BRADENTON, Fla. - Alabama state legislators ended their annual session April 3 after approving an education budget bill, but without taking final action on measures altering the structure of the double-A rated Birmingham Water Works Board.
Before going home, lawmakers passed a $5.9 billion education budget bill that now awaits action by Gov. Robert Bentley.
Bentley has expressed concern about the school spending plan because legislative action was taken before he could propose a raise for K-12 teachers and employees, according to published reports.
He has until April 13 to sign the education bill. A special session would be required if the governor opts not to sign it.
Earlier in the week, legislators approved a separate appropriations bill of about $12.5 billion, which includes $1.8 billion for the general fund.
A Senate bill that would have authorized $100 million of bonds to finance computer equipment, software, and digital textbooks for the state's public school teachers and children died in a House committee.
Controversial bills that would change the governance of the Water Works Board received debate during the session did not get on calendars for final votes. The board serves Birmingham, Jefferson County, and portions of several other surrounding counties.
Legislation filed by state Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, and Rep. Paul DeMarco, R-Homewood, would have imposed term limits on board members, specified amounts they would be paid, expanded the board from five members to include representatives outside of Birmingham, and increased oversight of the agency.
The Water Works Board and Birmingham City Council opposed the measures. The council appoints all members of the board, but does not require an annual payment to support the city's general fund.
The only revenue the city receives from the agency comes from a business license, permits, and an occupational tax accessed on their employees, according to the Tom Barnett, the city's finance director.
