Alabama Sanctuary Policy Preemption Law: Statewide Immigration Policy Rules (2026)

Full Breakdown

The Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act, codified at Code of Alabama Title 31 Chapter 13 and originally enacted as HB 56 in 2011, prohibits state and local government entities from adopting sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Officials and agencies must comply with detainer requests and may not restrict communication with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Citizens may sue local governments to enforce compliance, and officials face removal from office for willful violations. Several provisions were narrowed by federal court rulings, but the sanctuary prohibition remains operative statewide.

Violations & Penalties

Local sanctuary policies are void; officials may face removal and localities can be sued by Alabama citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Alabama cities adopt sanctuary policies?

No. The Beason-Hammon Act in Title 31 Chapter 13 prohibits sanctuary policies and requires cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

What happens if a local agency violates the law?

Citizens can sue to enforce the statute, and willfully noncompliant officials may be removed from office under Title 31 Chapter 13.

Sources

Source

Alabama Sanctuary City Prohibition Under HB 56