Three-term state lawmaker and chairman of the Alabama House Judicial Committee Rep. Jim Hill is not running for reelection in 2026.
Hill, R-Odenville, told Alabama Daily News a few factors, including his health and wanting to spend more time with family, led to the decision. Hill, 75, noted he’d be 80 at the end of a fourth term. He recently had back surgery.
“I don’t have the stamina I used to have,” Hill said. “… I’d like to step down while I still have a little bit left instead of waiting until people say, ‘You should have left about five years ago.’”
Hill’s House District 50 covers south and eastern St. Clair County.
Hill, a former district and circuit court judge, praised his experience as a state legislator.
“Everyone ought to do it, you learn so much,” Hill said. “I’ve been involved with the judicial system and different cities where I practice law. But the Legislature has been a different experience, a different environment.
“… It’s a lot of good people and I’ve enjoyed working with them. I just believe it’s my time to step out.”
Hill will continue to lead the judiciary committee next year, as he’s done the past three sessions.
His is now the fourth vacant legislative seat in the 2026 cycle. Sen. Tom Butler, R-Huntsville, announced in July he would not seek another term. Sen. Jack Williams’ Mobile County seat will be open next year as he runs for state agriculture commissioner. And Rep. Rhett Marques, R-Enterprise, is running for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District.
Republican Bill Morris recently announced his candidacy for House District 50. Morris was mayor of Moody from 1992 to 2003 and spent the last 22 years as the general manager of the Leeds Water Works, overseeing day-to-day operations.
“I’ve spent my life working to make our communities better, safer, and more prosperous,” Morris said in a written statement. “Now, I want to take that experience and dedication to Montgomery to serve the people of District 50 and help improve the lives of families across St. Clair County.”
Morris said his campaign will focus on supporting law enforcement, investing in workforce development and strengthening education.
This story was updated to include the open Alabama House seat created by Rep. Rhett Marques’ campaign for Congress.