HB95 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Steve McMillan

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Fair Ballot Commission created, membership and terms provided for, require Secretary of State provide explanation of measures and post on website, Alabama Informed Voter Act created

Summary

The Alabama Informed Voter Act creates a Fair Ballot Commission to provide neutral, plain-language explanations of statewide ballot measures and post them on the Legislature’s website before elections.

What This Bill Does

It establishes a 15-member Fair Ballot Commission, with appointed officials and private citizens, to prepare statements explaining what a yes or no vote means. The statements must be posted on the Legislature's website 60 days before a statewide vote and include the measure text, sponsors, related legislation, ballot placement, and a plain-language summary including tax impact and funding. If the commission cannot agree on a statement, an explanation is posted and the agreed-upon portions are published, with links to other resources and, under certain conditions, individual supporter/opponent statements as well. The bill also requires printing and distributing the statements like sample ballots, with 55 days before the vote for printed copies, and allows external links and time-limited, author-supported/opposed statements from lawmakers.

Who It Affects

• Voters statewide: would receive neutral, plain-language Ballot Statements that explain the effects and tax implications of statewide measures, accessible online and in printed form where applicable.
• State and local election administration and government bodies: would establish and support the Fair Ballot Commission, produce and post Ballot Statements, manage printing and distribution, and handle related staffing and funding requirements.

Key Provisions

• Creates The Alabama Informed Voter Act and the Fair Ballot Commission (15 members, including designated state officials and private citizens; terms; diversity requirements; non-salary status with travel reimbursement; clerical support).
• Requires Ballot Statements to be posted 60 days before statewide votes on the Legislature's website, including the measure text, sponsors, related legislation, ballot placement, and a plain-language summary with tax/funding information and effects if passed or defeated.
• Mandates statements be neutral, true, and non-argumentative; if a majority cannot agree, posts an explanation and only the portions agreed upon, plus links to other resources and individual statements as allowed.
• Requires printing and distribution of Ballot Statements (like sample ballots) and availability of printed copies at the Secretary of State and probate offices at least 55 days before the vote, with potential printing fees; permits linking to external websites and posting individual supporter/opponent statements within specified word limits and deadlines.

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

Subjects

Elections