Project Say Something Stands Firm Against HB 224: Defending the Right to Protest

On March 19, 2025, the Alabama House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee convened to discuss House Bill 224 (HB 224), a controversial proposal that seeks to expand the definition of "obstructing governmental operations." The bill, introduced by Rep. Allen Treadaway (R-Morris), aims to criminalize individuals who intentionally approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder after being ordered to maintain distance, if such proximity impedes, threatens, or harasses the responder. Violations could result in penalties of up to one year in jail and fines reaching $6,000.

Camille Bennett, founder and director of Project Say Something, voiced strong opposition to the bill during the committee hearing. She argued that the bill's language is overly restrictive and could hinder lawful protests.​

"This bill makes protest impossible," said Bennett. "How can a public servant accurately measure 25 feet and carry around a bullhorn, instructing protestors to disperse in real-time?" 

Bennett also highlighted concerns about the bill's vagueness, noting that terms like "harass" and "obscene" are subjective and could be used to suppress free speech. She emphasized that such language grants excessive discretion to law enforcement, potentially leading to the criminalization of peaceful protestors.

Other committee members shared similar apprehensions. Rep. Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa) questioned whether someone standing at 24 feet and making an obscene gesture toward a first responder could be arrested under the proposed legislation. A representative from the District Attorney’s Association confirmed that such an individual could indeed face arrest. 

Rep. Thomas Jackson (D-District 68) echoed Bennett's concerns, stating that the bill "really eliminates protests, lawful protests." He also noted that the bill could have the unintended consequence of reducing accountability for police officers and protecting instances of police brutality from public scrutiny. 

Despite these concerns, the committee did not vote on HB 224 during the session. The bill remains under consideration, with potential amendments forthcoming to address the issues raised. Representative Treadaway indicated a willingness to collaborate with colleagues to refine the bill's language, aiming to balance the protection of first responders with the preservation of constitutional rights. ​

Call to Action: Oppose HB 224

Project Say Something urges community members to take a stand against HB 224. Here's how you can get involved:​

1. Join Our Email Advocacy Campaign: Use this link to send an email to the members of the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee expressing your opposition to HB 224. Emphasize the importance of protecting First Amendment rights and the dangers of vague legislative language.​

2. Spread the Word: Share information about HB 224 with your network. Encourage others to participate in advocacy efforts and stay informed about legislative developments.​

Together, we can protect the right to protest and ensure that our voices are heard. For more information and resources, visit Project Say Something's website.​

Note: This blog post references information from the following sources: https://yellowhammernews.com/alabama-house-committee-reviews-controversial-hb224-on-obstructing-governmental-operations/

https://www.al.com/politics/2025/03/swearing-at-alabama-police-could-soon-lead-to-year-in-jail-opponents-say-it-makes-protest-impossible.html