AL SB221

Requires Alabama legislators to obtain written preapproval from the Ethics Commission before accepting compensation for business arrangements with clients.

Commission has 60 days (extendable to 90 days) to evaluate requests based on factors including member expertise, service comparability to client's customary needs, and compensation rates versus market standards.

Establishes presumption that three types of arrangements are appropriate: continuation of pre-existing client relationships with substantially similar services, professional services at usual and customary rates, and goods at fair market value.

Protects approved members from civil and criminal liability to the state or political subdivisions, provided all information submitted to the Commission is complete and accurate.

Requires legislators to file detailed list of existing clients with the Commission by their swearing-in date and notify Commission of material changes to approved arrangements; takes effect November 7, 2018.