The bill amends Sections 41-6-3 and 41-6-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which pertain to the Department of Archives and History and its Board of Trustees. Key changes include a revised composition of the board, which will now consist of one member from each congressional district as they existed on January 1, 2025, in addition to nine at-large members and the Governor or their designee. The bill outlines the process for filling vacancies, specifying that appointments made by the Governor will require consideration by the Senate Committee on Confirmations. It also clarifies the terms for newly appointed members, stating that those succeeding expired terms will serve a full six-year term, while those filling vacancies due to death, resignation, or removal will serve only the unexpired term. The bill emphasizes the importance of diversity in the board's membership and establishes that a majority will constitute a quorum for meetings.

Additionally, the bill replaces the term "trustees" with "Members of the board" and stipulates that these members will not receive compensation for their services but will be reimbursed for per diem and travel expenses according to state employee regulations. It grants the board the authority to adopt governance rules, elect a director, appoint officials, publish historical materials, and manage appropriations for the department's maintenance. The bill also streamlines the language regarding the board's powers by removing certain phrases, such as "such" and "other acts." The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, following its passage in the House of Representatives with a vote of 61 in favor, 35 against, and 6 abstentions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-6-3, 41-6-4
Engrossed: 41-6-3, 41-6-4