HB 24 modifies the Volunteer Rescue Squad Tuition Reimbursement Program. It expands the types of educational institutions eligible to offer medical services certification programs for tuition reimbursement. The bill directs the Alabama Department of Public Health to establish a monetary cap on tuition costs reimbursed for students completing programs through regional EMS agencies, matching the cap for the Alabama Fire College. Additionally, it requires the Department of Public Health to adopt rules for credentialing and accrediting private companies and instructors that teach on behalf of regional EMS agencies, ensuring equal standards.
SB 87 aims to revise the powers of the Board of Midwifery, directly affecting licensed midwives and their permitted scope of practice. The bill amends specific lines of existing law to introduce a new prohibition. This change states, "A licensed midwife is prohibited from providing any" in relation to a mother's choice of licensed medical practitioner. This provision outlines a new restriction on the services midwives can offer.
HB 265 amends Alabama law regarding the crime of resisting arrest and introduces enhanced penalties. While resisting arrest remains a Class A misdemeanor, this bill establishes felony charges for specific circumstances. It becomes a Class D felony if a person brandishes a deadly weapon or causes physical injury to another individual through active resistance. The charge escalates to a Class C felony if a deadly weapon is used or attempted to be used, or if the resistance results in serious physical injury to another individual. These changes will take effect on October 1, 2025.
HB 611 prohibits internet service providers, cell phone service providers, content delivery networks, physical data centers, and payment providers from facilitating online access to or payment for abortion-producing drugs for delivery within the state. It requires internet and cell phone providers to block websites known to offer these drugs, and the Attorney General is authorized to monitor the internet for such sites. The bill establishes criminal penalties for violations by providers and those who offer the drugs. Additionally, it creates a civil cause of action for wrongful death of an aborted child against entities involved in providing these drugs. The Attorney General can also pursue civil actions, seeking injunctions and fines, with a portion of the collected fines supporting Alabama Pregnancy Resource Centers.
Senate Bill 298 proposes to alter and extend the official boundary lines of the City of Florence in Lauderdale County. The bill specifically adds a designated parcel of land, described by its geographic coordinates and including a portion of Gresham Road, into the city's corporate limits. This change would bring the specified territory under the jurisdiction of the City of Florence. A map detailing the exact area to be added is available for public inspection at the Lauderdale County Judge of Probate's office. If passed, the act would become effective on October 1, 2025.
HB 612 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 2022. Currently, the state constitution prohibits the Legislature from reviving any legal right or remedy that has expired due to a lapse of time or statute. This bill would amend the constitution to specifically allow the Legislature to revive time-barred rights or remedies related to child sexual abuse. If approved by voters, this change would grant the Legislature the authority to pass laws that could enable individuals who experienced child sexual abuse to pursue legal action even if the standard time limits have passed.
HB 610 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the Alabama Legislature to establish a state public bank. This bank would serve as a depository for all state government funds and allow the state to receive deposits from and issue loans to state and local governmental entities. The bill mandates that the Legislature establish a commission or designate a state agency to govern and operate the bank. It also outlines that the bank would have the power to borrow money and issue bonds and notes.
House Resolution 292 is a commemorative resolution that commends Gail Chaffin Kelley for her 54 years of contributions to education and her community. It specifically recognizes her achievements and dedication on the occasion of her retirement.
HR 293 is a resolution to honor Judge Calvin Williams for his dedication and support to the Dresses for Pink organization. This organization provides support services and resources to individuals affected by cancer.
HB 607, known as the Rural Connectivity and Innovation Act, aims to expand high-speed broadband access in underserved farming communities. It establishes a state-funded grant program, managed by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), allocating $50 million annually for broadband infrastructure projects in these areas. Additionally, the bill provides an individual state income tax credit of up to $10,000 for farmers who adopt broadband-enabled technologies, with a statewide annual cap of $2 million. These measures are designed to promote rural economic development and agricultural innovation.
SB 128 proposes changes to the compensation for the Sheriff of Calhoun County. Beginning June 1, 2025, the Sheriff would receive an additional annual expense allowance of $13,966. Subsequently, starting January 18, 2027, the Sheriff's base annual salary would be set at $114,290. This new salary would replace all other previous expense allowances or forms of compensation for the position.
HB 570 relates specifically to Pike County, Alabama, and amends the existing law regarding pistol permit fees. The bill establishes new fees for permits to carry a pistol, setting them at $20 for one year or $100 for five years. It further specifies that half of each collected fee will go to the county treasury, while the remaining half will be deposited into the Sheriff's Fund, to be used exclusively for law enforcement purposes by the Sheriff of Pike County.
