House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) tapped longtime State Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) to chair the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee as the outgoing chairman prepares to take on a staff role in the Senate.
The chairmanship was vacated after former House Majority Whip Randall Shedd (R-Fairview) announced his resignation to join the staff of new State Sen. Pro-Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman).
"Having served more than 30 years as a member of the Alabama House of Representatives, Rep. Clouse brings a wealth of experience and is an invaluable asset to the legislative body," Ledbetter said. "I am proud to appoint him to lead this important committee and appreciate his willingness to serve in this new capacity."
Clouse, who has been in the legislature for over three decades, has not held a chair position since losing his spot on the General Fund Budget Committee in November 2022, shortly after Ledbetter was elected speaker. Speculation abounded then that Clouse's removal came due to his vying for the speaker's position.
"The work of this committee plays a vital role in Alabama's economic success," Clouse said. "Businesses depend heavily on access to reliable utility infrastructure and the ability to efficiently transport goods from the point of production to the point of sale. I appreciate Speaker Ledbetter entrusting me to lead this committee and am eager to collaborate with my colleagues to continue paving the way for our state's success."
The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee reviews and advances legislation related to the state's transportation systems, public utilities, and infrastructure development. It also ensures the efficient maintenance and expansion of roads, bridges, energy services and communication networks across Alabama.
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