County Commission | The Magazine January February 2018

Word to the Wise If you have a question about the legislative process, don’t be afraid to ask. The legislative process is like the most bizarre football game you can think of – with players trying to move footballs, basketballs, tennis balls and golf balls down the field, all at the same time, with different rules for each one. Sounds crazy, doesn’t it? Like I said before, don’t be afraid to ask if you have a question. The technicalities can make you or break you. – Steve McKinnon • GENERAL BILL The most common type of legislation. Proposes a new law or changes existing law. Applies to the entire state. • GENERAL CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Also applies to the whole state. Proposes a change to the Constitution of Alabama. After going through both chambers of the legislature, skips the governor’s desk and goes straight to voters, who get to settle the question. • LOCAL BILL Applies to one county or one city. Must be advertised ahead of time. Goes through a completely separate committee process – with different rules – from a general bill. Needs unanimous support from local legislators. • LOCAL CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Proposes a change to the state constitution that applies only to one county or one city. No advance advertising. Moves through the same committee process as a local bill. Needs unanimous support from local legislators. Ultimately decided by voters, usually only in the affected local area. COUNTY COMMISSION | 5

County Commission | The Magazine January February 2018 | Page 5