LEGISLATIVE SUMMARY

The 2025 Alabama Legislative Session is nearing completion. Days 28 and 29 took place this week, with the final legislative day scheduled for Wednesday, May 14. With time running out, activity was brisk. This session, a total of 621 bills were introduced in the House and 347 in the Senate.

While a few committee meetings occurred on Tuesday morning, most committee work has wrapped up. The House and Senate worked through packed agendas on both days, tackling several lengthy Special Order Calendars. Numerous conference committees also met to reconcile differences between House and Senate versions of legislation. When one chamber amends a bill and the other does not concur, a conference committee—made up of three members from each chamber—is formed to negotiate a final version. That version must then be approved by both chambers before heading to the Governor.

Legislation of interest to attorneys that passed this week includes:

• HB 307 – The Speedy Trial Act: Further provides for the appointment of special judges and district attorneys in certain criminal cases.

• HB 43 – Split Sentencing Reform: Grants greater judicial discretion regarding split sentences in certain cases.

• Additional measures include legislation excusing breastfeeding mothers from jury duty, as well as updates to Aniah’s Law expanding the list of qualifying crimes and refining procedures.

Other significant bills receiving final passage include a comprehensive regulatory bill on vaping and new restrictions on cell phone use in schools.

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, May 14, at 1:00 p.m.
• The House has adjourned until Tuesday, May 14, at 1:00 p.m.