MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Governor Kay Ivey has signed a series of new laws aimed at expanding benefits for Alabama National Guard members, veterans and their families, focusing on education, workforce opportunities and financial relief.
“Alabamians are among the most patriotic Americans and their dedication to protect our country and safeguard our freedom continually deserves our praise and support,” said Ivey. “I was pleased to sign into law this session legislation addressing military education and workforce training benefits and promoting greater employment opportunities for military spouses. These measures and others I have signed further demonstrate our gratitude to our military and their families for their service as well as leveraging their unique skills in growing Alabama’s workforce.”
The legislation includes expanded tuition assistance through the Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program, now covering workforce training in addition to traditional college degrees, along with faster delivery of funds to students.
Another measure increases hiring and promotion preferences for military spouses in state government and allows local governments and private employers to extend similar preferences to veterans and military families.
Lawmakers also approved a bill requiring the Alabama Department of Public Health to count military training toward Emergency Medical Services licensing, helping veterans transition into civilian healthcare roles.
Additional laws provide financial relief and support, including a new state income tax exemption on the first $5,000 earned by Alabama National Guard members during inactive duty training, beginning in 2027.
Veterans will also have new pathways into the classroom. A separate bill allows the Alabama State Department of Education to issue temporary teaching certificates to eligible veterans, a move aimed at addressing teacher shortages across the state.
Housing assistance was also addressed. New legislation allows 100-percent disabled veterans to receive a tentative property tax exemption earlier in the home-buying process, helping improve access to mortgage loans. Another law removes the need for annual homestead exemption verification for permanently disabled veterans.
Education access is also expanding for students, with a requirement that Alabama high schools offer annual voluntary Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery testing, giving students more exposure to military career paths.
The package also updates the state’s military awards system, allowing for expanded recognition and, in some cases, retroactive honors.
State leaders say the new laws are designed to support those who have served while strengthening Alabama’s workforce and education systems.