Rep. Jim Carns

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution honoring the life and death of Phillip Edward Hinkle, a resident of Homewood, Alabama, who passed away on March 10, 2026. It records the House of Representatives' sadness at his death and celebrates his contributions to the family business, community, and outdoor sports. The resolution extends sympathy to his surviving family members, including his wife, children, grandchildren, and other relatives. It serves as a formal tribute rather than creating new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Alabama municipalities to pass new or increased taxes and fees through a formal ordinance rather than allowing them to be imposed without this specific legislative process. It mandates that councils provide at least 30 days' public notice before holding a hearing on such tax measures, with the notice published in local newspapers and on municipal and state websites. The law also sets different voting thresholds for council approval depending on city size, requiring a majority of the entire council including the mayor for smaller towns and a majority of elected members for larger cities. These requirements take effect on October 1, 2026, and apply to all municipalities in Alabama.

Maddy summaryHJR 158 is a symbolic resolution by the Alabama Legislature honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It commends former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett for his work promoting "virtue education" through his books, and encourages Alabama schools to consider incorporating character and virtue education into their curriculum. The resolution has no binding effect and does not mandate any changes to school programs. It is purely ceremonial, reflecting the legislature's support for educational values aligned with Bennett's advocacy.

Maddy summaryHJR 163 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Dr. Brad F. Russell for 25 years of service as a chiropractic physician in Alabama. It recognizes his career achievements, including founding multiple clinics, serving on state chiropractic boards, and contributions to chiropractic education and policy. The resolution expresses legislative appreciation for his work but does not create any new laws, funding, or policy changes. It directly affects no individuals or entities beyond the ceremonial acknowledgment of Dr. Russell's professional service.

Maddy summaryHJR 128 is a ceremonial resolution commending former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett for his contributions to advancing "virtue and education." It amends an existing resolution commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence to specifically include this commendation. The bill does not create new laws or affect any policies, programs, or individuals beyond honoring Bennett. As a procedural resolution, it is currently pending committee review in the House.

Maddy summaryHB 455 amends Alabama law to allow the Contract Review Permanent Legislative Oversight Committee to formally recommend that the Governor not sign certain state contracts. The committee currently reviews contracts for personal or professional services paid from state funds (over $50,000), and this bill adds the specific authority to advise against signing such contracts. It does not give the committee veto power - only a recommendation - and applies to state departments seeking to enter these contracts. The change updates existing code language to clarify the committee's role during its review process. The bill is pending further legislative action and would take effect on October 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 144 authorizes Vestavia Hills' city council to establish up to five designated entertainment districts within the city. Within these districts, businesses with on-premises alcohol licenses can sell alcoholic beverages for consumption anywhere in the district, not just at specific venues. This bill directly affects Vestavia Hills residents, local businesses operating in entertainment zones, and visitors who would be permitted to consume alcohol freely throughout the designated areas. The key change is expanding where alcohol consumption is allowed within legally defined zones, streamlining the process for the city council to create these districts.

Maddy summaryHB 272 modifies how Alabama counties publish voter registration lists. It allows county judges of probate to use alternative methods (like posting in public buildings, making lists available at their office, or publishing online) if the cost of newspaper publication exceeds $40,000 before 2030. Starting in 2030, this cost threshold will automatically increase each year based on the Consumer Price Index. The bill also freezes newspaper publishing fees for these lists at 2024 election rates until 2030, preventing publishers from raising prices during that period.

Maddy summaryHB 343 amends the General Retirement System for Employees of Jefferson County, primarily by removing the link between an employee's civil service classification and their eligibility to participate in the plan. Beginning October 1, 2025, most eligible employees of Jefferson County will automatically become mandatory members of the retirement system and be required to make contributions. However, individuals elected or appointed to full-time county offices and part-time county employees will retain their status as optional members, allowing them to choose whether to join the system. The bill also includes minor technical updates to the existing code language.

Maddy summaryHR 363 is a commemorative resolution mourning the death and celebrating the life of John Anthony Karagas of Birmingham, Alabama. It expresses deep sadness at his passing and extends heartfelt sympathy to his family.