SB263 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tom ButlerSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

County Superintendent of Education, required to be appointed unless provided otherwise by constitution

Summary

SB263 would require county superintendents of education to be appointed by the county board of education, with a transitional path for elected superintendents.

What This Bill Does

It changes how county superintendents are chosen from elections to appointments by the county board of education, except where the Constitution allows otherwise. The appointment rule takes effect when an elected term ends or a vacancy occurs after January 1, 2025. During the transition, boards may contract with an elected superintendent for an additional term without the usual posting or selection procedures, with specific deadlines for terms ending in 2022 or 2024. The act becomes effective immediately upon the Governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• County boards of education, who would be responsible for appointing county superintendents rather than electing them.
• County superintendents (current and future), who would shift from election to appointment, with a transitional option to extend an elected term by contract during the transition.

Key Provisions

• Provision 1: Requires all county superintendents to be appointed by the county board of education, except as otherwise provided by the Constitution of Alabama 1901.
• Provision 2: Establishes transition rules—appointment becomes required at term expiration or vacancy after January 1, 2025, allows boards to contract with an elected superintendent for an additional term without posting/selection, and sets deadlines for notification for terms ending in 2022 or 2024; the act is effective immediately.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 23, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education