MONTGOMERY, Ala.– (WDNews) – A new Alabama law that tightens firearm possession rules and boosts penalties for gun-related crimes officially took effect on October 1.
Senate Bill 119 expands the list of individuals prohibited from owning or possessing firearms. Previously, state law only applied to those convicted of violent crimes, misdemeanor domestic violence offenses, or under an active protection order. The revised measure now includes anyone with a felony conviction — even if the crime was nonviolent or committed outside Alabama.
The law also extends restrictions to individuals awaiting trial. Anyone charged with a violent or domestic violence offense who possesses a firearm while released on bond can now be charged with a Class C felony. This penalty applies only if the person is ultimately convicted of the original or a lesser offense, unless waived by the court.
Lawmakers also increased penalties for crimes involving guns. Shooting into an occupied home or vehicle is now classified as a Class A felony — the most serious category under Alabama law — significantly raising potential prison sentences.
New rules aim to close loopholes and reduce gun violence statewide by strengthening accountability for offenders.
