Some legislation to watch: Legislature faces critical last days

With only eight legislative days remaining in the 2024 session, the Alabama Legislature is racing against time to address a slew of bills that could dramatically impact the lives of the state’s residents. The session, which has veered markedly to the right, has been dominated by conservative lawmakers pushing a host of contentious “red meat” bills to satisfy the far-right wing of the state’s Republican base.

The focus is now on several key pieces of legislation that stand out both for their potential benefits and their controversial nature. These measures could define the session as either a success or a failure, depending on their outcomes and the real-world effects they may have on Alabamians.

Highlighted Legislation to Watch:

HB358 Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville: This bill proposes tax credits for employers who provide child care and for child care providers. The House Ways and Means Education Committee is set to review the bill on Tuesday, April 16.

HB86 Rep. Chris Pringle, R-Mobile: Aimed at updating voting procedures for those with unverified addresses or registrations, this bill will be considered by the Senate County and Municipal Government Committee also on April 16.

HB144 and HB145 Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville: These bills involve financial appropriations from the Education Trust Fund for fiscal year 2024 and the 2025 budget, respectively. Both are scheduled for discussion in the House on April 16.

HB 376 Rep. Ernie Yarbrough, R-Trinity: This controversial bill would permit state and local enforcement agencies to implement federal immigration laws. It is opposed by Alabama Arise and will be reviewed by the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee on April 17.

HB188 and SB165 Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, and Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham: These bills seek to establish a uniform process for hearings and rights for students facing suspension or expulsion. They have garnered support from Alabama Arise and will be considered on April 17.

HB27 and HB299 Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa: Both bills, aim at justice reforms. HB27 allows for resentencing in capital cases with jury overrides, and HB 299 pushes for considerations of health in parole decisions. Both are slated for review on April 17.

HB409 Rep. Jim Hill, R-Moody: This bill, which proposes absolute immunity for district attorneys advising law enforcement, is under scrutiny and will be discussed on April 17.

SB67 Sen. Greg Albritton, R-Atmore: The 2025 General Fund budget bill is being monitored closely and may be considered this week.

As the clock ticks down, the stakes remain high with the potential for significant legislative changes that could reshape the socioeconomic landscape of Alabama. Whether these bills will pass or falter remains to be seen, but the impact of this session will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.

For more information on these bills, see Alabama Arise.