AL HB583

Amends Section 17-17-5 of the Code of Alabama to clarify that public funds may be used to pay staff members of legislative political caucuses to perform work related to the legislative process.

Defines legislative process work as including formulating and preparing policy for the caucus, analyzing issues under consideration by the Legislature, and formulating recommendations on issues before or likely to come before the caucus.

Applies the exemption to staff members of caucuses representing either the majority political party or minority political parties in either house of the Legislature.

Maintains existing prohibitions on government employees using public funds, property, or time for other political activities, including campaign contributions, political advertising, and political communications.

Becomes effective October 1, 2013, and passed the House of Representatives on April 25, 2013, with a vote of 94 Yeas, 0 Nays, and 0 Abstains.