Legislator vows to discuss every local bill amid frustrations over opposition

Tensions flared during the Alabama Senate meeting on May 7, 2025, as a senator expressed frustration over the treatment of his local bills. "Why should I be nice and let everybody else take home what they wanna take home, and I can't take home mine?" he questioned, highlighting a perceived imbalance in legislative support.

The senator emphasized his commitment to ensuring that his bills receive fair consideration, stating, "All I want is an up and down vote. If they kill it, then just kill it." He expressed concern that his efforts to collaborate and negotiate with colleagues have been met with resistance, leading him to prepare for a lengthy debate on each local bill presented.

"I’m serious about it," he declared, indicating that he would take the floor for an hour on every bill that comes up, signaling a potential slowdown in the legislative process. He warned that if his bills continue to be ignored, he might retaliate by prolonging discussions on others, stating, "If you come with 10 bills now, be ready to stand around 10 hours."

In a moment of collaboration, he acknowledged discussions with the House chairman about a particular bill, expressing optimism about its passage. "I think that it's a good bill," he noted, indicating a willingness to support it when the time comes.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges within the Senate as members navigate local interests and legislative priorities, with the senator's passionate plea serving as a reminder of the complexities of governance in Alabama.