Alabama Legislature Advances Major Budget and PSC Reform Bills During 2026 Session

Alabama's state legislature advanced key priorities this week amid its 2026 regular session. According to the Alabama State Bar, 989 bills have been introduced, with the Senate passing the General Fund budget and the House approving the Education Trust Fund budget. Maynard Nexsen reports the House unanimously approved Representative Mack Butler's Public Service Commission reform bill, mandating rate hearings every three years and barring utilities from passing lobbying costs to customers. The Senate earlier passed Senator Clyde Chambliss's PSC overhaul to expand the commission to seven district-elected members. Other measures gaining traction include closed primaries legislation from Representative Ernie Yarbrough, now headed to the Senate, and data privacy protections advanced in committee. In business and economy news, Construction Partners announced a $20 million investment in a new Dothan headquarters and data center, per Made in Alabama. Congressman Shomari Figures secured over $3 million for Montgomery projects, including $2 million for Interstate 65 infrastructure via the Alabama Capital Maxwell Gateway and $1.65 million for tech innovation, according to Alabama Political Reporter. Small businesses can tap grants like Innovate Alabama up to $100,000 for tech and manufacturing, as noted by Wise.com. Community developments highlight education and infrastructure. Auburn University plans a $100 million residence hall to replace East Thach Hall, accommodating 680 students, per SPartnerships. Decatur partners with Calhoun Community College on a new athletic complex to boost northeast growth, reports the City of Decatur site. High-dollar permits include Coleman Coliseum expansion at the University of Alabama, via The Bama Buzz. No significant recent weather events reported. Looking Ahead, lawmakers recess for spring break, reconvening March 31 to tackle remaining bills in their 30-day session. Watch for final budget passage, data center tax reforms, and overtime tax deduction debates. Thank you for tuning in, listeners—please subscribe for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.