Legislative Summary

On Tuesday, Feb. 6, the Alabama Legislature commenced the 2024 Regular Legislative Session. As the second year of the quadrennium begins, the legislators appear energized and ready to get to work.

As expected, Governor Ivey gave her State of the State address Tuesday night, highlighting her priorities for the year, and the legislature followed by introducing over two hundred bills on their agenda. There were 157 bills introduced in the House of Representatives and 85 bills were introduced in the Senate.

Many of the bills introduced involve gaming, elections, and schools. In addition, we got a look at the initial budgets of the state’s General Fund and Education Trust Fund.

Other legislation of interest that was introduced this week includes:

• Proposed changes to regulations of licensing and occupational boards;
• Bills relating to the insurance department, insurance fraud, and taxes;
• The creation of additional regulations with artificial intelligence and created images; and
• Changes to real estate licensing and practices

There were numerous bills introduced that would make changes in criminal law: from pardons and paroles, the creation of new crimes, and the creation of an indigent defense advisory board. All criminal bills may be found in the criminal tracking report found below.

There were two bills relating to increases in court costs introduced from Covington and Marion counties.

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), and judicial.

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

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

The 2024 regular session of the Alabama Legislature will continue as follows:

• The Senate has adjourned until Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 2:00 p.m.
• The House has adjourned until Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 1:00 p.m.