The bill SB194 amends Section 11-20-73 of the Code of Alabama 1975, granting agriculture authorities the power to terminate or relocate easements on property owned by the authority using the same power of eminent domain as the state. This new provision is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of agriculture authorities, enabling them to manage their properties more effectively to support agricultural development. The bill also allows agriculture authorities to purchase or obtain items on the statewide public contract list compiled by the Chief Procurement Officer, while retaining existing powers such as property acquisition, accepting gifts, and entering into contracts for construction and development projects. Additionally, the bill outlines tax exemptions for agriculture authorities, including exemptions from state, county, and municipal sales and use taxes, as well as ad valorem taxes. It mandates that any sales tax proceeds collected by the authority or its contractors be rebated back to the authority by local taxing authorities, with an option for county commissions to opt-out for private entities after a specified date. The act also includes a provision for the rebate of state lodging taxes collected by the authority. The amendments aim to streamline operations and facilitate the establishment of agriculture centers that support agricultural, cultural, and workforce development interests, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11-20-73