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SB 169

Executive Branch, Governor authorized to appoint vacancy in office of Lieutenant Governor, statewide constitutional amendment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Arthur Orr

Alabama constitutional amendment authorizing Governor to unilaterally appoint Lieutenant Governor replacements, concentrating executive succession power without legislative oversight or voter approval.

Currently Indefinitely Postponed
#constitutionalamendmentsstatewide
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Bill Summary · SB 169

Legislative bill overview

SB 169 proposes a constitutional amendment that would authorize the Governor to directly appoint a replacement when the office of Lieutenant Governor becomes vacant, rather than requiring a special election or other succession method. This would require voter approval through a statewide referendum to take effect.

Why is this important

Currently, most states have established procedures for Lieutenant Governor vacancies—either through special elections, succession to other officials, or appointment with legislative confirmation. This change would shift significant executive power to the Governor, allowing them to choose their own successor without legislative oversight or public election. The amendment's current status as "Indefinitely Postponed" suggests it has stalled in the legislative process.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive power concentration: Allowing the Governor unilateral appointment authority removes checks and balances that typically exist through legislative confirmation or electoral processes
  • Democratic representation: Special appointments bypass the democratic principle of voters choosing statewide officials, potentially disadvantaging candidates not favored by the sitting Governor
  • Succession implications: The appointed Lieutenant Governor could become Governor if the sitting Governor dies, resigns, or is removed—meaning voters would not have approved that person for the state's highest office

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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