The bill amends Sections 36-25-14 and 36-25-15 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the requirements for candidates filing statements of economic interests with the State Ethics Commission. It mandates that all candidates file their statements in accordance with Section 36-25-15, rather than on the date they submit their qualifying papers, as was previously required. The bill also clarifies that public employees earning less than $75,000 annually are not required to file these statements. Additionally, it introduces a provision allowing undercover law enforcement officers to keep their residential addresses and family member names confidential for safety reasons. The language regarding the reporting of economic interests is revised, including the deletion of "one third" in favor of "one-third" for clarity.

Moreover, the bill establishes new categorical amounts for reporting real estate holdings, annual gross rent and lease income, and indebtedness to businesses operating in Alabama. Public officials must categorize their real estate holdings based on fair market value ranges, and if they receive rent from a governmental agency, they must disclose specific details of the agreement. The timeline for candidates to file their statements of economic interests is modified, requiring submission within five days of the deadline to file a declaration of candidacy. Non-compliance will result in the candidate being deemed unqualified for the election, although a five-day extension may be granted for good cause. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 36-25-14, 36-25-15
Enrolled: 36-25-14, 36-25-15