Alabama Legislative Events

Alabama Specialty Public High Schools Consortium Encouraged

The Alabama State Senate enacted SJR84, a Joint Resolution encouraging the formation of a consortium among Alabama specialty public high schools. The resolution was sponsored by Senator Arthur Orr and became law on April 2, 2026. As a joint resolution, this instrument expresses legislative intent and policy direction without creating binding legal obligations.

Houston County Schools Commendation

The Alabama House of Representatives enacted HJR207 on April 1, 2026, commending Houston County Schools for achievements and contributions. Sponsored by Rep. Paul Lee, this House Joint Resolution is ceremonial in nature and carries no regulatory requirements or compliance obligations.

Alabama House commends Representative Terri Collins

The Alabama House of Representatives enacted HJR196, a joint resolution commending Representative Terri Collins. This is an honorary resolution expressing recognition of her legislative service during the 2026 Regular Session. The resolution passed with voice vote on April 1, 2026, following standard legislative procedures through both chambers.

Probate Judge Compensation Revised - Montgomery County

Alabama SB295 was enacted on April 2, 2026, revising compensation for probate judges in Montgomery County. The bill passed unanimously in both chambers (Senate 30-0, House 51-0) during the 2026 Regular Session. Sponsored by Sen. Will Barfoot, the local legislation modifies salary provisions for Montgomery County probate judges.

Agriculture Authority Board Director Succession and Purchasing Requirements

Alabama Senate Bill 288 was enacted, requiring directors on agriculture authority boards to appoint their own successors. The bill also mandates that these authorities make purchases through a national or regional governmental cooperative purchasing program authorized under state law. The legislation passed with strong bipartisan support in both chambers.

Lieutenant Governor Vacancy Election Requirement

Alabama enacted SB271, a constitutional amendment establishing that Lieutenant Governor vacancies must be filled by election under certain circumstances. Sponsored by Senator Sam Givhan, the bill passed both chambers with unanimous support and was signed into law on April 1, 2026.

Enhanced Penalties for Eluding Police

Alabama SB233 was signed into law on April 2, 2026, enhancing penalties for eluding or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support in both chambers (Senate 34-0, House 85-12). Sponsored by Senator Lance Bell, the legislation amends existing criminal statutes to increase consequences for fleeing from police.

Alabama Space Authority renamed Alabama Aerospace Authority; membership and duties expanded

Alabama enacted SB228 on March 4, 2026, renaming the Alabama Space Authority to the Alabama Aerospace Authority. The legislation expands the authority's membership and broadens its duties and powers. The bill passed both chambers unanimously before receiving the Governor's signature.

Single Statewide Inspection Requirement for Food Trucks and Mobile Food Vendors

Alabama Governor signed SB197 into law on April 2, 2026, establishing a single statewide inspection system for food trucks and mobile food vendors. The bill requires one health inspection and one fire inspection to apply across all municipalities in the state, eliminating the previous patchwork of local inspection requirements. The legislation passed unanimously in both chambers with Yea votes of 27-0 in the Senate and 104-0 in the House.

Indecent Exposure Crimes and Inpatient Custodial Sexual Misconduct

Alabama Governor signed SB203 into law on April 1, 2026, expanding the state's criminal code to cover additional victims in indecent exposure and sex crime statutes. The bill establishes the new crime of inpatient custodial sexual misconduct and modifies domestic violence offenses to include additional victim categories. The legislation passed the Senate 34-0 and the House 103-0 with multiple amendments.