Alabama 2023 Legislative Report: Week Three
29 committee meetings were held throughout the week.
Alabama Legislature
Bill filed to eliminate Jefferson Davis holiday
Rep. Chris England also plans to file a bill to eliminate Robert E. Lee Day, which is still celebrated in conjunction with MLK Day.
House unanimously approves bill targeting fentanyl traffickers
Gov. Kay Ivey urged the Alabama Senate to pass the bill quickly so she can sign it into law as soon as possible.
Fentanyl trafficking bill moves forward out of House committee
The bill would create mandatory minimum sentences for possession of fentanyl that indicate trafficking.
Bill to create parole board oversight sent to subcommittee
The percentage of parole requests granted has fallen from 12 percent to 6 percent in the last year.
Senate committee OKs bill to reduce occupational taxes for cities
The Alabama League of Municipalities and several mayors and public officials expressed opposition to the bill, saying it would decimate their revenue streams.
Ivey’s budget request includes $400 rebates, preparing for down times
The $400 rebates are expected to go out to every person who filed for income tax returns in 2021 within 90 days of passage.
Figures: Bills targeting abortion law designed to send a message
Figures said she doesn't expect to succeed in the Republican Legislature, but wants to send a message that Democrats are still fighting.
Advocacy groups to rally for Medicaid expansion
PARCA executive director Ryan Hankins said the state is finally positioned to be able to afford expansion.
Legislature approves $1.06 billion pandemic relief spending
The House concurred 96-0 with the Senate's amended legislation. Final approval now rests with Gov. Kay Ivey.