As lawmakers approach the halfway mark of the 2026 Regular Session, issues directly affecting Alabama retailers continue to take shape. Below is a recap of the latest developments. Bill to Remove Swipe Fees from Sales and Use Tax Calculations Carried…
The fifth week of the 2026 Legislative Session brought steady movement in both committee rooms and on the chamber floors, with several bills of interest to retailers advancing in the process. Legislation Pulled Following SSUT Lawsuit Withdrawal, New Distribution Bill…
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabamians will have an opportunity to prepare for severe weather while saving money during the state’s Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, February 20, 2026, and runs through midnight Sunday, February…
While this legislative week may have felt a bit like Groundhog Day, with fewer bills directly impacting retailers, the Legislature continues to move at a steady pace. Below is a summary of the key measures Alabama Retail Association is tracking as…
Alabama Retail PAC, the Alabama Retail Association’s state political action committee, is proud to announce its endorsements for the 2026 election cycle. The Alabama Retail PAC supports candidates who recognize the vital role retail plays in Alabama’s economy and believe…
Despite a weekend of severe weather across much of the state, the Legislature was back to work this week. This week’s Capitol Retail Report highlights several measures with potential impacts for retailers, ranging from franchise protections and alcohol regulation to…
By Richard I. Lehr, Esq. As January ends, there are new laws and regulations that have come into effect on both the national and state levels that retail businesses should be aware of, along with a few trends in employment…
Despite cold temperatures across Alabama, activity inside the State House is just heating up. The 2026 Regular Session continues to move quickly with lawmakers meeting three days a week to take floor votes while committees dig into the large volume…
Governor Kay Ivey, on January 22, 2026, signed a proclamation issuing a state of emergency for 19 northern counties ahead of the anticipated wintery and icy forecast for the state. On January 26, 2026, Governor Ivey expanded the state of…
The Alabama Retail Association (ARA) is pleased to announce that Melissa Cross has been named Chairman of the ARA Board of Directors. She assumed the role in October 2025, succeeding Michael Gee, and brings extensive leadership experience and a strong…