As the 2025 Legislative Session draws to a close, Alabama House Democrats are raising strong concerns about the direction of state policymaking. During a press conference on Tuesday, Democratic lawmakers from across the state described the session as a climate that prioritizes national culture wars over policies that would materially improve people’s lives.
“We are watching bills move that are completely disconnected from what people are telling us they need. People in Alabama want better schools, access to affordable healthcare, and safer communities. But what’s getting attention here are headline-grabbing policies that distract from those needs,” said Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville.
Lands drew attention to House Bill 561, which she sponsored, proposing a citizen-led initiative process allowing Alabama residents to propose laws or constitutional amendments through a petition process.
“This isn’t radical. It’s already happening in half the states in this country. It gives people a real voice in shaping the laws that affect their lives—without having to rely on politicians to act first,” said Lands.
Under the proposal, voters would need to submit a petition with at least 1,000 signatures and a $1,000 filing fee to start the qualification process. Lands called it a “simple question of whether we trust the people of Alabama.”
Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery, also voiced frustration with the state’s approach to criminal justice and legislative procedure more broadly.
“We are locking people up at one of the highest rates in the country, and instead of asking why or how we can stop that cycle, we’re spending over a billion dollars on new prison buildings. We are warehousing people instead of rehabilitating them,” said Ensler.
Ensler added that Democratic-sponsored bills often face delays, only to be repackaged and passed under Republican sponsorship.
“It’s not just frustrating, it’s undemocratic. Ideas should be evaluated on their merit, not who puts their name on them,” said Ensler.
In the realm of voting rights, Rep. Adline Clarke, D-Mobile, expressed deep concern about so-called “election integrity” bills introduced by Republican lawmakers. Clarke argued these measures would restrict ballot access, particularly in communities of color.
“Let’s be clear. This is about voter suppression, not voter protection. These bills are a solution in search of a problem. Alabama already has secure elections. What these proposals really do is make it harder for working people, seniors and minorities to cast a ballot,” said Clarke.
In response, Clarke introduced the Alabama Voting Rights Act, which would enshrine access to early voting, expanded registration opportunities and protections against voter intimidation. “The right to vote is sacred,” she said. “And we’re going to fight to make sure it’s not chipped away under the guise of ‘integrity.’”
House Democrats say they spent the session pushing for policies aimed at helping everyday Alabamians. Policies included expanding Medicaid, boosting teacher pay, reducing maternal mortality and improving public transportation, but many of these proposals never made it to a full vote.
“This isn’t just about ideology,” said Lands. “It’s about effectiveness. Our state ranks near the bottom in healthcare outcomes, education funding and infrastructure investment. And we are tired of being told to wait while the majority pursues partisan goals.”
As the Legislature prepares to adjourn, Democratic lawmakers say their focus will shift back to their communities. They intend to continue building coalitions and raising awareness about the legislation passed and opportunities lost.
“Session may be over, but the fight isn’t. We’ll be back in our districts, listening, organizing, and preparing for what’s next. Because the people of Alabama deserve better than this,” said Lands.
