2026 Alabama Legislative Session Summary

2026 Alabama Legislative Session Summary

Victory in the fight against cancer requires bold new public policies that promote cancer prevention, early detection of cancer, and expand access to quality, affordable health care. Lawmakers make many decisions that impact the lives of Mississippi residents impacted by cancer and their leadership is vital to defeating this disease.

In 2026 the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) worked with the Alabama Legislature on legislative efforts that provide affordable, adequate access to health insurance including Medicaid, ensure adequate funding for lifesaving cancer screening and prevention programs, and enact prevention policies to protect kids from tobacco products and help support those who are trying to quit.

Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

Diagnostic Imaging: Legislation was passed and signed into law that will help patients better afford breast cancer screenings and make sure any state-regulated health insurance plan covers follow-up diagnostic imaging without any cost-sharing, including a deductible. The law will go into effect January 1, 2027.

Prostate Cancer Screening: ACS CAN advocated for the David Mac McElhaney and Roy S. Johnson Prostate Cancer Prevention Act, which takes effect on October 1, 2027. It removes cost barriers for prostate cancer screenings for high-risk men over 40, including black men and those who have one or more first-degree relatives with a prostate cancer history.

ACS CAN worked to maintain funding of $600,000 for the Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, the state breast and cervical cancer screening and treatment program for low-income uninsured and underinsured women.

Reducing the Toll of Tobacco

ACS CAN worked to maintain funding for fact-based, statewide Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Programs at $1.8 million.

Ensuring Access to Quality Care

ACS CAN continues to advocate for legislation to close the health insurance coverage gap for over 200,000 hardworking Alabamians. Alabama remains one of just 10 states that has not increased access to affordable health insurance through Medicaid.

ACS CAN is making cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state, and local levels. ACS CAN empowers advocates across the country to make their voices heard and influence evidence-based public policy change as well as legislative and regulatory solutions that will reduce the cancer burden. As the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN is critical to the fight for a world without cancer. For more information, please visit www.fightcancer.org.