Recently elected state Senator Matt Woods (R-Jasper) is quickly advancing new legislation to bolster protections for schools and public institutions in Alabama. After winning a special election for Senate District 5 in June, he introduced House Bill 7 (HB7), which aims to establish uniform protocols for reporting and addressing threats in schools across the state.

While he was working from home in Alabama in 2025, Woods had already proposed a similar bill to the state Senate.

“We need students and school staff focusing on learning instead of lockdowns,” Woods noted, emphasizing the serious nature of threats against schools and churches.

Law enforcement notification required

HB7 mandates that school principals must promptly notify law enforcement of any credible threats of violence that could disrupt activities in schools, churches, or government buildings. This measure is intended to create a swift and cohesive response to potential threats, no matter the school district or jurisdiction.

The bill responds to concerns about inconsistent handling of threats, particularly those made online or outside of standard school hours.

Mandatory suspension and evaluation for student offenders

If the individual making the threat is a student, HB7 stipulates a minimum one-year suspension from public schools. Students must also undergo a psychiatric or psychological evaluation and meet any other requirements set by the local school board before being allowed to return.

Tougher criminal penalties

HB7 seeks to impose harsher penalties for those charged with making terrorist threats.

– First-class terrorist threats would be elevated from a Class C felony to a Class B felony.
– Subsequent threats may be classified as a Class D felony in specific situations, like repeat offenses, while other cases could remain a Class A misdemeanor.

The goal of these modifications is to deter repeated offenses, enhance public safety, and give prosecutors stronger tools to address situations that require emergency responses.

Building on previous legislative efforts

HB7 shares much of its content with HB356, which Woods had introduced during the 2025 session. That previous bill included definitions regarding various provisions related to threats, reparation processes, and “prescribed shelters.” While HB7 focuses more on enforcement and responses from schools, there may be opportunities to revisit additional measures in the upcoming 2026 session.

The Alabama Legislature’s regular session for 2026 is scheduled to begin in January.