HB227 Summary

• Replaces Alabama's ethics code with new Chapter 25B (Alabama Ethics Act), repealing the previous Chapter 25 and reorganizing ethics regulations for public servants, candidates, and lobbyists effective June 1, 2025.

• Creates new criminal offense of "using public office for pecuniary benefit" with penalties ranging from Class A misdemeanor (up to $2,500) to Class B felony ($10,000+), and upgrades bribery to Class B felony.

• Establishes stricter gift restrictions including prohibitions on gifts from "prohibited sources" (lobbyists, contractors, regulated entities), with carve-outs for educational/economic development functions and hospitality events.

• Restructures State Ethics Commission with revised appointment process, mandatory training requirements for public servants within 30-90 days of service, and formal/informal advisory opinion procedures.

• Expands conflict of interest provisions and "revolving door" restrictions (2-year post-employment ban on lobbying former governmental bodies), and requires expanded financial disclosures through Statements of Economic Interests.