Alabama’s SB119 Tightens Firearm Possession Rules

Alabama is set to tighten its gun laws this fall. Senate Bill 119 (SB 119) took effect on October 1, 2025, expanding the categories of individuals barred from possessing firearms and imposing stricter penalties for certain violations.

Previously, Alabama law barred firearm possession for people convicted of violent crimes, misdemeanor domestic violence, or those under an active domestic abuse protection order. The revised legislation broadens these restrictions, now prohibiting anyone with a felony conviction from owning or possessing a gun, even if the felony wasn’t violent.

Alabama’s updated legislation also targets individuals awaiting trial. Under the new rules, anyone released after being charged with a violent crime or domestic violence faces a class C felony if they possess a firearm, even without a conviction. This penalty applies only if the person is ultimately found guilty of the original charge or lesser offense, unless the court decides to waive the restriction.

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In addition, the new law also increases the consequences for shooting into occupied structures or vehicles. The offense has been upgraded from a class B to a class A felony, the state’s highest level of criminal severity.

Click here to read more about SB119.