Alabama 2025 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB498

Introduced
4/1/25  

Caption

State Superintendent of Education, authorized to issue subpoenas and summon witnesses on behalf of department; authorized to appoint special investigators

Impact

The authorization for the State Superintendent to appoint special investigators within the Office of General Counsel is a notable addition. This provision will empower the superintendent to conduct thorough investigations into allegations of misconduct among school employees, including issues related to certification revocation. The ability to access pertinent law enforcement records further strengthens this authority, contributing to more effective oversight of educational institutions. The bill is expected to impact existing statutes concerning school administration and accountability, aiming to bolster the integrity of the state's educational framework.

Summary

House Bill 498 aims to enhance the powers of the State Superintendent of Education in Alabama by allowing the superintendent to issue subpoenas and summon witnesses related to educational matters. This amendment to Section 16-4-4 of the Code of Alabama significantly expands the superintendent's ability to oversee school laws, rules, and regulations. It provides the superintendent with new tools to enforce accountability and ensure compliance within the public school system. By granting these powers, the bill seeks to streamline investigations into educational misconduct and disputes, making the process more efficient and structured.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance regulatory authority, it may also raise concerns regarding the balance of power within the educational system. Critics could argue that expanding the superintendent's investigative powers might lead to overreach or misuse of authority. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding due process for witnesses summoned under this law and the implications for school employees regarding their rights. Overall, the introduction of HB 498 aligns with ongoing efforts to improve educational governance, but it could also spark debates on the extent of administrative power in education.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL SB33

Public K-12 education, employment of assistant superintendents, assistant chief school finance officers, and assistant principals by contract provided for local boards of education

AL HB189

Department of Transportation; Governor to authorized to create State Transportation Commission; Commission authorized to appoint Director of Transportation

AL SB141

St. Clair County, specifying qualified electors for county superintendent and board of education and changing Pell City Board of Education from an elected to appointed board and specifying residential qualifications for members of city board local constitutional amendment

AL SB25

Board of Nursing, authorized by rule to clarify scope of practice of certified nursing support technicians, disciplinary actions clarified

AL HB140

Insurance Department, insurance fraud, statute of limitations increased, investigators of Department of Insurance Fraud Unit, power of arrest to include other state laws

AL SB65

Insurance Department, insurance fraud, statute of limitations increased, investigators of Department of Insurance Fraud Unit, power of arrest to include other state laws

AL SB43

Insurance Department, insurance fraud, statute of limitations increased, investigators of Department of Insurance Fraud Unit, power of arrest to include other state laws

AL HB390

Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission; primary responsibility over regulation, licensing, and enforcement of cannabis cultivation authorized

AL SB224

Office of Occupational and Professional Licensing, created within the Department of Labor; oversight provided to professional or occupational licensing boards.

AL SB78

Alabama Uniform Commercial Real Estate Receivership Act, created, process for appointment of receiver for disputes relating to commercial real estate provided

Similar Bills

CA AB486

Elementary and secondary education: omnibus bill.

CA SB1181

Elementary and secondary education: omnibus bill.

CA AB961

Education finance: school districts in fiscal distress: remedial actions.

CA AB1414

Landlord-tenant: internet service provider subscriptions.

CA AB375

Model curriculum standards: career technical education.

CA AB3179

Education finance: school district finances: Educational Employment Relations Act.

CA AB599

Public schools: accountability: county superintendents of schools.

LA HB276

Makes the office of state superintendent of education an elective rather than an appointed office (OR -$80,000 GF EX See Note)