The bill amends Section 11-32-7 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand the powers of transit authorities in counties with populations of 600,000 or more. Key provisions authorize these authorities to engage in business organizations related to transit operations, land acquisitions, and other incidental activities, including the creation of subsidiaries and the arrangement of loans for business purposes. Notably, the bill clarifies that these business organizations will not have the power of eminent domain and specifies that transit authorities cannot acquire any transportation systems currently providing public service without the owner's consent. Additionally, it revises Section 11-32-2 to align with these changes and includes technical updates to existing code language.

Significant changes include the insertion of "U.S.C. § 134" and "49 U.S.C. § 53" to replace the deleted references to "Title 23" and "Title 49 of the United States Code." The bill also establishes a Transportation Community Advisory Board (TCAB) to ensure diverse representation in advisory support for the authority. Other modifications include the removal of "and regulations" from the code of ethics provisions, limits on the authority's liability for damages, and a broader definition of "authorizing county" that now includes counties with populations below 600,000. The bill aims to enhance the operational flexibility and governance of public transportation services in Alabama, with an effective date set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11-32-7, 11-32-2, 11-32-7