Legislation to Ban Glock Switches Gains Momentum Following Tragic Birmingham Shooting
Birmingham, AL – In the wake of a devastating mass shooting outside the Hush lounge that left four people dead and 17 others injured, Alabama lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are rallying around a bill aimed at banning devices that convert semi-automatic handguns to automatic fire, commonly known as Glock switches.
Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, chair of the Senate Rules Committee, expressed his support for the proposed legislation after the shooting, stating, “That brings it pretty close to home.” Law enforcement reports confirmed that the shooters used these trigger activators to unleash a barrage of gunfire into a crowded area.
The bill, known as HB26, is expected to be reintroduced in the upcoming 2025 legislative session and is spearheaded by Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery. Ensler, who has filed similar measures in the past, highlighted the urgent need for action, especially after the tragedy that unfolded in Birmingham. During the recent legislative session, the bill garnered some traction, passing the House with a vote of 60-38, but ultimately did not reach the Senate floor for a vote.
Support Across Party Lines
With the advocacy of law enforcement officials and local leaders, Ensler’s bill aims to provide a framework for prosecution at the state level. Under the proposed law, possessing a device intended to convert a firearm into a machine gun would be classified as a Class C felony, which could lead to a prison sentence of one to ten years.
“These conversions just make pistols so much more deadly and dangerous,” Ensler remarked. “We need to do what we can to protect and save lives.” He emphasized that while Glock switches are illegal under federal law, a state-level ban would give local prosecutors more tools to ensure accountability.
Community Reaction and Legislative Outlook
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin has joined the call for change, urging the legislature to provide law enforcement with the tools they need to bolster public safety. Meanwhile, several key legislative figures have weighed in on the proposal. Some Republicans have indicated they would support a narrow bill focused specifically on Glock switches, while others, like Sen. Larry Stutts, R-Sheffield, remain undecided and skeptical about the measure’s efficacy.
Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Josephine, noted, “I understand what mayors and law enforcement officials are asking for,” indicating a cautious openness to proposed legislation aimed at addressing the problem. Still, there are concerns among some lawmakers about the necessity of a new state law given existing federal regulations on Glock switches. Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, echoed this sentiment, stating he would review the bill but is skeptical about its necessity.
Law Enforcement Support
Support for Ensler’s bill stretches beyond party lines, with prominent law enforcement officials backing the initiative. Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr emphasized the importance of state legislation, arguing it would equip local law enforcement with resources to combat the growing threat posed by modified firearms. He stated, “To make a pistol, a regular gun, into basically a machine gun, we all see the dangers in that.” The need for significant action following the recent shooting incident has amplified calls for a legislative solution.
Ensler’s bill is poised to receive renewed attention in the upcoming 2025 session, especially with support from several Republican co-sponsors, all of whom have backgrounds in law enforcement. Their involvement may lend credibility and strengthen the bill’s chances of advancement through the House and Senate.
The Road Ahead
The path forward for the Glock switch ban remains uncertain, but the recent surge of incidents involving such devices has intensified discussions about public safety in Alabama. As community leaders and lawmakers continue to navigate this complex issue, Ensler remains hopeful, stating, “It’s simply a public safety measure.” The focus now rests on gathering enough bipartisan support to ensure the measure’s success in the coming session. With the stakes higher than ever, the community watches closely as this vital legislation takes shape.
