Bill > HB538

This bill updates Alabama's official coat of arms by modifying the heraldic description and symbolism of the state's emblematic shield. The changes primarily involve replacing references to the Confederacy with a representation of Alabama itself, while maintaining the historical narrative of the state's sovereignty. Specifically, the bill removes the reference to the Confederacy as one of the five nations and replaces it with Alabama as a sovereign entity. The coat of arms will continue to feature flags of Spain, France, Great Britain, and now Alabama, unified by the shield of the United States. The shield will still be supported by two eagles, with a crest depicting the "Badine" ship representing the first European colony in the state. The Latin motto "Audemus jura nostra defendere" (We Dare Maintain Our Rights) remains unchanged. The heraldic description is updated to replace the Confederacy's symbolic elements with a crimson saltire representing Alabama. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing a modernized representation of Alabama's historical and current identity.