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Committee clears repeal of law requiring stand‑alone UAB Graduate School of Social Work
Summary
HB152 would remove a 1965 statute that requires the University of Alabama to operate a stand‑alone Graduate School of Social Work, giving the university discretion over organizational structure; proponents said the change will allow flexibility and innovation while continuing to support social‑work education.
The chair introduced House Bill 152, which would remove the 1965 statutory requirement that the University of Alabama operate the Graduate School of Social Work as a stand‑alone entity.
Proponents said the statute is unique and restrictive: it prevents the university from adopting alternative organizational structures that other institutions use to house social‑work programs. “We're just saying it's your business not ours,” the chair said, framing the change as institutional autonomy rather than a cut to social‑work education.
Members noted the state still needs more social workers amid mental‑health and social‑service demand; supporters said allowing administrative flexibility would help the university innovate to meet workforce needs. A motion for a favorable report was made, seconded, and the committee approved the bill by voice vote.
The transcript records supportive comments and a favorable voice vote; no roll‑call tallies were recorded.
