SB81 Alabama 2018 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

High Interest

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Gerald O. Dial
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2018
Title: Clay Co., co. courthouse, removal of state courts from historical Clay Co. Courthouse prohibited, const. amend.
Summary: Clay County would adopt a local constitutional amendment to keep the state courts at the historic Clay County Courthouse and prevent moving them as long as the building remains standing and usable.
What This Bill Does
If the amendment is ratified, state courts in Clay County may not be moved from the current historic courthouse, provided the building stays standing and habitable. The bill also describes the courthouse as a historic landmark and notes it houses the Hugo L. Black Courtroom. It requires an election to approve the amendment under Alabama law, with specific ballot language.

Who It Affects
Clay County residents and taxpayers, who would retain the courthouse and state court location as a historic asset and service site
State courts located in Clay County and courthouse staff, whose work location would be permanently tied to the historic courthouse if the building remains standing

Key Provisions
Prohibits removal of the state courts from the present location at the historic Clay County Courthouse in Clay County, as long as the courthouse is standing and habitable
Requires a local constitutional amendment be approved by voters in Clay County; sets election procedures and ballot description for the amendment

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