AL Political Reporter: “The Alabama Sheriffs Association, joined by the Association of County Commissions of Alabama and the Alabama Association of School Resource Officers, held a press conference outside the Alabama Statehouse Tuesday to voice their opposition to a slate of permitless carry — also known as “constitutional carry” — bills currently moving through the Legislature.
The crowd included Alabama county sheriffs, police chiefs, district attorneys and members of the ACCA.
Over the first few weeks of the regular session, several bills have emerged related to constitutional carry. House Bill 4, sponsored by state Rep. Shane Stringer, R-Citronelle, would allow Alabamians to carry a pistol without a permit. Senate Bill 1, sponsored by state Sen. Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, would repeal certain restrictions for individuals carrying a pistol in a motor vehicle or on certain properties, with or without a concealed pistol permit. Senate Bill 12, sponsored by state Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, would likewise repeal certain restrictions for those possessing a pistol in a motor vehicle or on certain properties with or without a pistol permit.
Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones described pistol permits as “a tool” that law enforcement has used throughout the state for years to apprehend criminals with illegal weapons.”