HJR 490 Summary

• Creates an Interim Study Commission on Mechanics Lien to comprehensively review and overhaul Alabama's mechanics' and materialmen's lien statutes, which have remained substantially unchanged since the late 1800s with only amendments in 1933 and 1990.

• Commission composed of 10 members including one state representative, one state senator, and representatives from general contractors, bankers, concrete industry, title insurance, realtors, builders, and subcontractors appointed by their respective associations, plus one person appointed by the Alabama Law Institute.

• Commission must be convened within 60 days of resolution enactment, with chair and vice chair elected at first meeting; members set their own regular meeting dates.

• Commission shall study all aspects of existing mechanics lien law and review proposed legislation, then report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than the fifth legislative day of the 2015 Regular Session, after which it dissolves.

• Commission members receive per diem and travel expenses for meeting attendance, with total expenditures capped at $5,000; legislative members cannot receive additional compensation when the Legislature is in session.