AL HB358

Requires agents of hostile foreign principals and foreign-supported political organizations engaged in political activity in Alabama to register with the Secretary of State within 10 days of becoming an agent, with updates every 90 days

Designates four hostile foreign countries: North Korea, Iran, China, and Russia; defines hostile foreign principals to include their governments, political parties, nonresident aliens, and entities at least 20% owned by these countries

Registration must include detailed financial disclosures covering contributions received, money spent on political activities, and political contributions made within the preceding 60 days

Civil penalties of up to $10,000 for failure to timely file required statements; willful or repeat violations carry penalties between $10,000 and $200,000 per violation

Appeals of civil penalties may be filed within 21 days to the State Ethics Commission, which may reduce or set aside penalties upon showing of good cause; effective date October 1, 2026