Senate Bill 349 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris ElliottSenator

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Baldwin County; removing certain requirements for rescue squads to receive tobacco tax proceeds distribution

Summary

SB349 would modify Baldwin County's tobacco tax proceeds distribution, removing a requirement for rescue squads to receive funds.

What This Bill Does

The bill amends Section 45-2-244.134 to allocate tobacco tax proceeds in Baldwin County: the first $80,000 is distributed equally among rescue squads authorized by the county, with each recipient being a Baldwin County recognized quasi-public entity and in good standing with the Alabama Association of Rescue Squads, Inc.; rescue squads receiving ad valorem tax funds under Section 45-2-242 are excluded from this distribution. The next $40,000 goes to the Baldwin County District Attorney for the creation and maintenance of a sexual assault nurse examiner program. The remaining funds go to the Baldwin County District Attorney's Office. The act becomes effective on October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects

• Rescue squads authorized by the Baldwin County Commission that meet the eligibility criteria (quasi-public entity status and AARS membership).
• Rescue squads that receive ad valorem tax funds under Section 45-2-242 are excluded from the first-distribution portion.
• The Baldwin County District Attorney's Office receives $40,000 for a sexual assault nurse examiner program, with the remainder going to the DA's office.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 45-2-244.134 to change Baldwin County tobacco tax proceeds distribution.
• First $80,000 distributed evenly among authorized rescue squads; squads must be Baldwin County recognized quasi-public entities and in good standing with the Alabama Association of Rescue Squads, Inc. (and those receiving ad valorem funds under 45-2-242 are excluded).
• Next $40,000 distributed to the District Attorney for a sexual assault nurse examiner program.
• Remaining funds distributed to the Baldwin County District Attorney's Office.
• Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano-2025-08-07 on Mar 10, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Baldwin County