State Sen. Bill Holtzclaw this week took steps to strengthen Alabama’s position ahead of future decisions made by the Department of Defense’s Base Closure and Realignment Commission.

Holtzclaw, who feels confident another BRAC would occur during Trump’s administration, is the sponsor of Senate Bills 242 and 218, which move the Alabama Job Creation and Military Stability Commission from resolution to code.

The bills also create the Military Stability Fund to facilitate public-private partnerships for economic development in the defense industry. The Military Stability Commission was originally created by a legislative resolution in 2011 and exists to promote the growth of the defense industry in Alabama.

“The threat of a future BRAC has moved from over the horizon to on the horizon — a BRAC will likely occur during the Trump Administration,” Holtzclaw said. “These bills will strengthen Alabama’s position to retain and expand our military installations throughout the state.”

Gov. Kay Ivey described the Military Stability Commission as essential for maintaining the state’s position as a leader in the defense industry. She has chaired the Military Stability Commission since 2011 and was involved in its creation while serving as lieutenant governor.

“I commend Senator Holtzclaw and the entire Senate for their leadership in working to pass legislation that honors and serves those in uniform who protect and defend us,” Ivey said.

Other bills

The Senate also approved proposals to protect deployed National Guard members and give Alabama’s students more information about the benefits of military service.

Senate Bill 97 allows all deployed members of the Alabama National Guard to qualify for the Service members Civil Relief Act. The SCRA provides a range of protections for deployed service members, including temporary suspension of outstanding credit card debts, mortgage payments, and pending trials. Currently, only service members who deploy for at least 30 days may qualify.

Senate Bill 203 allows military recruiters to have the same access to Alabama’s high school, college, and university campuses as private sector companies are given, in order to better maintain an all-volunteer military.