SB319 Alabama 2024 Session

Updated Feb 23, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Greg AlbrittonSenator
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2024
Title: State agencies; settlement agreements for claims against the state restricted when funds not available
Summary: SB319 would stop state agencies from settling claims against the state unless there are funds to pay the full settlement, and would require advance notice to top officials if funds are not available.
What This Bill Does
It would prohibit state agencies from executing a settlement or consent decree unless there are sufficient funds to pay the full amount owed. If funds are not sufficient, the agency must provide the proposed settlement terms to specified public officials at least 90 days before entering into the settlement. The bill also defines state agency and settlement to include settlements, compromises, or consent decrees related to claims against a state agency and any resulting changes in practices. It takes effect on October 1, 2024.

Who It Affects
State agencies (departments, boards, commissions, and bureaus) by requiring they have funds available to pay full settlement amounts before settling claims against the state.
Governor, Attorney General, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, chairs of certain House and Senate committees, the Finance Director, and the Director of the Legislative Services Agency by receiving proposed settlement terms at least 90 days in advance when funds are not sufficient.

Key Provisions
No settlement or consent decree may be executed unless the agency has sufficient funds to pay the full amount owed.
If funds are not sufficient, the agency must provide the proposed settlement terms to specified public officials at least 90 days before entering into the settlement.
Definitions: 'state agency' includes all departments, agencies, boards, commissions, or bureaus; 'settlement' includes any compromise of a claim, consent decree, or changes in practices.
Effective date: October 1, 2024.

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