Legislation to Enhance Transparency and Provide Parental Due Process Rights Introduced in Alabama

The Pacific Justice Institute – Center for Public Policy (PJI-CCP) is continuing its mission to protect parental rights through the introduction of HB 340 in Alabama by Representative Kenneth Paschal (R-District 73) [pictured right]. The bill, called the “Department of Human Resources Transparency and Due Process Rights Notification Act,” aims to safeguard the rights of parents and legal guardians during child welfare investigations.

Child welfare investigations carry one of the most extreme consequences imposed by the state – the potential termination of the relationship between a parent and child – yet existing law provides few procedural safeguards.  Numerous parents have reported feeling pressured – or even coerced - into unfavorable “agreements” due to social workers and investigators capitalizing on their lack of knowledge regarding their legal rights.

PJI-CCP worked with Rep. Paschal, DHR and other organizations and stakeholders on the bill’s language. 

Assisted Suicide Ban Act to Go Into Effect

By Margaret K. Dore

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

On May 4, 2017, Governor Kay Ivey approved "Alabama's Assisted Suicide Ban Act." The Act's legislative findings include that in almost every state, it is a crime to assist a suicide.

Per the Act, any person who deliberately assists another person to commit suicide is guilty of a Class C felony. Violators are also subject to liability for damages, actions for wrongful death and suspension or revocation of professional healthcare licenses.

The Act provides that it "shall become effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor."

To view a copy of the Act as enrolled, click here.

Legislature Passes Assisted Suicide Ban Act

Rep. Butler

During the 2017 legislative session, companion bills seeking to ban assisted suicide (SB 198 and HB 96) were introduced in the House and Senate.

HB 96, sponsored by Representative Mack Butler, was passed by both houses and sent to the the governor for signature.

To view the enrolled version, click here.