Lawmakers vow to refile bills after they die in 2025 legislative session
One bill would have expanded gambling in the state, legalizing sports betting and creating a lottery. Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), the sponsor, said we can expect to see it come back up next year, though it was not filed officially. He said he likely won't be bringing it, and the effort needs a new face.
'Between ALFA's determined fighting this and others, it's going to be difficult to bring about the changes to make the votes work,' Albritton explained.
Another bill, sponsored by Democrats, would have extended a tax cut on overtime. That will now expire this summer. But, Rep. Kelvin Lawrence (D-Hayneville) said his party will keep pushing.
'It doesn't discriminate party lines,' Lawrence said. 'It doesn't discriminate rich/poor, black/white. It basically is just saying, 'if you work here in the state of Alabama, you can get more money in your paychecks.''
Lawrence said the effort, led by Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville), gets people involved in the workforce.
'Hopefully we can find the money and the funds to actually reinstate this program and make sure that we continue to provide that safety net for those individuals in the state of Alabama,' said Lawrence.
Sen. Keith Kelley (R-Anniston) sponsored a bill that would require schools to display the Ten Commandments. He said it honors our nation's history. While some have opposed it, he said he'll be bringing it back next year.
'It also, I think, lends to kids accepting other kids,' he said. 'And hopefully a reduction in bullying and those types of behaviors.'
The 2026 legislative session will start in January. We'll follow these bills as they get pre-filed closer to time.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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