In an unprecedented move, a bipartisan coalition of Alabama lawmakers, mayors, and law enforcement officials united behind a public safety package that targets the proliferation of gun conversion devices. While federal law already prohibits such devices, which transform semi-automatic weapons into machine guns, the state lacked legislation specifically addressing their possession. The newly proposed package aims to close this loophole, empowering state prosecutors to charge individuals for possessing these conversion devices.
A bipartisan coalition of mayors, lawmakers, and law enforcement in Alabama expressed support for a public safety package on Thursday that aims to ban devices capable of converting semi-automatic weapons into machine guns. This rare consensus on gun restrictions marks a significant shift from the years of conflict surrounding efforts to curb gun violence in the state.
While federal law already prohibits conversion devices that accelerate the firing rate of semi-automatic weapons, there is currently no state-level legislation barring their possession. One of the bills included in the package would empower state prosecutors to charge individuals for possessing these conversion devices. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia have implemented similar laws, according to the Giffords Law Center. Birmingham's Mayor Randall Woodfin had urged state lawmakers to address these devices following the city's third quadruple homicide last year. 'Even if there are some things we may not agree with, today is a major deal,' the mayor stated Wednesday after local law enforcement and leaders from both legislative chambers endorsed Republican Governor Kay Ivey's public safety package.On the same day, the Alabama Senate's judicial committee advanced two bills introduced by both Democrats and Republicans, each proposing to classify the possession of a machine gun conversion device as a felony. Law enforcement agencies believe these devices, commonly referred to as Glock switches, dramatically escalate gun violence fatalities. They can be fabricated on a 3D printer in under an hour or purchased online from overseas vendors for less than $30. Police suspect a conversion device was utilized in a September shooting that claimed the lives of four individuals outside a Birmingham lounge. At least one person possessing a machine gun conversion device was apprehended in November following a shooting on Tuskegee University's campus, which resulted in one fatality and 16 injuries. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor described the moment of political unity as a reflection of the urgency surrounding the issue — both in mitigating gun violence and safeguarding police officers. 'I think it's because they've realized that a bullet doesn't know if you're a Democrat or Republican,' Taylor remarked.The package encompasses bills that would increase penalties for the illegal possession of firearms, enhance sentencing for discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle or dwelling, expand the list of offenses where bail denial is permissible, and strengthen legal protections for law enforcement officers facing accusations of excessive force. Democratic representatives lauded the conversion device ban and a bill providing scholarships for the children of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. However, some voiced 'deep concern' regarding other aspects of the governor's package. Representative Thomas Jackson stated that while he acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement, he believed police officers already benefit from enhanced legal protections that make convictions relatively infrequent. 'Being a law enforcement officer doesn't mean that you're above the law. In fact, due to the power that comes along with the duties of our police, officers should be held in even higher standard of ethics and behavior with accountability,' Jackson asserted
GUN CONTROL ALABAMA LEGISLATION CONVERSION DEVICES PUBLIC SAFETY BI-PARTISANSHIP GUN VIOLENCE
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Lawmakers target crime in 2025 legislative session: ‘A safe Alabama is a secure future for Alabama’Gov. Kay Ivey, who gives her eighth state of the state address Tuesday night, said public safety is her top priority this year.
Read more »
Alabama Lawmakers Reach Bipartisan Consensus on Public Safety PackageA bipartisan coalition of mayors, lawmakers, and law enforcement officials in Alabama have endorsed a public safety package that includes a ban on devices that convert semi-automatic weapons into machine guns. This rare consensus reflects the urgency of addressing gun violence and protecting law enforcement officers.
Read more »
Alabama Governor Ivey Addresses State, Lawmakers React to ProposalsGovernor Kay Ivey delivered her State of the State address, highlighting education advancements, economic growth, and crime-fighting initiatives. Lawmakers, both Republican and Democrat, shared mixed reactions to her proposals, particularly those concerning enhanced legal protections for law enforcement and the use of cell phones in schools.
Read more »
Alabama Lawmakers Seek to Make Juneteenth a Permanent State HolidayState Representatives Juandalynn Givan and Rick Rehm have prefiled bills to establish Juneteenth as a permanent state holiday in Alabama. The bills would also allow state employees to choose between observing Jefferson Davis' birthday or Juneteenth.
Read more »
Alabama State comes up short against Alabama A&MMontgomery, Alabama
Read more »
Alabama State defeats Alabama A&M 69-65Led by Amarr Knox's 14 points, the Alabama State Hornets defeated the Alabama A&M Bulldogs 69-65. The Hornets are now 7-11 with the win and the Bulldogs dropped to 6-12.
Read more »