On Thursday afternoon, Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter appointed State Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) as Chairman of the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee.
It was announced yesterday that State Rep. Randall Shedd (R-Fairview) will resign his seat to serve as constituent services director for Alabama Senate Pro Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman).
Shedd also therefore vacated his committee chairmanship and position as whip of the Alabama House Majority Caucus.
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Clouse is well-suited for the role, Speaker Ledbetter said today.
“Having served more than 30 years as a member of the Alabama House of Representatives, Rep. Clouse brings a wealth of experience and is an invaluable asset to the legislative body,” Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said. “I am proud to appoint him to lead this important committee and appreciate his willingness to serve in this new capacity.
“Rep. Shedd is a true public servant and has set a strong example for his colleagues to follow during his 12-year tenure in the House. He certainly leaves big shoes to fill in his district and will be missed in the Alabama House of Representatives.”
According to the speaker’s office, Clouse was chosen from a field of qualified members. His decades of experience, in addition to his time serving as General Fund Budget Chairman, make him an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Rep. Shedd’s departure.
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“The work of this committee plays a vital role in Alabama’s economic success,” Clouse said.
“Businesses depend heavily on access to reliable utility infrastructure and the ability to efficiently transport goods from the point of production to the point of sale. I appreciate Speaker Ledbetter entrusting me to lead this committee and am eager to collaborate with my colleagues to continue paving the way for our state’s success.”
The committee is responsible for reviewing and advancing legislation related to the state’s transportation systems, public utilities and infrastructure development, ensuring the efficient maintenance and expansion of roads, bridges, energy services and communication networks across Alabama.
Clouse’s appointment is effective immediately. Tuesday will be day seven of the 2025 state legislative session.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.