Yellowhammer Times

The Alabama legislature concluded its regular session on May 9, affording Governor Kay Ivey ten days to sign or veto bills passed in the session's final days. The session saw several significant bills advance:

Rep. Phillip Pettus of Killen introduced HB 73, implementing a 7% annual cap on property tax assessments for both residential and commercial properties for three years. This measure includes a sunset clause necessitating further legislative action to extend caps for different property classes. Sen. Keith Kelley of Anniston supported a reduced 5% cap, advocating for the interests of NFIB members.

In efforts to boost labor force participation, HB 358, a childcare tax credit bill introduced by Rep. Anthony Daniels of Huntsville and Sen. Garlan Gudger of Cullman, passed on the 29th legislative day. The bill provides specific tax credits beneficial to small businesses and rural areas.

SB 104, authored by Sen. Josh Carnley of Ono, addresses litigation reform in asbestos cases. Signed into law by Governor Ivey, it takes effect on October 1, 2024, establishing a requirement for plaintiffs to disclose detailed exposure history upon filing a case and allowing for the removal of defendants if they are not identified in the plaintiff's claims.

Legislation introduced by Rep. Margie Wilcox of Mobile and Rep. Kerry Underwood of Tuscumbia, HB 230, repeals the annual corporate report filed with the Alabama Secretary of State, effective October 1, 2024. The repeal, supported by the NFIB Tax Advisory Committee, eliminates a government filing requirement.

HB 66, introduced by Rep. Chip Brown of Mobile, modifies seafood labeling regulations, including signage and deli requirements for food establishments. The Alabama Public Health Department will establish the relevant rules.

Governor Ivey and various Alabama lawmakers played pivotal roles in these legislative advancements, targeting increased economic activity and regulatory simplification across the state.