Alabama Bill Mandates Police Staffing, State Oversight

0:00Alabama lawmakers just advanced the bill to enforce minimum police staffing in Montgomery and Huntsville. The House Public Safety Committee passed at Wednesday, mandating at least 1.9 full-time officers per 1,000 residents, cities get five years to comply, or the state steps in with oversight. It cleared the Senate on Tuesday and heads to the full house now, which is four days left in the 2020 succession. Uncompliant spots must hit yearly goals, or the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency takes control. Attorney General Steve Marshall blasted Montgomery leaders online, saying they've ignored their police shortage for too long. He made it clear public safety can't wait, and the state will force the issue if needed. This target city is dragging their feet on hiring, with the AG able to bill them for any takeover costs. It's all about ensuring enough boots on the ground where it counts. As the clock ticks down, this bill could reshape local policing, keeping the pressure on for real change before session ends.

1:00I'm Cory with the story, and you've been listening to Birmingham News today, AI-powered local news.