AL HB660

Amends Section 12-1-23 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand reasonable accommodations in court proceedings to include jurors, in addition to plaintiffs, defendants, parties, and witnesses.

Requires courts (district, circuit, appellate, and grand jury) to make reasonable accommodations for special services or equipment needed by disabled persons as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (P.L. 101-366).

All costs for special services or equipment must be approved in advance by the court and forwarded by the clerk to the State Comptroller for payment from the State General Fund under "court assessed costs not provided for."

Allows courts to tax accommodation costs against one or more parties for immediate payment or require reimbursement to the state at a later date, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

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