Alabama Bills

HJR 50 is a resolution that officially recognizes April 17, 2025, as "Buckets of Smiles Day" in the State of Alabama. It encourages residents to observe this day to raise awareness about children with cancer and the need for better treatment options.

Senate Bill 305, titled the Renewing Alabama's Investment in Student Excellence (RAISE) Act, establishes a new program to provide additional funding for public K-12 schools across Alabama. This funding is specifically designed to address the educational needs of students and improve academic outcomes. The bill creates the RAISE Fund to distribute these resources, requiring local education agencies to submit student data and accountability reports on how the funds are used. Additionally, it mandates the State Department of Education to develop a unified application system to streamline the process for schools to apply for and report on all state and federal funding programs. The act also includes mechanisms for review committees and an accountability board to monitor the program's effectiveness and progress.

Senate Joint Resolution 85 (SJR 85) commends the Cook Museum of Natural Science for its educational contributions to residents and students in North Alabama. The resolution also officially designates the museum to serve as the North Alabama STEM Center, partnering with schools in the region.

HB 128 continues the operation of the Board of Nursing until October 1, 2029, under the state's sunset law. This bill directly affects the Board of Nursing and its ability to regulate licensed nurses. A key provision modifies the appointment process for one at-large member of the board, specifying that the Governor will appoint this individual.

SJR 79 is a commemorative resolution that officially recognizes May 4-10, 2025, as National Small Business Week. It commends small business owners in Alabama for their contributions and encourages residents to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and economic importance of small businesses.

SJR 78 is a Senate Joint Resolution that reaffirms Alabama's declaration as a "State of Character," a declaration previously made in multiple years. The resolution appeals to various partners and leaders across schools, businesses, homes, and community groups to collaborate in developing and implementing character-building strategies.

HB 186 is an appropriations bill that allocates funds from the State General Fund for the operations of state executive, legislative, and judicial agencies, as well as other government functions, debt service, and capital projects for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. The bill increases the overall appropriated amounts. Specifically, it provides an additional $425,000 for a Transportation Pilot Program, which is designated to support SAFE, Mary Hill Family Services Center, and Circle of Care Center for Families.

SJR 83 is a resolution that commends the Alabama Center for the Arts and the Alabama Arts Hall of Fame for their contributions to the arts in Alabama. It officially designates the Alabama Center for the Arts as the host and site for the Alabama Arts Hall of Fame.

HB 456 authorizes the sheriff in Clarke County to collect fees for certain services. This bill specifically adds individuals applying for a pistol permit to the list of those who may be charged these fees. Conversely, it exempts the district attorney and grand jury from paying these fees when requesting services related to law enforcement, investigatory, or prosecutorial functions. The act aims to clarify the sheriff's authority to collect fees and establish specific exemptions.

HJR 274 is a joint resolution that commends James H. "Jimmy" Sanford for his induction into the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame. It recognizes his leadership, service, and contributions to the cotton industry, including his work on farm policy and agricultural research funding.

SJR 82 is a commemorative resolution that commends the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) on its 50th anniversary. It recognizes IFDC's contributions to global agricultural sustainability, soil health, crop productivity, and food security since its founding in 1974. The resolution expresses tribute and congratulations to the organization.

HJR 266 is a resolution that designates November 5th through November 11th each year as "Veterans Week" in the State of Alabama. It calls upon all Alabama residents to observe this period with appropriate programs and events celebrating and thanking veterans.