HB284 Summary

• Creates the "Rowe-Scott Act" establishing female genital mutilation as a Class B felony in Alabama.

• Criminalizes knowingly circumcising, excising, or infibulating the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris of a female minor.

• Makes it illegal for parents, guardians, or custodians to allow such procedures on female minors and prohibits transporting minors out of state for this purpose.

• Exempts medically necessary surgical procedures performed by licensed physicians in hospitals when a second physician concurs (except in emergencies), and procedures related to labor or childbirth.

• Specifies that custom, ritual, religious practice, or consent of the minor or parents is not a valid defense to prosecution.