City of Tuscaloosa Mayor Walter Maddox spoke to the University SGA Senate amid speculation of a possible bid for the Alabama governorship. In his remarks, Maddox noted that he will make a decision on a possible bid within the next week to two weeks. Maddox also emphasized the importance of leadership and coming together to effect change.

“I am proud of each and every one of you for giving back with your time … Thank you for that type of service,” Maddox said.

Following the speech and confirmation of the First Year Council, Senate discussed Resolution 06, which encourages the adoption of Open Textbooks. This was previously an act, but after debate last week was sent back to the Academic Affairs Committee to be changed to a resolution. After consideration, the resolution was passed.

In addition, Senate heard a bill that would change the Senate attendance policy so that the Secretary of the Senate can decide whether or not an absence is excused. Senator Clay Gaddis, a sophomore biology major who authored the bill, said the previous rules on the matter were “cutthroat” because they noted absences due to official University as the only reasons for an excused absence. 

A student was removed from the Senate two weeks ago for accruing four unexcused absences, the maximum number allowed. When deciding what to change about the attendance policy, Gaddis said the maximum number of unexcused absences allowed was not changed because he felt the number was fair. 

“If you’re missing more than four then you’re kind of just disconnecting yourself from Senate,” he said.

Order of Events:

1. Remarks from Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox.

2. FYC confirmed.

3. Resolution 06 encouraging the adoption of Open textbooks was reintroduced and subsequently passed.

4. Act A-08, which allots $500 to raise awareness for the UA Safety Application was introduced and sent to the Student Affairs Committee.

5. Bill B-04 introduced, sent to the Rules Committee.