SJR17 Alabama 2025 Session

Updated Feb 23, 2026

Low Interest

Summary

Primary Sponsor: J.T. WaggonerSenator
Republican
Session: 2025 Regular Session
Title: Judge Carole Smitherman, commended
Summary: SJR17 is a joint resolution commending Judge Carole Smitherman on her retirement and recognizing her public service.
What This Bill Does
If enacted, it would formally honor Judge Carole Smitherman on retirement from the Jefferson County Circuit Court, Civil Division. The resolution highlights her trailblazing career and list of major roles—such as Deputy District Attorney, Birmingham Municipal Judge, first woman of color Circuit Court Judge in Alabama, and Birmingham City Council president—and notes her work founding the Victim Assistance Program. It also expresses admiration and best wishes for her future endeavors.

Who It Affects
Judge Carole Smitherman – receives formal commendation and recognition of her retirement.
Alabama residents and public institutions – gain awareness of her contributions to the state's legal system and government, and reflect on her legacy.

Key Provisions
Commends Judge Carole Smitherman on retirement from the Jefferson County Circuit Court, Civil Division.
Recognizes her as a trailblazer and notes historic firsts in Alabama's legal and political arenas.
Lists career milestones, including Deputy District Attorney, Birmingham Municipal Judge, first woman of color Circuit Court Judge in Alabama, prosecutor for Irondale, Constitutional Law professor, Birmingham City Council member and president, and Mayor of Birmingham, plus founding the county's Victim Assistance Program.
Expresses admiration and best wishes for her continued success in future endeavors.

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