AL SB248

Amends Alabama Code Section 41-22-20 to change how courts review agency rulings in contested cases by eliminating the requirement that courts treat agency decisions as "prima facie just and reasonable."

Courts may now consider but shall not defer to an agency's interpretation of statutes or rules, instead interpreting their meaning de novo (from scratch).

When interpreting statutes or rules, courts must exercise any remaining doubt in favor of interpretations that limit agency power and maximize individual liberty.

Becomes effective October 1, 2025.