The bill establishes the Agriculture Exhibition Center Corporation to operate the Alabama Farm Center, focusing on promoting education in the agricultural industry and advancing agricultural business and workforce development in Alabama. The corporation will be governed by a diverse board of directors appointed by state officials, including the Governor and the Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, and will have the authority to adopt bylaws, acquire property, and enter contracts for development. The bill also includes provisions to prevent conflicts of interest among board members and designates the corporation as an economic development organization under the Growing Alabama Act.

Key amendments in the bill expand the corporation's financial capabilities, allowing it to invest in securities, issue bonds, and engage in joint ventures, while removing previous restrictions on its financial activities. The bill permits counties and municipalities to transfer property to the corporation without voter approval, allows for the consumption of alcohol on its premises, and exempts the corporation from certain municipal ordinances. Additionally, it mandates biennial audits for compliance and ensures that the act's provisions are severable, taking effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40-9-14, 40-9-60
Enrolled: 40-9-14, 40-9-60