State Sen. Pro-Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman) announced on Friday that he has pre-filed legislation for the 2026 regular session that will repeal Senate Bill 322, block the annexation of land and prevent the creation of a community development district for a proposed resort project on Smith Lake.
Senate Bill 322 by State Sen. Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills) and Gudger outlined a possible resort project including golf courses, restaurants, a hotel and other outdoor activities.
The bill sailed through both the House and Senate in the 2025 session. It was signed into law by Ivey in May. However, the new law was opposed by many in the area and has been a large issue in multiple recent House special elections in Cullman County.
“Residents in the Smith Lake area have made it clear that this is the wrong project in the wrong place with the wrong incentives, and it is my job as state senator to stand tall for my constituents’ beliefs and desires,” Gudger said. “Cullman County is a special place to live, work, worship and raise families, and we have to preserve the unique qualities that make it so special.”
Gudger pledged to make quick passage of his repeal legislation a top priority during the 2026 regular session, which convenes in January.
“Issues that are important to the residents of my district are issues that are important to me, and I pledge that this repeal will be passed by the Senate and sent to the House as soon as possible,” Gudger said. “All of us who hold public office have a deep obligation to represent the citizens we swore an oath to serve.”
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