SB242 Approved by Senate Committee
Tuesday afternoon, March 25, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee approved SB 242, the legislation that would authorize the sheriff to shift budgeted funds between line items and sidestep the county commission's budgeting process. The legislation presents a VERY dangerous threat to the county commission's ability to plan for a financially-sound budget. Stopping this legislation is the Association's top priority for the remainder of this session.
The bill was approved by the committee on a 6-3 vote following a plea from its sponsor, Sen. Steve French, who pledged not to allow the bill to reach the Senate floor until all opposition to the measure is resolved. The favorable vote was also obviously influenced by a committee room that was packed with sheriffs from throughout the state.
Those voting in favor of the bill were Sens. Larry Dixon, Scott Beason, Jabo Waggoner, Wendell Mitchell, Linda Coleman and Larry Means. Those voting against the legislation were Jim Preuitt, Vivian Figures and Kim Benefield.
Appreciation is expressed to those three Senators who voted against the legislation and to Sen. Means, who worked to extract a public commitment that the legislation will not reach the floor until the ACCA's opposition is resolved. County officials are also encouraged to thank those who stood with the counties during the committee meeting.
At this point, it is important that county officials turn their attention to the Senate Rules Committee. The legislation cannot and will not reach the Senate floor unless it is placed on a "Special Order Calendar" by the Rules Committee. The members of this committee are listed below.
County officials should contact the members immediately to express opposition to the bill. It is important that all Senators -- even those not on the Rules Committee -- be asked to block the consideration of the bill on the Senate floor. All Senators can be reached by calling (334) 242-7800. It is important that calls be made regarding ths bill on Wednesday. If your Senator is not available, please leave a message that you are asking that he or she oppose SB 242.
Senate Rules Committee: Chairman Sen. Lowell Barron, members: Sens. Lindsey, Ted Little, Bedford, Butler, Denton, Figures, French, Griffith, Mitchem, Ross, Smith, Smitherman, Mitchell, Zeb Little and Bishop.
A number of county officials were also in attendance during the meeting, including ACCA President Jerold Dean. The presence and support of county officials is very important if this legislation is to be defeated this session. The ACCA staff appreciates very much the strong support of those county officials who came to Montgomery and made contacts "back home."
If you have questions or comments, please feel free to contact the ACCA office at (334) 263-7594.
