Alabama Senate Redistricting Bill Advances From Committee

Alabama’s controversial SB1 redistricting bill moved forward this week after a heated public hearing inside the House General Fund Ways and Means Committee.

According to a press release sent to Townsquare Media from the Alabama House Democratic Caucus, the hearing became so intense that proceedings were temporarily paused after several people opposing the bill were removed from the room.

The legislation would redraw two Montgomery state senate districts and eliminate what supporters of the caucus call an “opportunity district” for Black voters in Montgomery.

According to the press release, no supporters spoke in favor of the bill during the hearing. Multiple speakers, including Shomari Figures, argued the proposal would weaken Black voting power in Montgomery.

Several Democratic lawmakers also voiced opposition to the bill, including Napoleon Bracy, Laura Hall, A.J. McCampbell and Pebblin Warren.

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During the hearing, Warren emotionally addressed concerns about the impact the bill could have on Black voters.

“You can do anything you want, and to see that you want more, makes me personally feel that you don’t want me,” Warren said according to the press release.

Warren also criticized the cost of the legislation, saying money could be better spent helping rural communities and areas within Alabama’s Black Belt.

According to the press release, opponents of the bill believe the proposal would reduce opportunities for Black voters to elect candidates of their choice in Montgomery.