SB186 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Kirk HatcherSenator

Democrat

Co-Sponsor

Will Barfoot

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Port Authority, authorized to build and operate internmodal and multi-modal transfer facilities, Secs. 33-1-16, 33-1-31am'd.

Summary

SB186 broadens the Alabama Port Authority’s powers to build and operate intermodal and multi-modal facilities and expands what counts as a docks facility beyond navigable waterways.

What This Bill Does

The bill allows the Alabama Port Authority to acquire, own, lease, locate, install, construct, maintain, and operate intermodal and multi-modal transfer facilities and related rail infrastructure at seaports and other locations in the state, including connecting to and operating with terminal railroads. It also broadens the definition of docks facilities so they are not limited to locations on navigable rivers or waterways. Additionally, the bill requires the port authority to negotiate wage and working-condition agreements for certain railroad workers under the Railway Labor Act and to have authority to move freight and passengers as a common carrier would.

Who It Affects

• The Alabama Port Authority and state seaports/inland locations, which gain expanded authority to build, own, lease, locate, install, construct, maintain, and operate intermodal and multi-modal facilities and related rail infrastructure.
• Railroad workers (e.g., locomotive engineers, firemen, switchmen, foremen, hostlers) and railroad employers who would be subject to wage, seniority, and working-condition agreements under the Railway Labor Act, as well as entities involved in connecting and operating terminal railroads.

Key Provisions

• Provision expands the port authority’s powers to acquire, own, lease, locate, install, construct, maintain, control, and operate intermodal and multi-modal transfer facilities, yard tracks, bridges, and related rail infrastructure at seaports and other state locations, including the right to connect to and operate with terminal railroads.
• Provision broadens the definition of 'docks facilities' to no longer be limited to facilities located along navigable rivers, streams, or waterways, enabling a wider range of facilities to be treated as docks facilities and managed under port authority authority.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Port AuthoritiesTransportation