Week 8

April 25 - April 29

It has certainly been a different week in the Alabama Legislature, as both chambers met briefly this morning before adjourning to return home to their respective districts. In light of yesterday’s storms across the state, this was the right thing to do. It is more important for our legislators be at home offering aid and support than to be in Montgomery debating legislation. I know that the thoughts and prayers of each member of the Shelby County Delegation go out to our friends and neighbors that were affected around the state. That sentiment goes for me as well.

Tuesday was also a strange day. The Senate went into session at 3 pm Tuesday and did not adjourn until after 6 am on Wednesday. The all night session consisted mainly of Democrats speaking at great lengths on bills before the Republican majority would cloture to end debate and vote on the bill. This happened for each bill that was presented. Among the bills passed was Governor Bentley’s jobs bill that gives tax incentives to businesses with industrial projects. They also passed a Constitutional Amendment removing “Jim Crow” provisions and racial language from the Alabama Constitution.

The House was a bit more traditional on Tuesday and most importantly passed the General Fund Budget. They also passed a bill that would move the Alabama Presidential primary to the second Tuesday of March. The House also passed the Tort Reform package out of committee on Wednesday.

This morning, before adjourning from chambers, a Senate committee passed the House version of the illegal immigration bill that is mentioned below in last week’s update. To see last week’s update, please continue reading.