LEGISLATIVE SUMMARY

The Alabama Legislature returned this week following Spring Break and has now entered the long stretch to complete the session. Lawmakers met for two legislative days, with Wednesday filled with committee meetings. Eighteen of the thirty constitutionally allowed legislative days have now been used. So far, 550 bills have been introduced in the House of Representatives and 299 in the Senate.

New legislation introduced this week covers a wide range of topics, including digital assets, deceptive trade practices and consumer protection, vaping and cannabis, and several health insurance-related bills. One proposal seeks to extend the appeal period in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights to the tax tribunal or circuit court. Another bill would establish the Alabama Justice Information Commission, which would help facilitate background checks.

This week, bills considered in Judiciary Committees addressed illegal immigration, health insurance, bail bond reform, human cloning prevention, the Senate’s accountability courts bill, and a proposal to raise the age of eligibility to run for judicial office from 70 to 75. Other notable bills in committee included measures related to cannabis regulation, pharmacy benefit manager fees, and legislation aimed at helping formerly incarcerated individuals return to the workforce.

Several bills advanced in a single chamber this week. The General Fund Budget passed the House and now moves to the Senate. The Education Budget is expected to move next week. A bill banning cell phones in schools, with certain exceptions for health-related needs, also passed the House and now heads to the Senate. Additionally, Governor Ivey signed the Paid Parental Leave Act, granting paid parental leave to state employees.

Numerous criminal justice-related bills are in progress. Please refer to the legislative tracking section below for a comprehensive list. Note that any miscellaneous legislation may be categorized under civil.

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. 8 at 2:00 p.m.
• The House has adjourned until Tuesday, Apr. 8 at 1:00 p.m.