AL HB224

Amends Alabama Code Sections 13A-10-1 and 13A-10-2 to expand the crime of obstructing governmental operations to include interference with first responders.

Adds new definition of "first responder" as defined under Section 11-98-1 and creates new definition of "harass" as engaging in conduct with intent to cause substantial emotional distress with no legitimate purpose.

Creates new criminal violation when a person intentionally approaches or remains within 100 feet of a first responder engaged in lawful government function after being ordered to leave, with intent to impede duties, threaten with physical harm, or harass the responder.

Maintains obstructing governmental operations as a Class A misdemeanor and preserves existing exception that the statute does not apply to obstruction of the making of an arrest.

Effective date October 1, 2025.