Neil Rafferty

Neil Thomas Rafferty is an American politician and Democratic member of the Alabama House of Representatives, representing District 54. Born circa 1985 in Birmingham, Alabama, Rafferty has built a career centered on public service and advocacy for underrepresented communities.

Rafferty is a former United States Marine Corps veteran and served in the Global War on Terrorism. He resides in Birmingham with his husband, Michael Rudulph, also a former Marine. Prior to his election to the state legislature, Rafferty worked as director of research and development for Birmingham AIDS Outreach, where he gained experience in health advocacy and community health issues.

Political Experience

Rafferty won his seat in the 2018 elections and assumed office on November 7, 2018. He was re-elected in 2022 and continues to represent his district.

Within the legislature, Rafferty holds significant leadership roles. He serves as the House Democratic Whip and chairs the Democratic House Caucus Platform Committee. He is a member of several standing committees, including Health; Economic Development and Tourism; Transportation, Utilities, and Infrastructure; and Jefferson County Legislation. Additionally, he has been appointed to specialized task forces including the Alabama Challenge Veterans Suicide Task Force, the Opioid Overdose, Addiction, and Treatment Council, and the 988 Implementation Study Group.

Notable Achievements

Rafferty has been recognized for his legislative work and advocacy. In 2024, he received the Council of State Governments' 20 Under 40 Leadership Award, recognizing his commitment to public service and innovative solutions.

Among his key legislative achievements:

• Sponsored HB 152, which exempts baby formula, maternity clothing, and menstrual hygiene products from state sales tax. The Alabama House unanimously passed this bill in March 2025.
• Introduced HB 291 in 2025, aiming to repeal the 2016 Alabama Uniform Minimum Wage and Right-to-Work Act, which would allow local governments to set minimum wages above the federal level.
• Sponsored pro-growth economic legislation, including tax incentives to address Alabama's shortage of medical professionals, particularly in rural areas.

Rafferty is known as an outspoken advocate for women's health, minority health, LGBTQ and racial equity, veterans' issues, and Medicaid expansion.