LEGISLATIVE SUMMARY

The final weeks of the 2025 legislative session have begun. While activity has ramped up in some areas, the introduction of new bills has slowed. This was a two-day session week, with Wednesday packed full of committee meetings. So far, 23 of the 30 constitutionally allowed session days are complete. A total of 601 bills have been introduced in the House of Representatives and 333 in the Senate.

Most bills introduced this week were local in nature. Several involved the compensation of probate judges, which is determined by each county. One bill related to marriage contracts was also introduced; it addresses the effective date of a marriage and includes some religious exemptions.

A few bills of broader interest were debated in committee this week. These included proposals to increase oversight of the Board of Pardons and Paroles, along with a measure to expand the number of board members. Revisions to Aniah’s Law were also discussed, focusing on the scheduling of hearings, the inclusion of additional crimes, and updates to the process.

Other legislation making progress included revisions to real estate sales procedures and expanded workers’ compensation benefits for teachers. Bills addressing the requirement to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and play the Star-Spangled Banner in schools also advanced, as did measures related to health insurance.

One key piece of legislation—the Accountability Courts bill, championed by Chief Justice Stewart—was signed into law by Governor Ivey this week. This bill brings drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans courts under a unified framework and supports judicial circuits that have not yet established these courts in making these vital services available in their communities.

There are many criminal justice-related bills under consideration. Please refer to the tracking below for a complete list. Any miscellaneous legislation may be found under the civil category.

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. The reports divide legislation into the following categories for your convenience: civil/general, court costs, criminal, domestic relations, elections ethics, and government relations (EEGR), judiciary, and tax.

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

Look Up A Specific Bill Here

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

The 2025 regular session of the Alabama Legislature will continue as follows:

• The Senate has adjourned until Tuesday, Apr. 22 at 2:00 p.m.
• The House has adjourned until Tuesday, Apr. 22 at 1:00 p.m.