Montgomery, AL – Kay Ivey has signed two pieces of legislation into law aimed at strengthening public safety measures and providing support for the families of law enforcement officers.
House Bill 98 establishes a new scholarship program for dependents of law enforcement officers, while Senate Bill 233 increases penalties for individuals who attempt to elude law enforcement, particularly in situations involving vehicles.
According to Governor Ivey, public safety remained a central focus during the 2026 Regular Session, with SB233 identified as a legislative priority earlier this year.
“Too often when criminals attempt to flee law enforcement, they put the safety of innocent bystanders, officers and even themselves at great risk,” Ivey said. “To counter these often-deadly offenses, penalties for those who recklessly evade law enforcement must be strengthened.”
SB233, sponsored in the Senate by Lance Bell and carried in the House by Reed Ingram, enhances penalties for attempting to elude law enforcement. The law elevates the base offense from a misdemeanor to a felony when a vehicle is used.
The legislation also introduces stricter penalties for aggravating circumstances, including cases involving children in the vehicle, collisions with law enforcement vehicles, or incidents occurring while the offender is on pretrial release. Additionally, it establishes mandatory jail time for repeat offenders.
Senator Bell said the measure sends a clear message regarding dangerous attempts to evade law enforcement.
“By imposing tougher penalties – particularly for repeat offenders – we are sending a clear message that this dangerous behavior will not be tolerated,” Bell said.
Representative Ingram noted that the legislation is intended to hold individuals accountable while improving safety for both officers and the public.
“Public safety is our top priority, and the signing of SB233 is a major step in keeping Alabama families safe,” Ingram said.
Previously, attempting to elude law enforcement was generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with limited felony enhancements tied to specific actions. The new law addresses those limitations by expanding penalties and accounting for more high-risk scenarios.
The enhanced penalties under SB233 are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.
In addition to the public safety measure, House Bill 98 creates a scholarship program aimed at supporting the children of law enforcement officers. The initiative builds on prior efforts included in the state’s Safe Alabama legislative package.
Governor Ivey said the scholarship program recognizes the sacrifices made by law enforcement families.
“Our law enforcement put it all on the line every day they go to work, and so do their families,” Ivey said. “I am proud to provide these long-serving law enforcement families support for their children’s education.”
Nathaniel Ledbetter also expressed support for the scholarship initiative, describing it as a long-overdue measure to assist law enforcement families across the state.
The two bills reflect ongoing legislative efforts to address public safety concerns while expanding resources available to those connected to law enforcement service.
