The Alabama Legislature is entering the final six days of its 2026 regular session, facing a critical deadline to pass major legislation before adjourning on March 31. Key bills still pending include a significant education budget, a proposed constitutional amendment to authorize a state lottery and casinos, and criminal justice reforms.
Lawmakers are working to finalize the state's Education Trust Fund budget, which is expected to exceed $11 billion for the upcoming fiscal year. This budget is a mandatory piece of legislation that must be passed before the session ends.
Another high-stakes issue is the proposed gambling package, which would allow Alabamians to vote on a constitutional amendment to establish a state lottery and authorize up to seven casinos. The measure has been a subject of intense debate and negotiation throughout the session.
Additional bills under consideration in the final days address criminal sentencing reforms and economic development incentives. The outcome of these legislative efforts will shape state policy for the coming year.
