This morning you will receive an e-mail with directions to log into ACCA’s new event registration system. This will be the new place for you to register for ACCA conferences and classes. It is also where members can update contact information and check on education credits for ACCA’s training program.

If you have previously registered for an upcoming class or conference, you do not need to worry! ACCA will move your registration from the old system to the new one. You can call or e-mail the Events and Education Team if you need assistance in logging in or registering. 

ACCA is still in the process of transitioning credit card processor details to the new system. While that is being handled, all payments must be made with a check. 

Please note that this system does not replace the County Family online community where county leaders continue to share ideas and thoughts with each other.

The monthly webinar for administrators, which falls on this week’s Juneteenth holiday, will be pre-recorded and sent via email, as well as posted to the online community.  

PLAN 2024 participated in a ceremonial bill signing last week for SB240, the mental health legislation that the group took as its passion project. Act 2024-193 by Sen. Will Barfoot & Rep. Russell Bedsole amends Alabama’s involuntary commitment law so that a co-occurring substance use disorder may be included in a commitment petition and order.

The bill also addresses jurisdictional and procedural issues affecting Probate Judges. First, the act provides that where the respondent was located at the time of the filing is what matters procedurally, not where the respondent is later located. Second, the act expands Probate Judges’ ability to consult with qualified mental health professionals in making their determinations. Lastly, when an individual with an active commitment order is later confined on solely misdemeanor charges or municipal ordinance violations, this act allows Probate Judges to communicate with a district, municipal, or circuit court judge about suspending the criminal proceedings temporarily so that the commitment order may be fulfilled.

The prosecuting attorney must be given an opportunity to object to the discharge order. The law becomes effective January 1, 2025.

DEADLINE FOR ACCA AWARD NOMINATIONS IS THIS FRIDAY! You can access the nomination packet here.

• Efficiency and Innovation in County Government: The Efficiency and Innovation in County Government award is a new award that will be presented during the Annual Convention’s Awards Ceremony on Thursday, August 22. A spinoff of the former Excellence in County Government award, this award is designed to bring statewide attention to outstanding efforts by county government — ranging from innovative approaches to industry recruitment to unique efforts at solving community problems.
• Outstanding Contribution to County Government: This award is given annually to individuals who have contributed to the betterment of county government in a manner above and beyond what is expected in their everyday duties. It is not a longevity award, but represents significant contributions to county government statewide.
• Additional recognition will be given for Tenure in Office. This award is given to County Commissioners who have served in office for at least 16 years. It is given to commemorate each year served, in multiples of four years. For example, a commissioner who will have completed his or her 16th, 20th, 24th, 28th or 32nd year of office following the general election in November is eligible for the award. The Tenure in Office Award is given only to those who have completed a nomination form. Please submit a nomination form if your county has an eligible commissioner.
• Memorials are issued by the ACCA for Commissioners who have passed away since August 2023 while in office. Please have your administrator complete this form if your county has lost a Commissioner during the past year.

CRS continues celebrating National Safety Month by focusing this week on slip/trip/fall hazards and equipment safety features. This week is a good time to review best practices for loading/unloading equipment and mounting and dismounting heavy equipment. In addition, make sure you inspect ladders and harnesses; handrails, sidewalks, entrances and exits, handicap access, and lift systems. Take a good look at your warning signage and protective equipment for eyes, feet, and hands.

For more information about becoming a CRS Safety All-Star, contact CRS.