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Bill Summary · SB 331

Summary of SB 331: Barbour County Judge of Probate Compensation

Bill Number: SB 331
Title: Barbour County, compensation of the judge of probate further provided for
Status: Enacted
Introduced: April 17, 2025
Effective Date: October 1, 2025

Purpose and Intent

SB 331 aims to amend the compensation structure for the Judge of Probate in Barbour County, Alabama. The bill establishes a new salary framework that ensures the judge receives a consistent and equitable salary, reflecting the role's responsibilities and aligning it with state judicial compensation standards.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 45-3-84.40 of the Code of Alabama 1975, introducing the following key changes:

  1. Salary Structure:

    • Starting October 1, 2025, the Judge of Probate will receive an annual salary determined by the Barbour County Commission.
    • The salary will be no less than 70% of the salary paid to a state district court judge with equivalent years of service.
    • The salary will include adjustments for years of service and cost-of-living increases.

  2. Payment Schedule:

    • The salary will be paid in equal monthly installments, similar to other county employees.

  3. Previous Compensation:

    • The new salary will replace any previous fees, compensation, or expense allowances.
    • As of October 1, 1997, the judge's compensation was capped at $75,000 per year, which will now be adjusted under the new provisions.

  4. General Fund Allocation:

    • All fees and charges previously payable to the judge will now be directed to the county general fund.
    • The county commission will cover all operational expenses for the Office of the Judge of Probate.

  5. Waiver of Additional Compensation:

    • To receive the salary outlined in this bill, the judge must waive any compensation related to reports from the state voter registration list.

  6. Travel Reimbursement:

    • The judge will be entitled to reimbursement for travel expenses, consistent with other county employees.

Impact

The enactment of SB 331 will primarily affect the Judge of Probate in Barbour County by providing a structured and predictable salary framework. This change aims to enhance the financial stability of the position and ensure that compensation is aligned with state standards. Additionally, it will impact the county's budget and financial planning as the salary and operational costs will now be managed through the county general fund.

Procedural Timeline

  • April 17, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Local Legislation.
  • April 24, 2025: Bill read for the first time and reported out of committee.
  • April 29, 2025: Bill passed in the Senate and sent to the House.
  • May 1, 2025: Bill passed in the House and delivered to the Governor.
  • May 27, 2025: Bill officially enacted.

This summary provides an overview of SB 331, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the anticipated impact on Barbour County's judicial compensation system.

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

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