top of page
Search

HB 224: A Threat to Our Right to Protest and Hold Authorities Accountable

In Alabama, the right to peacefully protest and hold public officials accountable is fundamental to our democracy. However, House Bill 224 (HB 224) poses a significant threat to these constitutional rights, particularly impacting Black communities and marginalized groups. At Project Say Something, we are committed to educating and mobilizing the public against legislation that undermines civil liberties.​


Understanding HB 224

Sponsored by Rep. Allen Treadaway, HB 224 seeks to amend existing laws related to obstructing governmental operations. The bill introduces provisions that would criminalize individuals who:​


  • Proximity to First Responders: Intentionally approach or remain within 100 feet of a first responder engaged in official duties after being instructed not to approach or to vacate the area.​

  • Perceived Impediment: Are perceived as impeding, threatening, or harassing the first responder in such situations.​


Violations could result in criminal charges, including Class A misdemeanors. ​


Implications for Our Communities

HB 224 raises several concerns that could disproportionately affect Black Alabamians and other marginalized groups:​


  • Erosion of First Amendment Rights: The bill's broad language grants law enforcement excessive discretion to determine what constitutes "impeding" or "harassing" behavior. This ambiguity can lead to the suppression of lawful protests and infringe upon freedom of speech and assembly.​

  • Criminalization of Accountability: By restricting proximity to first responders, the bill hampers the public's ability to observe and document law enforcement activities, a crucial mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency.

  • Disproportionate Impact: Historically, laws that expand police authority have been enforced disproportionately against Black communities. HB 224 risks perpetuating this trend, leading to increased criminalization of marginalized individuals.​


Civil rights organizations, including the ACLU of Alabama, have voiced strong opposition to HB 224, emphasizing its potential to infringe upon constitutional rights and its vague provisions that could lead to arbitrary enforcement.


Call to Action: Make Your Voice Heard

The House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee is scheduled to discuss HB 224 on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Room 206 of the Alabama State House in Montgomery. This meeting is a critical opportunity for concerned citizens to express their opposition to the bill.​


Here's how you can take action:

  1. Participate in Our Email Advocacy Campaign: Project Say Something is organizing an email campaign directed at the members of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee. Your voice is vital in urging committee members to oppose HB 224.​

  2. Attend the Committee Meeting: If you are able, attend the meeting to demonstrate collective opposition to HB 224. Your presence sends a powerful message to legislators about the community's commitment to protecting civil liberties.​

  3. Spread the Word: Share information about HB 224 and its implications with your networks. Encourage others to participate in the advocacy campaign and attend the committee meeting.​

  4. Stay Informed: Follow Project Say Something on Instagram and Facebook, or sign up for our newsletter for updates on HB 224 and other legislative developments affecting our communities.​


HB 224 represents a significant encroachment on our rights to protest, observe, and hold public officials accountable. It is imperative that we stand together to oppose this bill and safeguard the freedoms that are foundational to a just and equitable society.​


Join us in taking action against HB 224. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that Alabama remains a place where the voices of all its citizens are heard and respected.​

For more information about Project Say Something's work, please visit www.projectsaysomething.org.



Comments

bottom of page