Attorney General Steve Marshall has expressed approval following the Alabama Senate's passage of House Bill 82. This legislation aims to increase penalties for falsely reporting a crime to law enforcement.
Under current law, false reporting is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. However, HB 82 proposes elevating the offense to a Class C felony when it involves false reports that pose imminent danger to individuals or the public. Additionally, the bill allows the state to seek restitution from local, state, and federal authorities for costs incurred during investigations of false reports.
Marshall commented on past incidents where law enforcement resources were misused due to false claims. "Last summer, Alabama’s law enforcement around the state were exploited, and local communities terrorized, when an individual falsely reported being kidnapped," he stated. He further noted that such actions have significant financial implications and divert critical resources from genuine emergencies.
The bill was introduced by Representative Mike Shaw (R-Jefferson) and received unanimous support in both legislative chambers. Senator April Weaver (R-Brierfield) facilitated its progress through the Senate. The next step for HB 82 is consideration by the Governor for her signature.