By Anna Barrett | Staff Writer
“Debt is not just a problem of litigation. It is also a problem of social organization, economic organization, and income security and income inequality.” - Daniel Wilf-Townsend, on the increased number of debt lawsuits in Alabama
Debt collectors are filing an increasing number of lawsuits in state courts to force people to repay their outstanding obligations, according to a July study. (Getty Images)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Ralph Chapoco
A study released last week found about 108,300 collection lawsuits were filed in the state last year, a 140% increase over 2019. Many of the collections are medical debts and credit cards, and they have increased significantly since 2023. Experts said the lawsuits often impact the most vulnerable populations.
President Donald Trump shakes hands with newly sworn in Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin during a ceremony in the Oval Office on March 24, 2026. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
D.C. BUREAU
By Sam Gauntt
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin threatened on Friday to prosecute election officials in states that don’t “participate in securing the elections” ahead of the November midterms. The Trump administration will mandate voter machine security enhancements ahead of the midterm elections.
A lawsuit challenging Tuberville's ability to run for governor was dismissed by a lower court earlier this month but has been appealed to the Alabama Supreme Court. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)
COMMENTARY
By Brian Lyman
Alabama's justices have to determine whether a court can decide if a candidate is eligible to run for office. This should be easy, Editor Brian Lyman writes, and the state Supreme Court is facing a test. Will it rein in the law the moment it touches a powerful person?
ICYMI
Taco Bell removing lettuce nationwide linked to cyclosporiasis in 5 states | Jennifer Shutt, D.C. Bureau
Political parties boast new clout and cash in midterms thanks to US Supreme Court | David Lightman, D.C. Bureau
Feds sue cities and states to block sanctuary policies | Shalina Chatlani, Stateline
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