MONTGOMERY, AL — Kay Ivey on Monday continued her emphasis on public safety, calling again for the passage of legislation that would increase penalties for individuals who attempt to elude law enforcement.
The proposal, which the governor identified as a legislative priority during her recent State of the State address, focuses on strengthening consequences for offenders and addressing repeat violations.
“Government at all levels should always prioritize public safety. And we can thank the men and women in blue for enforcing our laws,” Ivey said during her address. “Unfortunately, some criminals attempt to elude their authority. There are repeat offenders and in the worst cases, there has even been loss of life. It is time we crack down on that reckless, criminal behavior and pass a bill led by Rep. Reed Ingram and Sen. Lance Bell.”
Under current Alabama law, attempting to elude law enforcement is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with felony charges applied only under specific circumstances. Existing statutes also do not include enhanced penalties for certain aggravating factors or establish baseline sentencing for repeat offenders.
The governor is backing companion measures, House Bill 37 and Senate Bill 233, sponsored by Reed Ingram and Lance Bell, respectively. The legislation proposes elevating the base offense to a felony and increasing penalties in cases involving heightened risk.
According to bill supporters, the measures would impose stricter consequences for behaviors such as fleeing law enforcement with children in the vehicle, striking law enforcement vehicles, or committing the offense while on pretrial release. The legislation would also introduce mandatory jail time for repeat offenders.
“This legislation will not only crack down on reckless criminals trying to elude our law enforcement but also enhance the safety of Alabama’s citizens by dissuading this careless criminal act,” Bell said, adding that stricter penalties are needed to address risks posed to motorists, pedestrians, and officers.
Ingram also emphasized the intent of the legislation to deter dangerous behavior. “Fleeing from law enforcement is not a harmless mistake – it is a dangerous decision that puts officers and innocent families at serious risk,” he said. “By elevating these offenses and establishing mandatory minimums for repeat violations, we are sending a clear message.”
During the 2025 Regular Session, Ivey identified public safety as her top priority through her Safe Alabama legislative package. While progress has been made, the governor indicated that additional measures remain necessary.
“In Alabama, we enforce the law, and I look forward to this bill reaching my desk,” Ivey said.
Public safety initiatives are expected to remain a central focus for the governor throughout her final year in office per Govoner Ivey.
