SB97 Summary

• Amends nine sections of Alabama Code (2-8-19, 2-8-59, 2-8-99, 2-8-166, 2-8-207, 2-8-248, 2-8-288, 2-8-323, 2-8-363) governing agricultural assessment and promotion programs for cattle, swine, soybeans, eggs, cotton, grain, catfish, sheep, goats, and shrimp industries.

• Changes audit requirements for certified associations from annual to biennial (every two years), with audits conducted by certified public accountants covering the two-year period.

• Requires financial statements to be submitted to the State Board of Agriculture and Industries within 90 days after fiscal year close, showing amounts received and spent for each project and item, available for public inspection.

• Authorizes the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts to audit and investigate fund receipts and disbursements in the same manner as state agencies and departments, with all audits open to public inspection.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.