Legislative Summary

This week, lawmakers entered into the final stretch of the 2023 legislative session. After a two-day week, there is now only one final legislative day remaining to tie up unfinished business next week.

Days 28 and 29 were typical of the final days, with steady streams of debate and bill passage, last-minute committee meetings and conferences, as well as a good bit of hurry up and wait. There were 524 bills introduced in the House of Representatives this year and 352 bills introduced in the Senate.

Only one new bill was introduced this week, and the bills debated were all awaiting final passage. The bill increasing juror per diem and mileage was one of several pieces of legislation being pushed through committee to receive final passage this week.

Other bills receiving passage this week included one that makes changes to the law involving real property, another that relates to the Open Records Act, legislation addressing disputes with the board of adjustment, and finally, a bill that makes changes to administrative rule regulations.

In addition, both budgets were signed by Gov. Ivey, included in which is a cost of living adjustment, or COLA, for state employees as well as rebates for Alabamians. The long-awaited decrease of the sales tax on groceries also received final passage and is awaiting the governor’s signature.

There were local bills in Marion, Marshall, Lamar, Cullman, Shelby, Pickens, Limestone, and Blount counties to increase court costs. Many bills received final passage this week, so please refer to the legislative tracking for those bills of interest to your practice area.

As always, the Alabama State Bar encourages all members to be aware of legislation that may impact court costs and fees. Access to justice is a priority. Please be aware of advertisements that may be occurring for local bills and those that may already be filed to use the courts as a fundraiser for non-court entities. We encourage you to be informed and notify us as well.

LEGISLATIVE TRACKING

The Alabama State Bar provides legislative status reports concerning pending legislation that may be of interest to our members, with direct links to the actual legislation. The reports divide legislation into the following categories for your convenience: civil/general, court costs, criminal, domestic relations, elections ethics and government relations (EEGR), judicial, and tax.

You can find our comprehensive updated bill-tracking spreadsheet here.

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

• The House and Senate have both adjourned until Tuesday, June 6.