Urban Institute
The Fee Trap: Why Alabama’s local governments can’t shake fines and charges
When Alabama needs to pay for services, it turns to fees and general charges, or fines and fees in the criminal justice system. Legislators passed almost 60 bills during this spring’s legislative session directing how local governments may raise revenues or spend money. Many generated money for counties, from fundraising events and lodging taxes to […]
Alabama grocery tax repeal efforts draw liberal and conservative groups
In an age of polarization, there’s one thing that can unite liberals and conservatives. And that’s getting rid of Alabama’s tax on groceries. The left-leaning Alabama Arise and the right-leaning Alabama Policy Institute (API) will both lobby legislators in the upcoming session to reduce or repeal the tax, which, with local sales taxes included, can […]