This section defines Miss Alabama, the official state ambassador, and state agency, and lets the ambassador perform listed duties when invited or coordinated with a state agency.
(a) For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings: (1) MISS ALABAMA. The individual selected and recognized by the Miss Alabama Organization to hold the title of Miss Alabama for an annual term. (2) OFFICIAL STATE AMBASSADOR. An honorary representative designated to promote goodwill and civic engagement and to serve as a public representation of the State of Alabama. (3) STATE AGENCY. Any department, board, bureau, commission, or office of the State of Alabama, including the Office of the Governor. (b)(1) Miss Alabama is an official state ambassador for the State of Alabama during her term as Miss Alabama. (2) The designation of official state ambassador shall only apply during the individual’s term as the recognized Miss Alabama. (3) Upon the selection of a new Miss Alabama, the designation shall automatically transfer to the new individual recognized as Miss Alabama. (c) An official state ambassador, upon invitation or coordination with a state agency, may perform the following duties: (1) Represent the State of Alabama at ceremonial, educational, civic, tourism-related, and economic development events. (2) Promote Alabama’s communities, culture, history, workforce, military families, and public-service initiatives. (3) Encourage volunteerism, civic engagement, and charitable service throughout the state. (4) Serve as a goodwill representative of the state at national or international events when appropriate. (d) Participation by an official state ambassador in any activity authorized by this section shall be voluntary. (e)(1) Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize compensation, salary, stipend, benefits, or reimbursement of expenses to an official state ambassador. (2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to grant policymaking authority, regulatory authority, or decision-making authority to an official state ambassador. (f)(1) A state agency may coordinate with an official state ambassador for appearances, outreach efforts, and public engagement activities that are consistent with the mission of the agency. (2) Nothing in this section requires a state agency to request or use the services of an official state ambassador.