The bill SB275 amends Sections 11-20-70 and 11-20-73 of the Code of Alabama 1975, enhancing the powers of county-established agriculture authorities. It introduces new legal language that allows these authorities to develop commercial facilities and raise revenue to support their mission, while also clarifying that their operational area cannot extend beyond county boundaries. The bill removes the requirement for articles of incorporation to specify an authorized operational area, enabling authorities to function without this detail. Additionally, it outlines the authority's powers to construct and operate facilities that promote agricultural and economic development, acquire property, accept gifts, hire professionals, and engage in financing agreements.

Moreover, SB275 expands the authority's ability to enter into various contracts and agreements, including design-build and leasing arrangements, with both public and private entities. It establishes that contract proposals can be evaluated based on qualifications or best value, a shift from previous procurement processes. The bill also specifies that contracts must be executed in the authority's name by designated officials, with obligations recoverable only against the authority unless otherwise agreed upon with the county commission. These amendments aim to enhance the operational capabilities of agriculture authorities, allowing them to engage more actively in commercial ventures to further their objectives, with the act set to take effect on June 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11-20-73
Engrossed: 11-20-70, 11-20-73, 11-20-70
Enrolled: 11-20-70, 11-20-73, 11-20-70