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HJR 278

Memorials, Professional Achievement - Christina Johnson, Eagle View Elementary School Teacher of the Year -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by John Clemmons

Ceremonial joint resolution recognizing Rheem Manufacturing Company's 100-year legacy, including its Montgomery plant growth, jobs, and community contributions in Alabama.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 278

Summary: HJR 278 – Rheem Manufacturing Company 100th Anniversary Recognition

Overview

HJR 278 is a ceremonial joint resolution recognizing Rheem Manufacturing Company on its 100th anniversary and commending the company for its historical contributions to Alabama’s economy and communities. The measure is non-policy, intended to honor a longstanding employer and its civic engagement.

Purpose

  • Acknowledge Rheem Manufacturing Company’s century of operations, growth, and job creation.
  • Highlight Rheem’s role in Alabama, particularly the Montgomery plant’s longstanding presence and expansion.
  • Celebrate Rheem’s broader corporate milestones and community involvement.

Key Provisions and Content

  • Recognition of Rheem Manufacturing Company for 100 years of producing and distributing heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC) and water heating systems, and related products.
  • Historical narrative summarized, including:
    • Founding in 1925 in Emeryville, California by William, Richard, and Donald Rheem.
    • Early diversification into shipping containers, bathroom fixtures, defense equipment, and musical instruments.
    • Beginning full-scale production of water heaters, boilers, and tanks in 1930.
    • International expansion in 1937 (facility in Australia).
    • Development of HVAC systems in the 1950s.
    • Montgomery, Alabama plant: ground broken in October 1971 for a 200,000-square-foot facility to produce water heaters; opening in April 1972 with two major expansions since.
    • Growth of the Montgomery plant from 200 employees at opening to more than 900 employees.
    • Acquisition of Heat Transfer Products Group (HTPG) in Scottsboro, Alabama, in 2013, expanding energy-efficient refrigeration equipment manufacturing.
    • Community engagement by Rheem and its employees, including support for Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots, United Way, Prattville YMCA, and the Joy to Life Foundation.
    • Rheem’s current scale: more than 14,000 employees, 50 global brands, and manufacturing/distribution in more than 88 countries.
  • Concluding resolve congratulating Rheem on its centennial and recognizing its impact on workers, communities, and the state.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Rheem Manufacturing Company and its Alabama operations (notably the Montgomery plant and HTPG facility in Scottsboro).
  • Alabama communities that benefit from Rheem’s employment and charitable activities.
  • The general public, as a ceremonial acknowledgment of a longtime corporate citizen.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: April 22, 2025 (HJR 278).
  • House action: Referred to Rules; reported out; passage through House and Senate processes in late April to early May 2025.
  • Enactment timeline:
    • Enrolled and ready to enroll: May 6, 2025.
    • Delivered to Governor: May 6, 2025.
    • Enacted: May 14, 2025.
  • Legal nature: A joint resolution (ceremonial recognition) rather than creating or changing law or policy.

Effective Date

  • The resolution becomes effective upon enactment, following governor’s action in May 2025.

Takeaway

HJR 278 serves as a formal, ceremonial commendation of Rheem Manufacturing Company’s 100-year legacy, detailing its historic milestones, Alabama presence, and community contributions, while noting its continued role as a major employer and corporate citizen.

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

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