The Alabama Legislature has resumed a special session on a budget shortfall the same way it began three weeks ago, with no consensus on what to do. Governor Robert Bentley is asking lawmakers to approve$302 in taxes to avoid deep cuts in government services. But the Republican leader of the Alabama Senate Monday said there's little support among senators for raising taxes. The state operating budget is facing a shortfall of at least $200 million.
Work Begins
The first committee meeting of the special session took on a full slate of issues. A bill to abolish marriage licenses in Alabama received approval by the Senate Finance and Taxation General Fund Committee. The licenses would be replaced with contracts at probate offices. Republican Senator Greg Albritton is sponsoring the bill. Because the bill is outside the scope of the governor's call, it will require a two-thirds vote to pass in a special session.
PSC Challenge
Former Public Service Commissioner Terry Dunn, who drew political pushback after fighting for a review of power rates, is seeking a return to office. Dunn announced he will challenge PSC President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh in 2016. Both Dunn and Cavanaugh are Republicans. Dunn says the utility-regulating board needs more transparency and someone who will look out for consumers.
2015 National Night Out
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department is teaming up with WVAS FM and the town of Pike Road to host a community safety event coinciding with "National Night Out." Pike is one of more than 16,000 communities across the nation that will be taking part in Tuesday's national campaign. The event will be held at the Pike Road City Hall, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. The Montgomery Fire Department will also be participating.