Governor Expected to Sign Soil and Water Conservation Bill
Gov. Kay Ivey is expected to sign legislation into law giving the Agricultural and Conservation Development Commission greater flexibility in targeting federal funds to high-impact projects, following final passage by the House of Representatives Tuesday.
SB 192 by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, was approved 96-0. The bill, which is supported by the Alabama Association of Conservation Districts, could help Alabama secure additional federal funding to improve the utilization of soil and water resources in the state.
Under existing law, any surplus in the Commission’s revolving fund not needed for operations may be allocated to local soil and water conservation districts. Each district is required to receive at least 1 percent. SB 192 and the companion, HB 309 by Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva, removes the 1 percent restriction. (Federation Supports)