The bill amends Section 45-49-140.10 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the collection of fire service fees for maintaining firefighting districts in Mobile County. It introduces a definition for "residence" and makes various nonsubstantive updates to the legal language. Key changes include the removal of certain phrases regarding the lien on properties served by the firefighting system, clarifying that the lien is enforceable in the same manner as municipal assessments for public improvements. Additionally, it specifies that property owners of structures used solely as residences located on county lines may avoid service charges under certain conditions, including proof of agreements with other districts for fire and emergency services.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that in districts that levy service fees on residences, the fees will be collected from owners of various types of residential properties, including single-family homes, duplexes, apartments, and manufactured homes. It also allows for the retroactive application of the waiver of unpaid service charges if it does not significantly impact the district's financial viability. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45-49-140
Enrolled: 45-49-140