HB 116 Summary

• Amends Section 13A-6-21 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to establish assault in the second degree when a person intentionally causes physical injury to a journalist during the performance of the journalist's duties.

• Defines "journalist" as an employee, independent contractor, or agent of a news entity that disseminates news through newspapers, websites, news programs, radio, television, or motion pictures, and engages in newsgathering with primary intent to investigate events and disseminate public information.

• Provides an affirmative defense if the journalist initially and physically impedes the person's freedom of movement or impedes law enforcement or first responders from carrying out duties at an investigation or accident scene.

• Designates assault in the second degree as a Class C felony.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.