SB 129 requires developers of AI tools that create images, videos, or audiovisual content to clearly disclose when output is AI-generated. This applies to all AI systems sold or used in Alabama, including those licensed to third parties, and mandates disclosures that are visible, permanent, and unavoidable in the same format as the content. Violations would be treated as deceptive trade practices under Alabama law, allowing both the Attorney General and affected individuals to seek legal action. The bill takes effect on October 1, 2026, with a 30-day cure period before enforcement actions.
HB 259 requires any entity issuing "payment stablecoins" (digital currencies designed to maintain stable value for payments) in Alabama to obtain a license from the Alabama Securities Commission. It prohibits unlicensed issuance or sale of such stablecoins starting in 2028, directly affecting stablecoin issuers and government contractors who may receive payments in these tokens. The bill authorizes Alabama state and local agencies to use licensed stablecoins for paying vendors and contractors for goods/services, mandating clear disclosures to vendors before contracts involving stablecoin payments are signed. Violations could trigger civil or criminal penalties, and the Commission will enforce the law while aligning with federal regulations under the GENIUS Act.
HB 265 creates criminal penalties for unauthorized use of DNA or genetic data in Alabama. It defines three levels of offenses: selling DNA without permission (Class C felony), submitting DNA for testing or disclosing genetic data without consent (Class D felony), and collecting DNA without consent or hacking systems (Class A misdemeanor). The law applies to individuals and entities handling DNA samples or genetic data, but excludes law enforcement use, court-ordered disclosures, genetic testing companies following existing rules, and de-identified data. It requires explicit consent for DNA use and prohibits unauthorized sharing or analysis, with exceptions for research at educational institutions. The bill takes effect October 1, 2026, if passed.
HB 219, the Access & Responsible Digital Safety Act, requires app stores (like Apple App Store or Google Play) to verify user ages when accounts are created and provide age information to app developers. It mandates that app developers must offer different experiences for minors versus adults, block minors from accessing restricted content without parental consent, and stop advertising to children. Parents gain tools to manage their children's app access, and app stores must share age data with developers only for safety purposes. Violations could trigger civil penalties enforced by the Attorney General, while app stores making good-faith efforts face limited liability. The bill directly affects app stores, developers, and parents of minors using mobile applications.
SB 230 modifies Alabama's campaign finance rules to allow campaign funds to cover specific security costs for candidates, elected officials, and their immediate families or staff. It permits using contributions for cybersecurity services (like removing personal data from data brokers), home security devices (locks, cameras, alarms - excluding property value improvements), and security personnel. The bill explicitly defines "security expenses" to prevent misuse of funds for non-security purposes. This change applies directly to political campaigns and officeholders seeking to protect themselves or their close associates. The bill is currently pending in the Alabama House Judiciary Committee.
HB 174 requires video game manufacturers selling 25+ copies in Alabama to ensure games receive an age rating from the ESRB or a similar organization before sale. Manufacturers must display the rating visibly on physical packaging or at point-of-sale, and provide detailed rating explanations on a consumer-accessible website. Violations would be treated as deceptive trade practices under Alabama law, subjecting manufacturers to existing penalties. The law takes effect October 1, 2026, directly affecting game sellers operating in the state.
Tags
Consumer Protection
HB 329 requires all Alabama public K-12 students to complete an approved computer science course to graduate, starting with the 2032 graduating class. The bill expands the definition of computer science to include AI and algorithmic processes, and establishes standards for approved courses that must focus on creating technology, not just using it. Approved computer science credits can count toward math, science, or career education graduation requirements without increasing the total credit count. School districts must implement phased course offerings: high schools by 2020-2021, middle schools by 2021-2022, and elementary schools by 2022-2023. The State Department of Education will develop course standards and maintain an approved course list.
HB 325 requires businesses using AI chatbots in commercial interactions to clearly tell consumers at the start of and periodically during conversations that they are communicating with a computer, not a human. This applies directly to companies offering goods or services online through AI chatbots that might make consumers believe they are talking to a person. Violating this rule would be considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice, allowing consumers to sue for up to $1,000 per violation or seek injunctive relief. The Alabama Attorney General can also enforce the law by seeking civil penalties of up to $5 million for violations.
HB 327 is a consumer protection bill prohibiting businesses from using a person's voice or image in a digital replica for commercial purposes without their written consent. It creates a private right for individuals to sue if their likeness is used without authorization, while allowing exceptions for news, commentary, satire, and short, non-commercial uses. The law also establishes that rights to control digital replicas last 10 years after a person's death (with possible 5-year renewals) but cannot exceed 50 years total. This directly affects individuals whose likenesses might be replicated and businesses creating or using such digital representations.
SB 199 restricts certain adult sex offenders convicted of child-related offenses from using post office boxes or electronic devices with internet access (like phones or tablets), as determined by their parole or probation officer. It requires these offenders to complete sex offender treatment - including periodic polygraph exams - as a condition of release, with costs based on their ability to pay. Violating these restrictions or treatment requirements is punishable by a Class C felony. The bill also authorizes the Board of Pardons and Paroles to create rules for implementing these provisions.
