Lt. Gov. Ainsworth says bold new legislation protects bases, veterans, and Alabama jobs
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
In a sweeping move to strengthen Alabama’s military infrastructure and protect those who serve, the state Legislature has approved a powerful package of 12 bipartisan bills aimed at boosting veterans’ services, defending military bases, and enhancing the state’s position in the national defense economy.
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, who chairs the Alabama Military Stability Commission, said the legislation is more than economic policy—it’s a promise.
“Passing these bills creates jobs, grows our economy, and protects Alabama’s military bases,” Ainsworth said. “But, more importantly, it fulfills what I believe is a moral obligation to support soldiers and service members of the past, present, and future.”
The legislative package, crafted by the Alabama Military Stability Commission—a team of state leaders and defense community advocates—focuses on protecting and expanding the presence of U.S. Department of Defense assets throughout Alabama.
Key bills include:
• SB70 – Establishes the Alabama Veterans Resource Center to help transitioning service members with jobs, education, mental health, and benefits.
• SB200 – Expands Veterans Treatment Courts statewide, integrating them into Alabama’s new Accountability Court system.
• SB59 – Allows military families to use military medical records for school vaccinations, reducing enrollment barriers.
• SB91 – Strengthens base protections by restricting tall structure construction near military sites.
• SB206 – Applies state consumer protections to companies that exploit veterans seeking benefits.
• HJR22 – Expands the Purple Star Schools Program to include private schools supporting military children.
• SB181 & SB61 – Enroll Alabama in national licensing compacts to ease job transfers for military spouses in respiratory care and psychology.
• SB104 – Updates the Military Stability Commission membership.
• HJR66 – Shows strong legislative support for basing the new KC-46A aircraft at Birmingham’s 117th Air Refueling Wing.
• SB179 – Modernizes the Alabama Code of Military Justice, aligning with National Guard needs.
• SB198 – Clarifies the scope of legal support Judge Advocate Generals provide to both military and civilian personnel.
Ainsworth highlighted Alabama’s ongoing role as a national leader in military legislation.
“We were among the first to ensure occupational license reciprocity for military dependents,” he said. “These new laws continue that momentum.”
With federal military installations across Alabama contributing billions to the state economy, the legislation is expected to protect existing assets and position the state for future growth and missions.
“We will always do everything in our power to ensure Alabama remains the most military-friendly state in the nation,” Ainsworth pledged.