We, the undersigned organizations, unite in our opposition to Alabama House Bill 4 (HB4), currently under consideration in the 2025 legislative session. This proposed legislation represents a significant threat to the freedoms of expression and access to information that are foundational to democratic society and our state's intellectual growth.

HB4 would amend Sections 13A-12-200.1 and 13A-12-200.10 of the Alabama Criminal Code, imposing restrictions that would criminalize librarians for providing access to a broad array of educational and informational materials. By redefining what constitutes "obscene" content and expanding the scope of material considered "harmful to minors," HB4 poses a grave risk to the autonomy of our public and school libraries and the professionals who staff them.

Concerns and Implications:

1. Vague Language and Overreach: The bill introduces excessively vague definitions that could lead to arbitrary enforcement and undue censorship, directly contradicting established principles of clarity and fairness in law.
2. Threat to Educational and Informational Access: By criminalizing certain aspects of librarianship, HB4 would deter library staff from fulfilling their role as educators and information providers, thereby limiting access to vital resources for our communities, especially students and marginalized groups.
3. Potential Violation of Constitutional Rights: The proposed changes challenge the protections afforded by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees the right to free speech and access to information.

As organizations dedicated to the preservation and advancement of civil liberties, civil rights, and democratic values, we urge lawmakers to consider the detrimental impacts of HB4. We call on our elected officials to oppose this bill and any other measures that threaten the intellectual freedom and educational integrity of Alabama's communities.

Sincerely,

Read Freely Alabama

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