The Alabama Big 10 Mayors on Wednesday applauded Alabama voters for approving Aniah’s Law on the primary election ballot, calling the measure a critical step toward strengthening public safety and protecting communities across the state.
Named in honor of Aniah Blanchard, the constitutional amendment ratified by voters gives judges the ability to deny bond to individuals charged with certain violent offenses—including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and shooting into occupied buildings and vehicles—when those individuals are determined to pose a significant threat to the public.
“The people of Alabama sent a clear message that violent criminals should not be automatically returned to our streets while awaiting trial,” the Alabama Big 10 Mayors said. “This constitutional amendment gives judges the tools they need to better protect innocent families and prevent dangerous offenders from committing additional crimes.”
The mayors noted that cities across Alabama have worked closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, victims’ advocates and state leaders to support Aniah’s Law, emphasizing that public safety remains a top priority for local governments.
“Aniah’s Law is about protecting victims, supporting law enforcement and ensuring our justice system has the flexibility to keep repeat violent offenders behind bars when necessary,” the statement said. “We are grateful to Alabama voters for recognizing the importance of this measure and for standing with communities across our state.”
The Alabama Big 10 Mayors also thanked members of the Alabama Legislature, Governor Kay Ivey and advocates who worked to place the amendment before voters.
“The passage of this Aniah’s Law expansion represents a meaningful victory for public safety in Alabama,” the mayors said. “Today, Alabama took an important step toward making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”
The constitutional amendment was Amendment 1 on the May 19 primary election ballot. It was approved by 82 percent of voters.
Representing the 10 largest cities in Alabama, the Big 10 Mayors said it “works to find constructive solutions to the state’s and their cities’ most pressing problems.” The group includes Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Decatur Mayor Kent Lawrence, Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba, Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison Mayor Ranae Bartlett, Mobile Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed and Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox.
