This bill amends Sections 45-2-190 and 45-2-244.183 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically addressing the Baldwin County Legislative Office Fund and the distribution of the privilege license tax. The amendments establish the Baldwin County Legislative Office and outline the responsibilities of the Baldwin County Commission in providing necessary resources for the legislative delegation. Notably, the bill introduces a new Baldwin County Legislative Office Fund, which will be used for the establishment, operation, and maintenance of the legislative office. Disbursements from this fund will require the direction of a majority of the legislative delegation members, and any unspent balance at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to other funds. Additionally, if the fund exceeds $300,000, up to $100,000 may be allocated to the Baldwin County Historic Development Commission for capital improvements.

The bill also revises the distribution of the privilege license tax collected in Baldwin County. It specifies that 75% of the tax will go to the county general fund, with $200,000 earmarked annually for the operation of the Baldwin County Legislative Office. Other allocations include 12% for historic sites, 8% for economic development, and 1.5% for the Baldwin County Historic Development Commission. The bill clarifies that expenses for official travel by legislative members will be subject to specific limits and audits by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45-2-190, 45-2-244