The Alabama House Republican caucus has ratified its "Alabama Values" legislative agenda in the upcoming session, prioritizing specific conservative initiatives for the state's Republican supermajority to push in 2025.
The agenda was assembled by an ad hoc platform committee of GOP House members co-chaired by State Rep. Kerry "Bubba" Underwood (R-Tuscumbia) and State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville). The whole caucus ratified the committee's recommendation, setting up the party to prioritize specific agendas when lawmakers gather in Montgomery in early February to gavel in for the 2025 legislative session.
"Because our Republican members came forward with so many quality bills, measures, and proposals that deserved inclusion, the agenda committee decided to outline broad principles in our agenda rather than individual pieces of legislation," Underwood and Lomax said in a joint statement. "At the end of the session, we will detail a list of the Republican-sponsored bills passed by the House that fit within the framework of each category of our agenda."
With the session beginning in just one week, the caucus did not mention any specific bills. However, more and more will continue to be filed as the session ramps off.
First on the "Alabama Values" list is job creation and workforce participation.
In a release, the caucus stated, "Too many able-bodied residents still refuse to enter the workforce and contribute economically." In response, House Republicans intend to "redouble" efforts to push more people into Alabama's workforce."
"The 'Alabama Values' name represents the conservative beliefs and values that most Alabamians embrace, but, at the same time, it also represents the morals and principles that we 'value' as a people," said House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle). "Our caucus members stand unanimous in support of this agenda, and we look forward to promoting these conservative ideas and beliefs throughout the upcoming session and beyond."
The "Alabama Values" legislative package also prioritizes election integrity, border security, care for servicemembers and veterans, bolstering public education, increasing support for pro-life organizations, and advancing "common sense."
"Most Alabamians embrace conservative common sense, but in recent years, liberal groups with fringe agendas, activist judges, and federal agencies operating far outside their mandates have attempted to implement rulings, regulations, and requirements that run counter to the beliefs we hold," a release from the caucus reads. "Alabama House Republicans will continue pushing back against 'woke' policies and radical efforts that attack our morals and work to change the fundamental beliefs that make our state such a special place to live, work, worship, and raise families."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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