2008 Session Begins Tuesday

As the legislative session opens this week, I perceive a shift in emphasis from the degree of partisan friction to budget shortfalls. There is much concern that the level of anticipated revenue increases that were factored into the ‘08 budget will not materialize. That means that unpleasant cuts in both the General Fund and Education budgets are certain. It is difficult to have to explain to needy state agencies who ask for an increase in funding that their budgets will most likely be cut.

There are many bills that died last year that need to be passed. I have several bills that I will intruduce this week. None of which is more important than the “Aggravated DUI” bill. This bill which will be introduced in the House by Rep. Spencer Collier will make tougher penalties for those drivers tested with a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or more. It will also allow prosecutors to use DUI offenses committed prior to 5 years. (this seals an unintended loophole that has frustrated many district attorneys)

Another very important bill is being sponsored by Sen. Ben Brooks dealing with insurance coverage reform. Sen. Brooks has put an enormous amount of time and effort on this bill which is crucial for homeowners living on or near the coast. Senators Tripp Pittman of Baldwin County, Vivian Davis Figures, Brooks, and myself of Mobile County will be busy this year to convince our colleagues of the urgency for this needed reform. (more details of the bill will follow)