As used in this chapter, the following terms have the following meanings:

1. (1) COAL-IMPACTED COMMUNITIES. Areas or jurisdictions of the state that meet one or more of the following criteria:

   1. a. Areas where coal is currently being mined on federal lands.
   2. b. Areas where a significant population of the workforce is engaged in the mining of coal on federal lands.
   3. c. Areas that have experienced substantial economic impact due to the decline or cessation of coal mining operations on federal lands.
   4. d. Jurisdictions where coal mining on federal lands has historically been a major source of employment or tax revenue.
   5. e. For purposes of this definition, Fayette County, Jefferson County, Tuscaloosa County, and Walker County are designated as coal-impacted communities.
2. (2) DEPARTMENT. The Alabama Department of Workforce.
3. (3) FUND. The fund created in Section 25-17-6.

4. (4) LOCAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION. Any organization that is determined by the advisory committee to meet both of the following criteria:

   1. a. The organization is an Alabama entity not operating for profit, including, but not limited to, a municipality, county, industrial development board, industrial development authority, chamber of commerce, institution of higher education, or some other foundation or nonprofit organization charged with improving a community or region of the state.
   2. b. The organization has a record of supporting or otherwise participating in economic or workforce development in some parts of the state.
5. (5) PERSON. One or more individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations, legal representatives, mutual companies, joint-stock companies, trusts, unincorporated organizations, trustees, bankruptcy, receivers, and fiduciaries.
6. (6) SECRETARY. The Secretary of the Department of Workforce.

(Act 2026-167, §3.)