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Bill Summary · SB 11

Summary of SB 11: Alabama Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act

Bill Number: SB 11
Introduced: July 09, 2025
Status: Read for the first time and referred to the Senate Committee on County and Municipal Government
Legislative Actions:
- 2026-01-13: Pending Committee Action in House of Origin
- 2026-01-13: Read for the first time and referred to the Senate Committee on County and Municipal Government
- 2025-07-09: Filed

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 11 is to establish clear procedures for the electoral voting process of the President and Vice President of the United States in Alabama. Specifically, it aims to address situations where presidential electors do not vote in accordance with the preferences of the state's voters. This legislation seeks to ensure that electors remain faithful to the will of the electorate, thereby enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of the Alabama Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act:

    • The bill introduces a new division within Alabama's election law, specifically addressing the responsibilities and procedures for presidential electors.

  2. Elector Nomination Process:

    • Political parties must submit the names of two qualified individuals for each elector position: one as the "elector nominee" and the other as the "alternate elector nominee."
    • Both nominees must pledge to vote for their party's candidates if selected as electors.

  3. Voting Procedures:

    • The Secretary of State will oversee the meeting of electors and manage the voting process.
    • If an elector is absent, a substitute elector will be appointed based on a hierarchy of options, including using alternate electors or selecting from available nominees.

  4. Ballot Submission and Acceptance:

    • Electors must present their completed ballots to the Secretary of State, who will only accept ballots that comply with the electors' pledges.
    • If an elector fails to present a valid ballot, their position will be considered vacant and filled according to the established procedures.

  5. Amended Certificate of Ascertainment:

    • After the voting concludes, if the final list of electors differs from the initial certificate submitted by the Governor, an amended certificate will be prepared and signed by the Governor.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • This bill primarily impacts presidential electors, political parties, and the Secretary of State's office in Alabama.
    • It ensures that electors are held accountable to the voters' choices, thereby reinforcing the principle of representative democracy.

  • Procedural Changes:

    • The bill introduces a structured process for handling vacancies among electors and ensures that all electoral votes are cast in accordance with the voters' intentions.

Conclusion

SB 11 aims to enhance the electoral process in Alabama by ensuring that presidential electors adhere to the preferences of the state's voters. By establishing clear procedures for electors and addressing potential vacancies, the bill seeks to uphold the integrity of the electoral system in the state. The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on County and Municipal Government.

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

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