HJR832 Summary

• Establishes the Alabama Innovation Council Study Commission consisting of 26 members including presidents of eight Alabama universities, 16 business leaders appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House, and two advisory members from the Legislature and Alabama Commission on Higher Education.

• Commission membership must reflect the racial, gender, geographic, urban/rural, and economic diversity of the state, with a report to the Legislature by the second legislative day of the 2011 Regular Session on diversity compliance.

• Directs the Commission to study all aspects of creating a statewide innovation council, including its potential to attract science and technology companies, create jobs, foster economic growth, and make Alabama a leader in innovation and research.

• Requires an interim report by December 1, 2010, and a final report with proposed legislative instruments by the first legislative day of the 2011 Regular Session, after which the Commission dissolves.

• Authorizes the Commission to solicit and expend private funds and employ staff (non-state employees), while members serve without compensation; directs the Legislature and its offices to provide necessary assistance.