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AL HB312
Bill
Status
5/2/2019
Primary Sponsor
Prince Chestnut
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AI Summary
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Amends Alabama Code Section 13A-6-21 to add a new subsection (8) establishing assault in the second degree when a person intentionally causes physical injury to a journalist during or as a result of performing their journalistic duties.
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Defines "journalist" as an employee, independent contractor, or agent of a news entity that disseminates information through newspapers, websites, television, radio, or other news media formats, and engages in newsgathering to investigate events and disseminate news to the public.
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Provides an affirmative defense if the journalist initially and physically impedes the person's freedom of movement, or if the journalist impedes law enforcement or first responders from carrying out duties at an investigation or accident scene.
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Classifies assault in the second degree as a Class C felony.
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Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.
Legislative Description
Crime of assault, second degree, journalist, intent to cause physical injury to a journalist during the performance of their duties causing physical injury, Sec. 13A-6-21 am'd.
Crimes and Offenses
Last Action
Pending third reading on day 27 Favorable from Judiciary
5/29/2019