Alabama Launches $191 Million Tax Relief Package
As Alabama wrapped up its 2025 legislative session on Wednesday, lawmakers approved a tax relief package worth $191 million. This package includes cutting the state sales tax on groceries from 3% to 2%, removing the 4% sales tax on essential baby products and women’s hygiene items, and boosting retirement benefits for lower-income households.
In a related development, the Republican candidate in the upcoming Kalman Regional HD11 Special Election is advocating for even broader tax reductions, including on personal income tax.
Health Allbright, a business owner and former school board member from Kalman County, stated, “As a conservative Christian and small business owner, I believe hardworking Alabamians deserve to keep more of their earnings.” He added that reducing the income tax would enable families in District 11 to invest more in their homes, education, and the local economy.
Allbright is also focused on addressing the state’s business privilege tax, which he claims imposes fees based on a company’s net worth, burdening small businesses and hindering growth. He remarked, “This tax limits the potential for local entrepreneurs and job creation, so cutting it could really help our community thrive.”
Highlighting a previous Alabama Senate bill aimed at phasing out this tax, Allbright expressed his continued support for this policy, which he believes would save millions for businesses.
In Alabama, personal property used in business is taxed, with equipment and machinery assessed at 20% of their market value. Allbright pointed out, “These personal property taxes strain families and small businesses by taxing essential tools and equipment. Easing this financial pressure would allow residents to have better opportunities with their hard-earned money.”
He noted that the high local millage rates compound these costs, making it particularly difficult for businesses that rely on heavy machinery. This tax burden is especially significant in rural areas where agriculture and manufacturing are key economic drivers.
Allbright believes it’s feasible to balance tax reductions while investing in essential areas like education and infrastructure, all while maintaining conservative financial practices.
The 39-year-old owns Brighton Forestry Services and has served two terms on the Kalman County Board of Education. His campaign centers around tax cuts, easing regulations on small and medium-sized businesses, and enhancing support for public education.
He has garnered backing from several organizations, including the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Alabama Business Council.
Tomorrow, voters in Alabama’s House District will make their choice in the Special Republican primary, which includes retired US Army Colonel Don Farin. The seat became available following former state Representative Randall Shedd’s resignation to join Senate Speaker Pro Tem Garlan Gagger’s office. District 11, which encompasses parts of Kalman and Brandt counties, has historically been a Republican stronghold since Shedd’s initial election in 2013.
