Lawmakers expect to face a flurry of issues including education, state funding and health care as the 2025 legislative session kicks off Feb. 4 in Montgomery. 

While many leaders remain the same in this third year of the quadrennium, a new face will lead the charge in the upper chamber, said Alabama Farmers Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin. 

“We congratulate Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, on his election as president pro tem of the Senate,” Hardin said. “We look forward to working with him to support Alabama farmers in the upcoming session.”

One looming issue is overly expensive health care coverage. The Federation will work with lawmakers on an affordable option in the form of Alfa Health Plans for Federation members, Hardin said. Visit AHealthyOption.org to learn more about Alfa Health Plans. 

Proper funding for ag initiatives continues to be an important topic, said Federation Agricultural Legislation Director Preston Roberts. 

“Loss of federal dollars and tax decreases will likely affect the year-over-year trend of record budgets,” Roberts said. “Our goal is to keep Federation priorities at optimal levels through even or increased funding.” 

Federation budget priorities include Ag in the Classroom, Sweet Grown Alabama and FFA affiliate membership. 

K-12 education is another concern lawmakers plan to tackle, said Federation State Legislative Programs Director Russ Durrance. 

The Joint Legislative Commission on School Funding was established in 2024 to determine the effectiveness of the current formula used to regulate funding levels for state schools and explore new options, Durrance said. Lawmakers are expected to present those findings and propose a different formula.

Rumors of revitalized efforts to pass legislation legalizing gambling have swirled leading up to the session. Federation policy opposes all forms of gambling. 

Among other issues expected to be debated are crime, ethics reform and workforce development. 

Federation members interested in learning more should contact Legislative and Policy Assistant Morgan Desselle at mdesselle@alfafarmers.org. Grassroots involvement will be key this session, Hardin said. 

“Our members make up the fabric of Alabama, and their voices should be heard,” Hardin said. “We encourage farmers to contact us and get engaged in the legislative process.”