Alabama: 2017 Legislative Session Convenes with a Pro-Gun Bill Introduced

Yesterday, February 7, the Alabama Legislature convened for its 2017 legislative session with the introduction of a bill which aims to protect and enhance your Second Amendment rights.  

Senate Bill 2, introduced by state Senator Phil Williams (R-10), would amend and expand Alabama’s existing state firearms preemption statutes to clarify that the state Legislature has the sole responsibility and authority to create regulations related to taxation and use of firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.  Further, this bill prohibits counties and municipalities from imposing user fees or other special fees related solely to the ownership or use of a firearm, ammunition, or firearm accessory or from imposing additional restrictions on the issuance of pistol permits.

State firearms preemption was enacted by the Alabama Legislature to avoid the possibility of a complex patchwork of regulations across the state which make it difficult for responsible firearm owners to ensure they are following the law.  The clarifications provided in SB 2 will help ensure that firearm and ammunition laws are consistent throughout Alabama. 

It is important that gun owners and sportsmen across The Yellowhammer State stay actively involved throughout 2017.  Your NRA-ILA will keep you updated on the status of important legislation in addition to providing a simple and convenient way to contact elected officials.  To help assure success in 2017, please continue to check www.NRAILA.org and your email inbox for alerts on the latest action items.