AL HB153

Creates a new Class C felony for making a false statement to a law enforcement officer during a criminal investigation of a Class A or B felony, including falsifying facts, making materially false statements, or using false documents.

Exempts false denials of guilt given in response to law enforcement questioning from prosecution under this statute.

Requires law enforcement officers to provide a specific warning before interviewing a person or requesting a written statement, informing them that knowingly false statements during a felony investigation are subject to criminal prosecution.

Defines "criminal investigation" as an investigation into an alleged Class A or B misdemeanor or felony by a law enforcement officer, and "law enforcement officer" as an on-duty state, county, or municipal officer with arrest authority.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor, and is excluded from local funding requirements under Alabama Constitutional Amendment 621 because it defines a new crime.