AL HB420

Upgrades the penalty for discharging a firearm into an occupied school bus or school building from a Class B felony to a Class A felony

Removes the existing exemption that protected individuals under 19 years of age from prosecution under this statute

Maintains existing penalties: Class C felony for shooting into an unoccupied school bus/building, Class B felony for discharging a firearm on school property during school hours/activities, and Class C felony for other circumstances on school property

Preserves exemptions for justified use of physical force (self-defense), organized competitions, school-sanctioned events, and 501(c)(3) group performances involving firearms

Effective date: October 1, 2026; passed Alabama House 98-0 with 4 abstentions on March 5, 2026