Ways & Means RM-617 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a prayer and roll call. The primary purpose was to discuss resolutions and the special order calendar for the following day. Representative Faulkner led the discussion on several resolutions, which were adopted in mass, including HGR 148, HGR 154, HGR 156, HGR 172, HGR 180, and SJR 51. Individual resolutions were then considered, starting with H.R. 181 by Daniels, designating March as Chronic Kidney Disease Awareness Month, which was adopted. Other resolutions included H.R. 153 declaring February 24, 2026, as Alabama Lynx Day, HCR 149 naming a highway in Conecuh County after Larry Ryland, and HCR 150 recognizing March 3, 2026, as Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated Day. All were adopted with motions and seconds from various members. Additional resolutions included HCR 151 commending Pam Swanner, HCR 152 commending Thomas A. Harris, SCR 158 honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and HCR 163 honoring Dr. Brad Russell. Each resolution was moved, seconded, and adopted. The meeting then transitioned to the House Ways and Means General Fund committee, where several bills were discussed. Representative Gibbons introduced a bill requiring the Department of Human Resources to request a waiver for SNAP benefits to allow the purchase of hot rotisserie chickens, which was carried over indefinitely. Representative Oliver presented a bill to prohibit balance billing for ground ambulance services, which received a favorable report after discussion about its implications for different insurance plans. Representative Brown introduced House Bill 444 regarding seafood country of origin labeling, which also received a favorable report. Senator Hatcher discussed a bill codifying the unclassified status of employees at the Governor's Mansion Authority, which was favorably reported. The committee then reviewed the 2026 supplemental appropriation recommendation from the Opioid Commission, detailing allocations to various departments and organizations aimed at addressing opioid issues, which received a favorable report. Senate Bill 58, concerning retirement contributions of public servants convicted of corruption, was also favorably reported. The meeting concluded with a discussion on state revenue trends, noting increases in various tax receipts, and was adjourned.