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Bill

SB 271

Lieutenant Governor, vacancy in office, require the office be filled by election in certain circumstances, constitutional amendment

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Givhan

Alabama constitutional amendment requiring Lieutenant Governor vacancies be filled by election rather than gubernatorial appointment, shifting succession power to voters.

Enacted
#constitutionalamendmentsstatewide
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 271

Legislative bill overview

SB 271 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring that when a vacancy occurs in Alabama's Lieutenant Governor office, the position must be filled through a general election rather than through gubernatorial appointment or other interim methods. The bill has passed the Senate and is currently pending review in the House Committee on State Government.

Why is this important

Lieutenant Governor vacancies are rare but consequential, as the position involves significant constitutional duties and represents voters statewide. This amendment would shift power from the sitting Governor (who typically appoints a replacement) to the electorate, fundamentally changing how leadership succession works in the executive branch and potentially affecting political party dynamics during mid-term periods.

Potential points of contention

  • Gubernatorial power reduction: The current Governor would lose the ability to quickly fill a vacancy with a trusted ally, potentially weakening executive continuity and responsiveness during crises
  • Cost and timing: Special elections are expensive and time-consuming; forcing an election rather than allowing interim appointment could leave the office vacant for extended periods
  • Voter fatigue: Requiring elections for all vacancies may increase ballot complexity and election frequency, potentially reducing voter engagement for mid-term special elections

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

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