March 26, 2018 Group Watch: News & Views from the State House
The 2018 Regular Session is winding down, but there was still plenty of activity in both he House and Senate last week. This week is expected to mark the end of the session.
- On Tuesday (21st day of session): The House passed bills of local application only and general bills already passed by the Senate to further provide for ignition interlock provisions for those convicted of driving under the influence; to establish the Rural Broadband Act to support investment in infrastructure in rural areas; to further provide for the sale of land for unpaid taxes; and to create the Alabama Rural Hospital Resource Center within the University of Alabama at Birmingham.The Senate passed a number of local bills including legislation to set the term of office for the Jefferson County Board of Education in Birmingham.
- On Wednesday (22nd day of session): The House passed several bills of local application only and Senate-passed bills to establish the Alabama Cyber Engineering School and to increase the amount liquor for sale produced on-site for off-site consumption by Alabama manufacturers. The Senate approved bills of local application only and House-passed bills to establish a tax deduction for contributions to first-time home-buyer savings accounts to save funds for a down payment and closing costs; to authorize federally-qualified health centers to deliver medications to clinics; and to provide that income tax credit only offset liability from non-Alabama sources.
- On Thursday (23rd day of session): The House passed several bills of local application only and approved Senate-passed bills relating to drowsy driving and to require public water systems to notify the State Health Officer when changes are made to fluoride levels; to provide for clarification and additions to the Engineers and Land Surveyors Board; and to further provide for membership and duties of the state Pilotage Commission. The Senate passed a number of House-passed bills of local application only and House-passed general bills to provide for the qualifications of the Secretary for Early Childhood Education; to further provide for the Alabama Move Over Act; and to create the school safety and security task force.
