(January 12 thru April 26) 

It is truly all about the money.  Regardless of bills introduced, the huge shadow over Montgomery and our State is financial issues.  Both the Education and General Fund Budgets will soon dominate the discussion of both the House and Senate.  Both the House and Senate know that Katrina bailed us out once, then, the Stimulus bailed us out next.  What will be the answer for 2010?  CUTS!  Exactly where those cuts fall remains to be seen but some say 30% while others even say 50%!  Corrections should get their desire and that leans us closer to 50% cut in the General Fund.

The Education Budget always ties us up some but hopes are to see that move in Mid April.  Rest assured; groups are already lobbying to see their education needs met so this could add fireworks to our session. 

One issue agreed on is No taxes.  With this being an election year, most agree no one will be caught dead voting to tax citizens in the age we live in.

As for bills that could dominate session, here are my thoughts:

• Ethics Reform – It has been in the 1990’s since this issue was tackled.  Both parties feel their reform is best and this could get messy!
• Texting While Driving – We all are familiar with this.
• Property Forfeiture for Sex Crimes Electronically – Districts are really weighing in on kids being solicited for sex online.
• PACT Solutions
• Electronic Bingo
• Energy – Although uncertain what will be discussed, people feel it is time for elected officials to get Alabama “in check” in energy resources, use, etc.

For construction specifically, all eyes will be on Senator Barron’s attempt to get road funding from Alabama trust to transportation.  One hundred million per year for ten years is proposed currently.  Keep your eyes on this.  We will partner with Alabama Road Builders on this effort.
Summing up the session, here are my predicted ‘buzz words’.
• Budgets (General Fund and Education)
• Election Year
• Republicans attempt to control House or Senate
• Electronic Bingo
• PACT/Charter Schools

As always, ABC’s Legislative Committee and Board of Directors will have our priorities but this is a Session Overview as I see it.