On Tuesday night, the Alabama House of Representatives passed two public safety bills that Republican lawmakers claim are central to their efforts to address violent crime.

These bills, sponsored by state Sen. Will Burfoot (R-Pike Road)—SB118 and SB119—are part of a broader initiative to reform Alabama’s bail laws and impose stricter limitations on firearm possession for violent offenders.

SB118 introduces a constitutional amendment that expands the list of offenses for which judges can deny bail.

Currently, only those convicted of capital murder can be detained without bail. If voters approve this amendment in the 2026 primary, judges will be able to hold individuals without bail for charges such as attempted murder, first-degree trickery, rape, trafficking, serious child abuse, or home invasion offenses.

SB119, which is necessary for implementing these amendments, will make various changes to the Alabama Code in accordance with the proposed constitutional updates.

This legislation aims to increase penalties for discharging firearms into occupied buildings, elevating it to a Class A felony. Additionally, it creates a new Class C felony for anyone who possesses firearms while facing violent charges. It also modifies the Probation and Parole Acts to allow revocation for firearm possession violations or short-term confinement.

Furthermore, SB119 broadens the group of individuals barred from owning firearms, including those with multiple felony convictions and those subject to aggressive protective orders linked to domestic violence.

If ratified, SB118 will be placed before Alabama voters.

Supporters, including Gov. Kay Ivey and Attorney General Steve Marshall, argue that these measures are essential for restoring public trust in the judicial system and for ensuring that law enforcement and court systems can effectively combat violent crime.