AL HB33

Amends Section 17-16-2 of the Alabama Code to clarify that advertising, media, telephone, computer, and communications operation expenses are reimbursable state election expenses for counties recognizing Mardi Gras as a holiday when the presidential preference primary falls on Mardi Gras.

Applies retroactively to the February 5, 2008 presidential preference primary election to allow Mobile County and Baldwin County to seek reimbursement for expenses already incurred under Act 2007-461.

Authorizes counties to expend up to $25,000 for telephone, computer, and communications operations and up to $100,000 for advertising and media expenses when implementing special absentee and early voting provisions for Mardi Gras election dates.

Allows qualified electors in affected counties to vote absentee ballots without travel restrictions and to vote on the Wednesday preceding the election when Mardi Gras falls on the election date.

Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor with retroactive application to the 2008 presidential preference primary.