HR 314 is a ceremonial resolution by the House of Representatives that mourns the death and celebrates the life of Reverend Dr. William McKinley Norwood, Sr. It offers a tribute to his extensive service as a pastor and community leader, and expresses heartfelt sympathy to his family.
HJR 289 creates the Study Commission on the Sale of Naming Rights to State-Owned Land, Properties, and Buildings. This commission is tasked with evaluating the potential for the state to generate revenue by selling naming rights to its properties. It will examine the economic and fiscal impacts, how revenue would be managed, and any potential environmental considerations. Composed of legislative members, state officials, and appointed experts, the commission must submit a report with legislative recommendations to the Legislature by the fifth day of the 2026 Regular Session.
HB 526 modifies the allowed uses and distribution of funds from the Alabama 21st Century Fund. It establishes that the Alabama 21st Century Authority must maintain a specific debt service reserve. Funds exceeding this reserve can be used for defined project costs and to pay debt service on certain bonds. Additionally, the bill authorizes a one-time transfer of $5,000,000 from the fund to the Alabama Department of Commerce for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. These funds are designated for establishing international offices, enhancing rural development strategies, and covering related operational and personnel costs.
Senate Resolution 81 (SR 81) establishes a special order calendar for the twenty-fifth legislative day, specifying a list of bills to be considered with priority. This procedural resolution dictates the order of business for the Alabama Senate on that particular day, ensuring certain legislative measures take precedence over the regular agenda.
Senate Bill 262 permits pari-mutuel wagering on simulcast past events and live horse and dog races exclusively within Lowndes County. The bill establishes conditions for this wagering and implements a tax on the revenue generated. Funds collected from this tax are designated for distribution to several programs. Specifically, portions are allocated to Education, the Black Belt Unincorporated Wastewater Program (BBUWP), and a local council.
HR 283 is a resolution that celebrates the 2025 Forte Family Reunion, which is scheduled to take place in Eufaula, Alabama, from July 11 to 13. The resolution extends joyful felicitations and best wishes to the Forte Family for a successful gathering.
HB 271 modifies the ReEngage Alabama Grant Program, which provides financial aid for adult learners returning to college. The bill lowers the minimum age requirement for an "adult learner" from 25 to 22 years old, expanding who can qualify for the program. It also refines the definition of an "eligible student" to include individuals pursuing their first associate or baccalaureate degree, or their first baccalaureate degree after a two-year break following an associate degree. This program offers grants up to $3,000 per semester for universities and $1,500 for community colleges to help cover tuition and fees for qualified students.
HR 288 is a resolution commending Steve Swofford for his 40-year career and impact as CEO of Alabama Credit Union. It recognizes his contributions to the credit union movement at state, national, and international levels.
HB 443 extends the expiration date of the Underground Damage Prevention Program from January 1, 2027, to January 1, 2035. This program administers the One-Call Notification System, which requires operators of underground facilities to participate and utilize its services. The system helps prevent damage to buried utility lines during excavation or demolition activities. By extending the program, the bill aims to continue safeguarding against injury and loss of life, and to protect utility services for the general public.
HB 226 extends the eligibility for state ad valorem tax homestead exemptions to unremarried widows or widowers. This bill specifies that the exemption applies to the homestead claimed by the deceased spouse at the time of their death. To qualify for the exemption, the unremarried widow or widower's name must also be on the property deed. This measure aims to allow qualifying surviving unremarried spouses to continue receiving homestead tax benefits under these conditions.
SB 18 amends Alabama law concerning child support and paternity proceedings. The bill clarifies that courts may direct fathers to pay for the mother's reasonable pregnancy and confinement expenses, as well as the father's portion of the mother's reasonable expenses incurred in preparation for the child's birth. It also updates provisions regarding the assessment and payment of court fees, attorney's fees, and genetic testing costs in paternity cases, allowing for payment from a state fund in certain circumstances. Additionally, the bill mandates that courts immediately determine support payments, including medical support, once paternity is established.
House Bill 462 requires the Alabama Department of Public Health to recognize education, training, and experience gained through military service towards qualifying for an emergency medical services personnel (EMSP) license. This means individuals with relevant military backgrounds can use their acquired skills to meet state licensure requirements, provided they also pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians examination. The bill directs the department to establish rules for implementing this credit system. It primarily affects military veterans and active service members seeking to become EMS personnel in Alabama.
