The finish line is in sight as the Alabama Legislature knocked out three more legislative days this week and with only four days remaining, plan to Sine Die April 8th to end the 2022 session.
It was nice to be back in person at the state house and not lobbying from a computer monitor after almost two years of limited access due to COVID-19.
This legislative session the ALVMA did not have any specific legislation introduced, however, we were asked for advice and in some instances offered amendments to several bills of interest.
The General Fund budget has passed and awaits Governor Ivey’s signature. The Education budget awaits final approval from the House after a few Senate changes and will likely be approved Tuesday.
Alabama will remain one of only five states that does not have a state lottery. Dead for the session are the dueling gaming bills. Senate legislation that would have allowed for sports betting, lottery and eight casinos at the current dog tracks and sites owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, along with two smaller sites and House legislation that would have created a lottery only without the expansion of casinos.
Campaign season is in high gear with primary elections less than two months away. Several of our allies serving in the legislature have primary opponents and are in need our financial support. The ALVMA PAC committee will kick into high gear over the next several weeks to make sure we do what we can to protect those in the legislature who support our efforts. Please consider contributing to the PAC so we can maximize our contributions.
As always, if you have any questions, concerns or advice feel free to contact me. It continues to be a pleasure to represent the ALVMA as your lobbyist for what I think is my 18th year.
Jeff