News Post

Legislative Summary

On Tuesday, Jan. 18, the Alabama Legislature gaveled in for day three of the 2022 Legislative Session. Just a few moments later, they adjourned until Feb. 1, 2022, so they could begin a Special Session called by Governor Ivey. The Special Session began on Wednesday, Jan. 19, and its purpose is to determine the best use and distribution of the approximately $772 million Alabama has or will receive of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money.

The Legislature will spend the next two weeks or so working on legislation involving the ARPA funds which are being designated for broadband, healthcare and other infrastructure costs.

Legislators will return to the Regular Session on Tuesday, Feb. 1, to continue with the normal business of session. With the additional bills filed on Tuesday before adjournment, there have been 174 bills introduced in the House of Representatives and 120 bills introduced in the Senate. One, which is especially of interest to lawyers and judges, would create additional judgeships in Madison and Baldwin County as well as adding one in the Circuit containing Autauga, Chilton and Elmore Counties. The General Fund budget was also introduced in the Senate.

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: criminal, domestic relations, judicial, court costs, elections ethics and government relations (EEGR), civil/ general and tax.

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

Legislative Calendar

The regular session of the 2022 Legislative Session is proceeding as follows:

• The Senate has adjourned until Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022.
• The House has adjourned until Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022.