Birmingham Sues Alabama Over Water Works Board Bill

Birmingham officials have filed a federal lawsuit against Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and the state to block a bill that would reduce the city's seats on the Birmingham Water Works Board from six to two, shifting control to state leaders and suburban representatives. The legislation, which passed the state House along party lines and awaits the governor's signature, would increase the influence of majority-white suburbs with fewer customers over the utility, which serves 770,000 people. Plaintiffs, including Mayor Randall Woodfin, argue the bill constitutes racial discrimination, violates the equal protection clause and the Voting Rights Act, and strips majority-Black Birmingham of fair representation. Supporters of the bill claim it aims to address mismanagement and infrastructure issues, while opponents view it as a political takeover. The lawsuit seeks a temporary restraining order to halt enactment and asks the governor to return the bill to the legislature for revisions. The dispute highlights broader tensions over representation and resource control in Alabama.