AL SB271

Amends Section 11-49-1 of the Alabama Code to prohibit municipalities from imposing separate fees, charges, taxes, or other payments on natural or manufactured gas utilities in connection with granting consent to use public streets and places.

Applies to gas utilities subject to Alabama Public Service Commission supervision and paying authorized privilege or license taxes up to 3 percent of gross receipts in the municipality and 1.5 percent in the police jurisdiction.

Freezes gas utility franchise fees at current levels after December 31, 2025, unless voters approve an increase through a municipal election under Chapter 46.

Permits municipalities to still charge reasonable permit fees for health, safety, and welfare compliance, publication costs, property remediation requirements, and indemnification provisions in franchise agreements.

Becomes effective June 1, 2025.