Nearly all these people represent some segment of the population. They are not only interested in what one person wants. The Alabama Education Association, which represents teachers and other education employees, is generally considered the strongest special interest group. Others include Alfa, the Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Trial Lawyers Association. Even the Alabama Press Association has a lobbyist working the State House.
Lawmakers say the system generally works well.
Lobbyists build their reputations by being reliable sources. Those who can be counted on develop the most clout. The system is far from perfect, though. Lawmakers sometimes sponsor bills given to them by a lobbyist without knowing what the bill really does. Or in some cases, they don't share with their colleagues what a lobbyist-originated bill really does.