To adopt and incorporate into the Code of Alabama 1975, those general and permanent laws of the state enacted during the 2021 First Special Session, the 2021 Second Special Session, the 2022 First Special Session, and the 2022 Regular Session as contained in the 2022 Cumulative Supplements to certain volumes of the code and 2023 Replacement Volumes 13, 13A, and 13B; and to adopt and incorporate into the Code of Alabama 1975, the 2022 Cumulative Supplements to local law volumes; to make corrections in certain volumes of the cumulative supplements and replacement volumes; to specify that this adoption and incorporation constitute a continuous systematic codification of the entire Code of Alabama 1975, and that this act is a law that adopts a code; to declare that the Code Publisher has certified that it has discharged its duties regarding the replacement volumes; to expressly provide that this act does not affect any 2023 session statutes; and to specify the duties of the Secretary of State regarding the custody of the cumulative supplements and replacement volumes.
Impact
The enactment of SB204 is anticipated to streamline the legal framework within Alabama, making the state's laws more organized and accessible. By codifying various legal provisions from recent sessions, it consolidates existing regulations and corrects previous editorial errors. This systematic approach not only enhances legal clarity but also potentially aids citizens and legal professionals in navigating the state's legal landscape. Importantly, the bill specifies that it does not affect statutes enacted in the 2023 session, preserving the integrity of newer laws while incorporating past ones.
Summary
SB204 is an act aimed at adopting and incorporating various laws into the Code of Alabama 1975. Specifically, it seeks to integrate general and permanent laws enacted during certain special sessions and the regular session of 2022, along with the 2022 cumulative supplements and relevant replacement volumes. The bill is intended to establish a systematic codification of the state's legal framework, ensuring continuity and clarity in the Code of Alabama. This effort is facilitated by Thomson Reuters, the appointed Code Publisher, who has certified the correct editing and publication of these materials without making substantive changes.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB204 appears largely positive as it represents a significant step towards improving the state's legal documentation. Supporters likely view the bill as a necessary action to ensure that Alabama's laws are continuously updated and well-maintained. The lack of opposition in the voting history, with a unanimous passage of 100 yeas, indicates widespread legislative agreement on the importance of this codification effort. Consequently, the bill is seen as a critical move for better governance and transparency in legal affairs.
Contention
While there appears to be general support for SB204, some may question whether the thorough codification process adequately addresses the unique needs of local governance or about any specific provisions that could be omitted during the codification. The bill emphasizes that it shall not repeal or impede any statutes from the 2023 legislative session, which could inadvertently lead to complications where overlapping laws might occur. Thus, while the codification serves clarity, there is an inherent need for ongoing review and adjustment of state laws to ensure they remain responsive to contemporary issues and challenges.
Legislature, authorized to request Secretary of State to poll members whether to convene special session and authorize Senate President Pro Tem and Speaker to call Legislature into special session in certain conditions
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2025 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2026; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2025 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2026.
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2023 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2024; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2023 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2024.
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuities commencing 2024; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuities commencing 2024.