SB128 is a legislative bill that proposes a restructuring of the Alabama Department of Public Health by abolishing the State Board of Health and transferring its duties and authorities to the State Committee of Public Health. The bill revises the membership of the State Committee, sets new qualifications for the State Health Officer, and establishes a review process for the State Health Officer's performance. It also mandates that emergency rules, orders, or directives from the State Health Officer require approval from the Governor and filing with the Secretary of State to be legally binding. The bill updates the per diem rate for committee members and modernizes language for inclusivity, such as changing "chairman" to "chair."

The bill amends several sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to reflect these organizational changes and introduces a staggered membership for the State Committee to ensure diverse representation. It shifts the appointment process for the State Health Officer to the Governor, based on a list from the Committee, and outlines the officer's powers and duties, including oversight of county health officers and staying informed on disease outbreaks. Notably, the bill prohibits mandating COVID-19 vaccinations by the State Health Officer or Governor. The act is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2024, with the provisions regarding the State Health Officer's appointment becoming operative upon the next vacancy after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-1-1, 22-2-1, 22-2-4, 22-2-5, 22-2-6, 22-2-8
Engrossed: 22-1-1, 22-2-1, 22-2-4, 22-2-5, 22-2-6, 22-2-8
Enrolled: 22-1-1, 22-2-1, 22-2-4, 22-2-5, 22-2-6, 22-2-8