Alabama House Debates Impeachment Process

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) – Alabama lawmakers are debating a proposed impeachment process that will decide if a push to oust Gov. Robert Bentley moves forward or withers because of inadequate support.

The House of Representatives on Tuesday began debate on a rule change that would trigger a Judiciary Committee investigation any time 10 or more legislators file impeachment articles.

The committee would make a recommendation to the House if impeachment is merited.

Rep. Matt Fridy said lawmakers need a way to proceed after some called for Bentley’s impeachment.

However, Fridy said some legislators want to raise the threshold to 21 lawmakers, a number equal to one-fifth of House members. Eleven lawmakers signed impeachment articles against Bentley.

Rep. Ed Henry, who filed impeachment articles, said it would be difficult to get to 21 votes.