Bill > SB194

This bill expands the powers of agriculture authorities in Alabama by adding two key provisions. First, the bill authorizes agriculture authorities to terminate or relocate easements on their owned property using eminent domain powers, similar to those possessed by the state, with the important caveat that this does not apply to easements where an electric utility has existing rights of entry. Second, the bill allows agriculture authorities to purchase items from the statewide public contract list compiled by the Chief Procurement Officer under the terms provided therein. Additionally, the bill adds a provision requiring that all state lodging taxes collected by an agriculture authority and remitted to a taxing authority must be rebated back to the agriculture authority. The new provisions aim to provide more operational flexibility to agriculture authorities, giving them broader powers to manage their properties and potentially generate additional revenue. The bill is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, providing ample time for affected entities to prepare for the new regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search