.

Specifies that religious, cultural, customary, or ritual justifications and consent of the victim or guardians are not valid defenses to prosecution.