Alabama lawmakers are voting on a bill that would redefine rioting and add more criminal consequences.
The Alabama House approved legislation that would create a new definition of a riot. The bill moving to the State Senate would also impose tougher penalties for people who participate in one. The bill would mandate a minimum 30-day jail sentence without parole for anyone charged with rioting. It would also allow for civil penalties connected to damages and injuries caused during a riot.
Republicans supporting the bill say it’s needed to subdue violent protests that have caused injuries and property damage. But critics argued it would have a chilling effect on protests. They also argue loose definition of rioting could allow an officer to make arrests based on presumptions, and prejudices, about the people involved.