Budget isolation resolution
Alabama commission finalizes language for constitutional amendment; vote set for March
The Alabama Fair Ballot Commission Tuesday voted to approve language for a constitutional amendment that could make it easier for the Alabama Legislature to enact local legislation. The amendment, which will be on the ballot in March’s primary election, would address a legislative procedure known as the budget isolation resolution (BIR). Under a 1984 constitutional […]
How a good intention made the Alabama Legislature less democratic
Alabama government has many features aimed at thwarting popular will. There’s gerrymandering. And the centralized nature of state government. With most state power concentrated around Goat Hill, it’s much easier for entrenched interests to influence policy. But few of these features are so on-the-nose with their anti-democratic nature as a unique part of the Alabama […]
Amendments would exclude local bills from procedural motions in Alabama Legislature
Two legislative committees Tuesday approved proposals exempting local bills and constitutional amendments from a procedural motion required for most legislation during a session. The House’s State Government Committee approved a constitutional amendment from Rep. Jim Carns, R-Vestavia Hills, on Tuesday. The Senate Confirmations Committee approved a similar proposal sponsored by Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville. Under […]