Alabama lawmakers reveal aspirations for 2026 legislative session

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Next year is an election year in Alabama, but that is not stopping lawmakers from tackling the issues that matter most to them.

The 2026 legislative session is a little over five months away, but some leaders already know what they want to get done.

“The question is ‘Are we giving the people of Alabama what they want?'” said state Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham. “And this has been the one consistent thing the citizens of the state of Alabama have asked for.”

Givan said that ask has to do with gambling in the state. She said the people of Alabama should be able to vote on bringing a lottery or comprehensive gambling bill to the state next year.

“That is the one piece that we have not passed and given back to the people to vote on, and I just think it’s time,” Givan said.

State Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, said she wants to continue funding for school choice with a tax credit families can use to cover educational costs. She said it’s critical for students in Alabama.

“Some children do fine in a large environment. Some have special educational deficiencies and special needs,” DuBose said. “And so if a parent can tailor-make an educational experience where their child can thrive, that’s what we want for every student in the state of Alabama.”

State Rep. Curtis Travis, D-Tuscaloosa, wants to see a pay raise for educators in the state.

On the heels of an investigation in Bibb County, Travis said he also wants to see increased penalties for sex crimes involving children.

“I’m not necessarily one for the death penalty on that,” Travis said. “I think that’s strong, but I do think there are issues with that type of crime that need to be handled and dealt with.”

The 2026 legislative session will kick off Jan. 13.