The bill amends Section 9-10B-7 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically regarding the management structure of the Office of Water Resources. It replaces the term "headed" with "managed" and removes the previous designation of the position as "Division Chief of the Alabama Office of Water Resources." Instead, it establishes that the division chief will be appointed by the director with the Governor's approval and will report directly to the director. The bill also clarifies that the division chief will be responsible for carrying out the functions and duties of the Office of Water Resources and must possess knowledge in water resource management, development, and conservation.

Additionally, the bill changes the employment status of the division chief from a state Merit System employee to one in the exempt service, which may allow for greater flexibility in hiring and management. It removes provisions regarding the salary setting and the process for filling vacancies, while also eliminating the option for the director to appoint an acting division chief. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9-10B-7
Enrolled: 9-10B-7