House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter has appointed State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville) to the House Committee on Rules — effective immediately.

“While it is uncommon for a freshman member of the House to be appointed to the Rules Committee, Rep. Lomax’s knowledge of the legislative process far exceeds his time in office,” Speaker Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said.

“Members of this committee serve as both the last line of defense against harmful legislation as well as advocates for policies that will positively impact the state of Alabama. Serving in this capacity comes with a great deal of responsibility, and I have no doubt that Rep. Lomax is up to the task.”

Chaired by State Rep. Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn), the House Rules Committee is the gatekeeper for floor action in the Alabama House. It sets the special order calendar that determines which bills reach the floor, in what order, and how they’re handled.

Lomax, as its newest member, in his first term, also serves on Economic Development & Tourism, Financial Services, Ethics & Campaign Finance, Ports, Waterways & Intermodal Transit, and the Madison County Legislation committee.

“I am incredibly grateful to Speaker Ledbetter for the opportunity to serve on this vitally important committee,” Lomax said.

“As a member of the House Committee on Rules, I intend to work diligently to advance commonsense policies that ignite our state’s potential while standing firm against legislation that would threaten Alabama’s economy, education system, or our conservative values.”

The 2026 legislative session begins on January 13.

Grayson Everett is the editor and chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.