AL SB118

Establishes the Alabama Background Check Service operated by ALEA, allowing employers, licensing agencies, nonprofits, housing authorities, and educational entities to obtain criminal background checks on individuals for noncriminal justice purposes

Authorizes law enforcement officers to use approved biometric identification devices (fingerprints, palm prints, iris scans) to identify individuals by accessing state and federal biometric repositories

Creates the Alabama Rap Back Program enabling participating entities to receive ongoing notifications when enrolled individuals (caregivers, licensees, volunteers) are arrested or convicted of offenses, with annual fees up to $12 per enrolled person

Sets background check fees not to exceed $30 per report, with ALEA authorized to contract with third-party vendors and deposit all fees into the Public Safety Fund

Establishes misuse of a background check report as a Class B misdemeanor, including unauthorized use or dissemination of records or conducting checks without required consent; effective October 1, 2026