MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) – A new bill passed by the Alabama House of Representatives could change how public high schools are classified for athletics, specifically to support schools with high numbers of English language learners.
House Bill 298 was sponsored by Representatives Colvin, Kiel, Robbins, Fidler, Woods, and Ross.
The bill calls for athletic associations to adjust a school’s athletic classification to account for students who are English language learners and do not participate in sports.
The goal is to create a more level playing field by recognizing student population differences that impact team sizes and resources.
The bill also adds two non-voting legislative members to the athletic association’s governing body to help ensure state oversight. If enacted, the change would take effect with the 2026–2027 school year.
The bill passed the House on April 29 with a strong majority vote: 72 in favor, 1 against, and 29 abstentions. It now moves to the Senate for consideration.
