Governor Bentley Appoints Blaine Galliher as Legislative Director

MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Thursday announced that State Representative Blaine Galliher has been appointed to serve in the Bentley Administration as Legislative Director effective August 1, 2012.

“Blaine and I have worked together for many years, dating back to my time in the Alabama Legislature.  He is a proven leader with a strong record of public service, and I look forward to Blaine joining my Cabinet and continuing our mission of improving state government for the people of Alabama,” Governor Bentley said.  “Working alongside the Alabama Legislature, we will continue to pass legislation that creates jobs, right-sizes state government and improves the lives of Alabamians.”

“I am excited to work with Governor Bentley and his team,” Galliher said.  “I have had a strong relationship with Governor Bentley since we first worked together in the House of Representatives.  Governor Bentley’s focus is on serving the citizens of Alabama, and I look forward to furthering his mission and serving Alabama in this new role.”

Galliher was first elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 1994.  Since then, he has represented District 30, which covers much of Etowah and Calhoun Counties.  For the last two years, Galliher has served as Chairman of the Rules Committee.

Galliher will step down from his District 30 seat in order to assume his new role, which includes working closely with the Alabama Legislature in carrying out Governor Bentley’s legislative agenda.

“I would like to thank the people of District 30 for the honor and privilege of representing them in the Alabama Legislature for so many years,” Galliher added.  “I am proud of our accomplishments, and I look forward to continuing my service to the people of Alabama as I work with Governor Bentley to accomplish his legislative agenda.”

Galliher’s professional experience includes 21 years of management at Gulf States Steel in Gadsden, followed by 10 years in the education community working for the Alabama Technology Network.  Galliher served ATN as director of business and industry training for Etowah and Calhoun Counties.  Galliher served in the U.S. Army from 1968 through 1971.

Legislative leadership congratulated Galliher on his new role.

“Blaine is an exceptional lawmaker and a trusted friend,” House Speaker Mike Hubbard said.  “I don’t know of anyone more qualified to help guide Governor Bentley’s legislative efforts.  As much as I hate to lose him from my leadership team in the House, I’m confident this move will only enhance the positive working relationship between the Executive and Legislative Branches.”

“Representative Galliher is a model statesman and has always been a pleasure to work with,” said Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh.  “This move further solidifies the already positive working relationship between Governor Bentley’s administration and the Legislature, and we look forward to working with Representative Galliher in his new role.”

“Serving in the Legislature has been a wonderful experience that has enriched my life,” Galliher added.  “I am grateful to Speaker Hubbard for appointing me Rules Committee Chairman and making me a part of the Republican leadership.  I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate in this new capacity as we endeavor to run a conservative, responsible government.”

Governor Bentley will call a special election to fill the District 30 seat in the House of Representatives.