House bill limits public access to 911 calls

BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Alabama House passed a bill Tuesday that would restrict the public's access to 911 calls. It would require a court order for their release.

The president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association calls the vote unconstitutional and unfair to journalists.

"It should be open record," said Sharon Tinsley, "As broadcasters we are concerned about public record, open government, and transparency in government."

Sen. Hinton Mitchem introduced the bill in the Senate. He said it protects victims' rights. He said a written transcript of the 911 call can be released, and that should provide sufficient information to reporters.

"I just would not want my daughter that had been molested and called 911, to hear the audio of that call," said Sen. Mitchem, "I think it is invading their privacy to go back and play a tape of her screaming and crying or whatever. That would add more to the trauma for the individual or family."

The bill passed the house on a 70-24 vote and now goes to the Senate. Sen. Mitchem said he hopes to vote on it in soon.