Alabama Constitution Section 56 - Immunity of legislators.
Alabama Constitution – Section 56
Title: Immunity of Legislators
Text of Section 56:
"Senators and representatives shall, in all cases except treason, felony, or breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest during their attendance at the sessions of their respective houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any speech or debate in either house they shall not be questioned in any other place."
Explanation:
Section 56 provides legislative immunity to members of the Alabama Legislature (Senators and Representatives) under certain circumstances.
🔹 Key Protections:
Freedom from Arrest (Limited):
Legislators cannot be arrested while:
Attending a legislative session
Traveling to or from the session
Exceptions: This protection does not apply if the legislator is charged with:
Treason
Felony
Breach of the peace (i.e., public disturbances or violence)
Freedom of Speech in Legislature:
Legislators cannot be questioned elsewhere (like in court) for statements made during speeches or debates in the House or Senate chambers.
✅ In Summary:
Legislators are generally immune from arrest during official duties, except for serious crimes.
They enjoy absolute freedom of speech in the legislature and cannot be sued or prosecuted for what they say during debates.
This provision is meant to protect the independence and functioning of the legislative process by shielding members from harassment or intimidation through legal action. Let me know if you want a comparison with the U.S. Constitution’s Speech or Debate Clause.
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