HB555 Summary

• Authorizes a referendum in Phenix City on August 22, 2017, to change the Board of Education from appointed to elected members, requiring approval by majority vote of qualified electors.

• Establishes an elected Board of Education composed of seven members: two elected from each of three city council districts and one elected city-wide, with elections using the same procedures as city council elections.

• Requires candidates to be at least 21 years old, residents of their district for 365 consecutive days before qualifying, and prohibits employees of the board and individuals with felony convictions involving moral turpitude.

• Sets initial election for August 28, 2018, with four-year terms thereafter; provides $500 monthly compensation per member and fills vacancies through board appointment with State Superintendent backup.

• Repeals Act 929 from 1971 and establishes board chair duties including presiding over meetings, setting agendas, and ensuring due process for school system employees.