2020 Guide to the Alabama Legislative Session
Legislative Priorities | Legislative Session Key Players | How Do I Keep Up?
Blow the whistle—it’s time for the main event, folks.
No, not the 49ers or Chiefs, but the Alabama Legislature, where the state’s MVPs are prepped and ready for kickoff.
Set to begin February 4, the 2020 Alabama Legislative Session is our public affairs team’s most anticipated season of the year. We recommend tailgating with our rookie’s legislative guide and recap of last season.
Whether you’re a superfan or new to the sport, PERITUS is here to be your commentator until the end of the session. As the legislators make their way back to Montgomery, scroll down to access our playbook with this second edition of Peritus’ Guide to the Alabama Legislative Session.
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
When the clock strikes noon on Tuesday, February 4, Alabama legislators will begin to tackle some important issues in the 2020 legislative session. Here’s a quick overview of what we expect as the game’s highlights.
Kicking off…THE BUDGET
Constitutionally, the legislature has one job: pass the budget. This can often be a complicated process as it impacts everything from public safety to health care to education. With Alabama’s economy on a winning streak, legislators are encouraged that the budgets are in a good place financially. The legislature has been conducting budget hearings to crunch numbers on what should be included in the General Fund and the Education Trust Fund (ETF). It’s expected that there will be $500 million more (7%) increase in the ETF in 2021 than in 2020. For the General Fund, there is an expected $100 million (5%) increase.
What to expect: There is a lot that goes in to passing a budget since it drives so many programs and initiatives in the state (think prison funding, teacher salaries, etc.). This is THE top priority for legislators. The budgets won’t pass overnight so expect legislators to study and debate before eventually passing them.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
The major issue to watch this year will be prison reform. With Alabama under the spotlight of the U.S. Department of Justice for its failing prison system, Governor Kay Ivey will be looking to make substantial changes to mitigate the crisis. Violence, understaffing, infrastructure challenges and overcrowding are some of the issues that continue to plague Alabama’s prison system. While there is no easy ‘fix’, the legislature will be looking at a number of options including a proposed plan to build three new men’s prisons.
What to expect: The Department of Justice has a close watch on this issue and has said if the state can't fix it, they'll take matters into their own hands. When the legislature returns on Feb. 4, all eyes are on Governor Ivey who is expected to hit the ground running with a plan to address Alabama’s prison system. The recent closing of Holman Correctional Facility has only heightened the sense of urgency, and Gov. Ivey’s Criminal Justice Policy study group recently released its findings that rehabilitation is the long-term key to fixing Alabama’s troubled prison system.
HEALTH CARE
Health care access remains top of mind for many legislators, especially those in rural areas. In Alabama, 13 hospitals have closed over the last 10 years, sparking urgency among state leaders to make some big moves. More than just wellness, this issue impacts jobs, economic development and quality of life for Alabama residents.
What to expect: While Democrats are pushing for Medicaid expansion, Republicans will be looking at other solutions for a cure including boosting telehealth (like FaceTiming your doctor), creating community clinics and improving medical transport.
LOTTERY
The lottery debate returns this year with new proposals on the table. Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) has already come out of the gate saying he intends to file a lottery bill that would legalize the sale of scratch-off tickets (think Mega Millions and Powerball) with the revenue going only to education. On the flip side, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians are doubling down asking, “what would Alabama do with $1 billion?” in a proposal to the state that would give them exclusive gaming rights.
What to expect: After gaining traction last year, many are wondering if this is the year that Alabama establishes a lottery. Despite the need for a steady revenue stream and the appeal of stopping the lottery leak to our surrounding states, opponents are saying now is not the time. Look out for some lively debates and proposals from a variety of interests during the session. If passed, the lottery bill would go to Alabama voters.
MENTAL HEALTH
For years, the state has kicked the can down the road when it comes to funding mental health. In fact, for years the state cut funding. But now, leaders are recognizing the need for better access to care, which requires an increase in funding. Many believe that improvements to the state’s mental health care system will also have a positive ripple effect on other state issues including criminal justice reform. Alabama Department of Mental Health Commissioner Lynn Beshear has requested $18 million in state funding to create three crisis centers across the state to serve people who need treatment or resources.
What to expect: Gov. Ivey has tasked House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) to spearhead conversations about the best approach to improve mental health care this year. Expect legislation that will address access to care, funding, training and law enforcement. Bottom line, this is a progressive issue that Alabama is ready to take on.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA
Last year, the legislature passed a bill to create a study commission focused on medical marijuana research and exploring its impact. Alabama’s Medical Cannabis Study Commission, an 18-person panel of doctors, lawyers and other professionals, has recommended a draft bill that will go before the legislature. So, what’s in the bill? The proposed legislation, sponsored by Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence), would allow the use of medical cannabis to treat pain, seizures, nausea and other symptoms but would also impose regulations for patient use and govern steps for the entire process—from production to consumption. While there is bipartisan support, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has come out in opposition to the proposal in a letter to state senators and representatives. Marshall cites concerns with addiction, opioid use, potential negative effects of long-term use, downplayed risks, regulations and prescription drug monitoring.
What to expect: Despite Marshall’s concerns, expect Melson to blaze forward and introduce a bill this session. Last year, the bill passed the Senate, but the House opted to create a study commission instead. Like in 2019, there will be significant debate about what’s the best approach for patients, the state and the business community.
EDUCATION
The good news: The Education Trust Fund is expected to increase, with $500 million more in the 2021 budget than in 2020. The bad news: There is significant work to be done to improve the state’s education. Low test scores, school safety, teacher shortages, failing schools and funding are at the top of the list of issues that the legislature will be working on come the start of session. Our legislators will be focused on solving this equation—Alabama recently ranking last in the nation in math NAEP scores, so what needs to improve with our education system, especially in math and reading?
What to expect: As a former educator, Gov. Ivey is passionate about education and this continues to be a priority for her. Expect her to outline her goals for improving education in her state of the state address on Feb. 4. Many of the other top issues this session will have an impact on education like mental health, the lottery and the ETF budget. Be on the lookout for a teacher pay raise, mental health funding and pre-K initiatives.
Extra point: Since you are more than a fair weather fan now, make sure to save the date for a game changing vote that impacts our education system: On March 3, Alabama voters will have the opportunity to voice their opinion on Amendment 1, a constitutional amendment that would change the Alabama Board of Education from an elected position to governor appointed.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION KEY PLAYERS
Kay Ivey, Governor: The Endzone– Bills must get past her to score.
Serving as only the second woman governor of Alabama, Gov. Ivey is the chief executive officer of the state. In the legislative process, she is responsible for executing state law. Although she suffered a pre-season injury, don’t count her out—she will be back in the game approving or vetoing bills passed by the Alabama Legislature.
Will Ainsworth, Lieutenant Governor: Senate Playmaker – Aligns the Senate Xs and Os.
The Lt. Gov. is the presiding officer of the Senate. Bills are referred to committees by the Lt. Gov. and the President Pro Tem in the Senate and by the Speaker in the House.
Del Marsh, Senate President Pro Tempore: Senate Second String – Ready to step onto the field.
The President Pro Tem is elected by the entire Senate to preside over its deliberations when the Lt. Gov. is absent.
Greg Reed, Senate Majority Leader: Senate Team Captain - Rallies Senate Republicans.
Chosen by the Senate majority party (R) to manage the party’s legislative agenda.
Bobby Singleton, Senate Minority Leader: Other Senate Team Captain – Rallies Senate Democrats.
Elected by the Senate minority party (D) to manage the party’s legislative agenda.
Jabo Waggoner, Senate Rules Chair: Senate Offensive Coordinator – Decides the Senate’s game plan.
Sen. Waggoner has the longest record of service of any legislator in Alabama history. The Senate Rules Committee, led by the rules chair, considers all bills and in what order to schedule their consideration on the floor of the Senate for the day.
Mac McCutcheon, Speaker of the House: House Playmaker – Aligns the House Xs and Os.
As the highest-ranking member in the House, he serves on and appoints members to state boards and commissions.
Nathanial Ledbetter, House Majority Leader: House Team Captain – Rallies House Republicans.
Chosen by the House majority party (R) to manage the party’s legislative agenda.
Anthony Daniels, House Minority Leader: Other House Team Captain – Rallies House Democrats.
Elected by the House minority party (D) to manage the party’s legislative agenda.
Mike Jones, House Rules Chair: House Offensive Coordinator – Decides the House’s game plan.
The House Rules committee, led by the rules chair, considers all bills and in what order to schedule their consideration on the floor of the House for the day.
HOW DO I CHEER ON ISSUES THIS LEGISLATIVE SESSION?
Now that you know the issues, don’t just stand there... do something! Here’s how to engage with Alabama’s lawmakers and top news sources.
Use this map to locate your districts and determine who represents you.
Learn more about and contact your representatives and senators. Tell them how you really feel to ensure they are fighting the good fight for your district’s needs.
Want to impress your politico friends? Expand your vocabulary with this legislative glossary.
In the mood to binge watch? Satisfy your craving and stream the session.
Twitter savvy? Follow these key players and join the conversation.
Click here for all the Twitter talk from Alabama’s policy media.
Want to connect with the key players? Click their names above.
To keep up with House and Senate accounts, see below:
Our PUBLISHED by Peritus takeaway is this:
Put me in coach!
When you’re educated about state-level issues, you’re empowered to be a part of the conversation. Not only are you informed, you’re also able to take action and connect with your community through engaging lawmakers, holding them accountable and participating in elections. We salute you for making it to the end of our guide, but don’t stop now—this is just the beginning. We encourage you to follow along on our social media to keep up with the session and share with others.