Rep. Frances Holk-Jones

Maddy summaryHJR 220 is a joint resolution expressing the Alabama Legislature's concern regarding the availability and affordability of commercial property insurance in coastal Alabama. It acknowledges findings from the Alabama Coastal Commercial Insurance Joint Interim Study Commission, which highlighted risks to local businesses and the tourism industry. The resolution calls for the Legislature and Governor to further explore potential solutions, including state-supported reinsurance programs, targeted tax credits for risk mitigation, and a review of insurance industry practices to ensure the region's long-term economic and insurance stability.

Maddy summaryHB 322 requires Alabama healthcare providers to assess new mothers for postpartum depression during routine postnatal care and mandates the Alabama Department of Public Health to create plain-language educational materials about the condition for both providers and new parents. The bill directly affects new mothers (through mandatory screening), healthcare providers (who must conduct assessments), and hospitals (which can distribute the materials). Key provisions include developing materials on signs/symptoms and treatment resources, requiring assessment as part of standard care, and protecting providers from liability for following these guidelines. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, and does not change existing medical standards or liability laws.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 144) commemorates Opal Steele Blackwell's 100th birthday on March 29, 2025. It honors her life and contributions as a Foley, Alabama resident, including her work with the Foley Civic League, her role as a bridge Life Master, and her long-standing membership at St. Peter's Episcopal Church. The Alabama House of Representatives formally celebrates her legacy of community service, family dedication, and faith. The resolution includes a ceremonial presentation of the document to Ms. Blackwell. As a commemorative measure, it does not create any new laws or affect policy.

Maddy summaryHB 420 allows Baldwin County municipalities with school boards to request a share of the special privilege license tax proceeds currently allocated to the Baldwin County Board of Education. Municipalities must pass a resolution to join this program and would receive a portion of the funds based on their average daily student enrollment compared to other local school districts. This bill changes the distribution method for existing tax revenue, directing a portion to participating municipalities starting October 1, 2025, without altering the tax itself.

Maddy summaryHB 421 allows municipalities in Baldwin County with school boards to opt into sharing in the proceeds from a special privilege license tax. If a municipality passes a resolution, it will receive a proportional share of the tax funds currently distributed to Baldwin County's school board, based on tax collected within its boundaries. The bill adds this option to Alabama law and takes effect October 1, 2025. It directly affects Baldwin County municipalities that choose to participate in this tax-sharing arrangement.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Alabama Coastal Commercial Insurance Joint Interim Study Commission to investigate rising wind insurance costs for commercial and multifamily properties along the state's coast. The commission will be composed of state officials, legislators from Baldwin and Mobile counties, insurance industry representatives, and university experts, with a mandate to compare Alabama's insurance rates against neighboring states and analyze the financial risks of underinsured properties. Its primary task is to explore potential programs that could help reduce insurance burdens and risk exposure while ensuring any new initiatives are financially sustainable. The group is required to submit its findings and any recommended legislation to the Legislature by January 1, 2025, after which the commission will dissolve.

Baldwin County

Baldwin County

Baldwin County

Baldwin County