MONTGOMERY — Legislation establishing a scholarship program for children and spouses of long-serving law enforcement officers passed the Alabama House of Representatives on Wednesday.
Sponsored by State Rep. Allen Treadaway (R-Morris), HB 98 creates the Alabama Law Enforcement Officers’ Family Scholarship Program.
According to House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter’s (R-Rainsville) office, the scholarship may be used at participating public or private institutions in Alabama and covers tuition, required fees, and educational materials, after other aid is applied.
The program will be administered by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, with annual reporting to ensure accountability and transparency. The bill also establishes a distinctive blackout license plate, with proceeds supporting the scholarship fund.
“Being pro-law enforcement not only means supporting the men and women who wear the badge, but also stepping up to support their families,” said Ledbetter. “Over the last two sessions, the House has led in passing legislation solidifying Alabama as one of the most pro-law enforcement states in the nation.”
He added, “Our police officers, sheriff’s deputies, state troopers, and every other law enforcement professional deserve nothing less than our full support, and I urge the Alabama State Senate to get this bill passed.”
Treadaway, a retired police officer with over 30 years of experience, touted the scholarship program provided in HB 98.
“People tend to forget that behind every badge is a family that depends on the man or woman who wears it,” said Treadaway. “For 31 years, I served as a police officer and witnessed every day the sacrifices my family made to support me and the safety of our community.”
“This is the reality for every law enforcement family, and I firmly believe this legislation is a well-deserved and long overdue thank you to these spouses and children,” he concluded.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Officers' Family Scholarship Act was included in last session’s Safe Alabama Package.
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