HB660 Alabama 2012 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Kerry Rich
Republican
Co-Sponsor: Wes Long
Session: Regular Session 2012
Title: Marshall Co., volunteer fire district, co. commission may establish volunteer fire districts, electors of district may call referendum specifying funding by meter fee or service fee
Summary: Marshall County can create volunteer fire districts and fund them through voter-approved fees (fire protection service fee, water meter fee, or electric meter fee), with exemptions for certain seniors and disabled.
What This Bill Does
The county commission may establish volunteer fire districts within the county that align with certified volunteer fire departments. Qualified electors in each district may call for a referendum to fund the district using one of three options: a fire protection service fee up to $120 per year on each occupied residence or business, a water meter fee up to $10 per month, or an electric meter fee up to $10 per month. If approved, the collecting entity distributes the proceeds to the district, minus an admin fee of up to 5%. New districts must have funding approved by voters in the same manner. Certain elderly or disabled residents with low income are exempt from these fees.

Who It Affects
Residents and businesses within the district boundaries and their utility customers (water and electric) would pay the chosen funding fee if the referendum passes, with funds collected by the designated authority and distributed to the volunteer fire district.
100% disabled or 65+ residents with net income of $7,500 or less would be exempt from paying the fire protection service/meter fees.

Key Provisions
County Commission may establish volunteer fire districts within Marshall County that match the service areas of Alabama Forestry Commission-certified volunteer fire departments.
Qualified electors in each district may call for a referendum to fund the district by fire protection service fee, water meter fee, or electric meter fee, including how they are collected and distributed.
If approved, the collecting entity may retain up to 5% as an administrative fee, and funds are distributed to the volunteer fire district; new districts require voter approval for funding.
Exemptions: 100% disabled or 65+ residents with net income of $7,500 or less may be exempt from the fees, with required proof.
Effective date: the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage/approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Marshall County