Alabama 2022 Regular Session

Alabama Senate Bill SB178

Introduced
2/2/22  
Refer
2/2/22  
Engrossed
2/16/22  
Refer
2/16/22  
Refer
2/22/22  
Enrolled
3/10/22  
Chaptered
3/10/22  

Caption

Counties and municipalities, investment of certain funds in commercial paper and banker's acceptances, authorized under certain conditions, Sec. 11-81-21 am'd.

Impact

The changes proposed by SB178 could significantly impact local financial management practices across Alabama's municipalities and counties. By allowing the investment of municipal and county funds in additional high-quality financial instruments, local governments might achieve better returns on their unallocated funds. This flexibility could proliferate sound financial practices and aid in addressing budget constraints with smarter investment strategies. However, it may also require local governments to adopt higher standards of due diligence and risk assessment when selecting investment options.

Summary

SB178 aims to amend Section 11-81-21 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically providing more flexibility for municipalities and counties in investing unused funds. The bill includes provisions for these local governing bodies to invest their funds in a broader range of obligations, including various commercial papers and banker's acceptances, thereby potentially enhancing their investment returns. By modernizing the language and updating investment options available, the bill seeks to streamline local investment processes.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB178 appears to be supportive, with bipartisan recognition of the need to provide local governments with enhanced financial management tools. Advocates highlight the importance of allowing municipalities to make the most of available funds, particularly during times of fiscal instability. Stakeholders from local governance suggest that a diversified investment portfolio can lead to improved fiscal health and capability to fund essential public services.

Contention

Although SB178 is largely viewed positively, there are points of contention regarding the prudence of increased investment options. Some local officials express concerns about the potential risks associated with new investment avenues, arguing that investment decisions could lead to financial mismanagement if not carefully monitored. Discussions also point to the need for proper guidance and regulations to ensure that all municipalities and counties are equipped to handle the complexities of these investment opportunities responsibly.

Companion Bills

AL HB121

Same As Counties and municipalities, investment of certain funds in commercial paper and banker's acceptances, authorized under certain conditions, Sec. 11-81-21 am'd.

Previously Filed As

AL SB242

Innovation Districts; establishment of by counties and municipalities as public corporation authorized; provide for the powers of innovation districts

AL HB349

Innovation Districts; establishment of by counties and municipalities as public corporation authorized; provide for the powers of innovation districts.

AL SB336

Research and Development Corridors; establishment of by counties and Class 1 municipalities as public corporation authorized; provide for the powers of research and development corridors.

AL HB386

Sales and use tax on food, state rate reduced, counties and municipalities authorized to reduce

AL SB342

Local land bank authorities; tax sale properties acquisitions; tax exemption for acquired properties; tax revenue allocation; conveyance to state and local governments under certain circumstances; creation of local land bank authorities authorized under certain conditions

AL SB168

Municipalities, commercial development authorities, project defined to include single commercial enterprises

AL SB256

Mobile County; amend definition of municipal tax lien to authorize the inclusion of certain weed liens on a tax bill under certain circumstances; deem municipality as prevailing party in certain bid auctions resulting in a tie; authorize municipality to enter property to make repairs under certain circumstances; and authorize tax collecting official to sell a tax lien under certain circumstances.

AL SB64

Motor vehicles, off-road vehicles, use on public roads, authorized under certain conditions

AL SB267

Alabama Charter School Finance Authority, bonding authority established, legislative findings, board membership, powers, contracts, investments

AL HB196

Sale of tax-delinquent land; Land Commissioner authorized to contract with online auction to sell certain lands

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.