HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — New year, new Alabama laws. Some of the laws passed in 2023 don't become active until 2024. Here's a look at some of the new news laws, and changes to existing laws, in the state.
Huntsville hands-free ordinance
Huntsvillle now a hands-free ordinance that is stricter than Alabama state law.
Under the new law, it is illegal to do any of the following while operating a motor vehicle:
- Use a wireless telecommunications device to write, send, read or otherwise engage in any text-based communication;
- Watch, record or capture photo or video;
- Engage in voice-based communication while holding a wireless telecommunications device; or
- Physically hold or otherwise support a wireless telecommunications device with any part of their body.
A wireless telecommunications device includes but is not limited to smartphones, cell phones, electronic readers or tablets, laptops or netbooks, and GPS devices.
What to know
In the first six months of 2024, the City will join HPD, Huntsville Fire & Rescue, HEMSI and Huntsville Hospital to educate the community about the ordinance without issuing citations. First responders will hand out prepared materials with information on the law to drivers during that time.
When the six-month grace period is over, drivers who violate the hands-free law may receive a citation issued by a Huntsville Police officer. The following fines will apply during a 24-month period:
- $50 for a first conviction;
- $100 for a second conviction; and
- $150 for a third conviction and/or community service.
Certain individuals are exempt from the ordinance, including emergency services professionals, those dialing or texting 911 to report an emergency or seek help, individuals who are using wireless telecommunication devices while legally parked, physicians responding to an emergency medical situation and more.
Read the law here.
Stricter boating laws
Boating violations are being reclassified as a criminal offenses classification and various criminal offenses are being reclassified a boating violations so that they can better be reported, tracked, and penalized.
Boating tickets will be treated like traffic tickets for fines, points, issuance, and administration of tickets.
Read the law here.
No taxes on overtime pay
In a big win for many hourly workers, overtime pay for than 40 hours worked per week will not be taxed, that is, the money will not be included in a person's gross income for income tax purposes. In the current law, the tax break lasts until June 30, 2025.
Read the law here.
Requirements for law enforcement officers to underdo training related to individuals with certain sensory needs or invisible disabilities
This law, known as the Cade Noah Act, requires law enforcement officers to complete one hour of training on interacting with individuals with sensory needs or invisible disabilities every other year. The training can be in-person or online.
Read the law here.