Education Vouchers
Governor Kay Ivey has proposed an education voucher program, but the details of its size are yet to be unveiled. The program aims to be sustainable, ensuring wise fiscal choices. However, last year’s legislation, which would have provided parents with $6,900 per child, faced criticism due to concerns that it would drain over $500 million from public education. Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility in this matter.
Gambling
Lottery and casino legislation will once again be introduced in Alabama. While the bill’s outlook remains uncertain, a group of House members is negotiating a proposed constitutional amendment. This amendment, if approved by voters, would authorize a state lottery and a limited number of casino sites. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter believes that many Alabamians are ready to vote on this constitutional amendment, as it would effectively close illegal gambling operations throughout the state. Alabama has not had a state lottery since 1999 when Governor Don Siegelman’s proposal failed. Previous attempts to pass gambling bills have faced opposition and disputes over casino licenses. Republican Senator Greg Albritton, who previously proposed legislation, predicts that if the gambling bill is not passed this year, it will likely be another generation before it is approached again.
Absentee Ballot Restrictions
Republican lawmakers are pushing to make it a crime to assist non-family members in voting by absentee ballot. Supporters of this change argue that it is necessary to combat voter fraud. However, opponents claim that it is an attempt to make it harder for people to vote. The proposed bill by Republican Senator Garlan Gudger would make it a misdemeanor offense to order, prefill, request, collect, or deliver an absentee ballot for someone who is not a household member or close family member. The penalty increases to a felony if the person is paid. Election officials and individuals who are blind, disabled, or unable to read are exempt from this provision. The bill will be discussed in committee on Wednesday.
Archives/Libraries
A Senate bill aims to replace the board that oversees the Alabama Department of Archives and History. Republican Senator Chris Elliott’s bill suggests appointing new members to the board, selected by the governor, lieutenant governor, and legislative leaders. This proposal comes after lawmakers expressed discontent with the department hosting a lecture on LGBTQ history. Another bill seeks to clarify that city and county officials, who appoint library board members, have the authority to remove a board member at any time. Both bills will be reviewed by the committee on Wednesday.
Criminal Justice
Several bills have been filed to reform Alabama’s criminal justice system or impose stricter penalties for certain offenses. In response to an international kidnapping hoax that originated in Alabama, Republican Senator April Weaver proposed legislation to make faking an abduction a felony offense. On the other hand, Democratic Representative Chris England of Tuscaloosa introduced a bill that would allow certain prisoners serving life sentences for robbery and other crimes under Alabama’s habitual offender law to be eligible for parole.
Other Bills
In addition to the aforementioned proposals, a pay raise for state teachers is expected to be proposed by the governor and lawmakers. Legislation to strengthen the state’s public records law will also be introduced. Furthermore, bills will aim to limit the power of the state health officer to order pandemic-related closures. However, this month, the board overseeing the Department of Public Health is expected to finalize rules that would require the governor’s approval for such closures.