Legislature passes bill to extend police wiretapping powers

May 7, 2025 – MONTGOMERY, AL – The Alabama Senate passed legislation that would extend existing wiretapping powers and allow for interpreters.

House Bill 137 (HB137) is sponsored by State Representative Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville). It was carried in the Senate by State Senator Clyde Chambliss (R-Prattville).

"This bill extends the wiretapping and allows interpreters," explained Chambliss.

According to the synopsis, "Under existing law, the Attorney General may submit an application to a circuit court judge to intercept any wire or electronic communication if there is probable cause to believe an individual is committing, has committed, or is about to commit certain felony drug offenses. The request to intercept a wire or electronic communication is initiated by an investigative officer of the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency or the Attorney General's office. This bill would allow an interpreter to monitor a wire or electronic communication in certain circumstances. In 2022, the Legislature enacted the Agent Billy Clardy III Act which created a state wiretapping program. As part of that law, the entire act is set to repeal on February 1, 2026. This act would remove the repealer language, thereby keeping the act in effect indefinitely."

HB137 passed by a vote of 30 to 0. It has already passed the House and now goes to the governor for her consideration.