HB 477 aims to authorize non-profit agricultural organizations to offer health benefits directly to their members. This measure would allow such organizations to provide health coverage options, directly affecting their members and expanding avenues for access to benefits. Additionally, the bill includes a specific amendment that proposes a 1.6 percent per annum tax rate, though the full context detailing what this tax applies to is not provided in the available text.
HB 354 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 2022. This amendment would ensure that the compensation received by a district attorney cannot be diminished during their term of office. If approved by voters in a statewide election on May 26, 2026, this measure would protect the salaries and other payments for district attorneys throughout their six-year terms.
HB 437 establishes a shark alert system specifically for Baldwin and Mobile Counties. This system requires the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to implement it, with assistance from other state and local entities. The alert system is designed to notify the public of confirmed shark sightings within close proximity to a shoreline or coastline.
SB 301 allows the Lee County Revenue Commissioner to establish procedures for the electronic filing of business personal property tax returns. Starting October 1, 2025, the Commissioner may require electronic filing for businesses engaged in leasing personal property, those with $10,000 or more in personal property assets, or those using a third-party tax preparer. The Commissioner must provide training and assistance to taxpayers for these new procedures and can grant exemptions for good cause. This bill directly affects businesses in Lee County that own personal property subject to taxation.
SB 328 revises the compensation for the Judge of Probate in Jackson County. Starting October 1, 2025, the judge's annual salary will be set at $132,000, paid from the county's general fund. This new salary replaces all prior compensation, expense allowances, or fees for the position. Additionally, the judge will receive any uniform increases in compensation, such as cost-of-living adjustments, granted to all Jackson County employees after that date. The bill also repeals previous sections of law related to the judge's compensation.
SB 319 proposes establishing new court costs in Barbour County to fund a "Sheriff's Office Hazardous Duty Fund." This fund would provide hazardous duty payments to non-clerical employees of the Barbour County Sheriff's Office, excluding the sheriff. The new costs include a $25 fee for most civil, misdemeanor, and felony cases, and a $10 fee for small claims cases. This measure will only take effect if approved by a majority of Barbour County voters in a local referendum.
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.
