AL HB356

Increases criminal penalties for making a terrorist threat in the first degree from Class C felony to Class B felony, and for second degree from Class A misdemeanor to Class D felony.

Adds definition of "credible threat" as a threat made with intent and apparent ability to carry it out, or with intent to cause disruption of a school, church, or government activity.

Requires school principals to immediately notify law enforcement when a student's conduct warrants charges of making a terrorist threat in the first or second degree.

Mandates automatic one-year minimum suspension from school for students charged with terrorist threats in the first or second degree, with readmission only after criminal charges are disposed, psychiatric/psychological evaluation completed, and local board requirements satisfied.

Requires persons convicted or adjudicated of making a terrorist threat to pay restitution to affected property owners and to law enforcement and emergency response entities for investigation, prosecution, and emergency response costs.