Alabama Governor Signs Order Ensuring Equal Banking Access

Executive Order aims to prevent discrimination by state-chartered banks based on customer beliefs or political views.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:42pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a classic bank building in a small town, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the facade and sidewalk, conveying a sense of stability and community-focused financial services.The executive order aims to maintain the accessibility and community-focused nature of Alabama's state-chartered banks.Montgomery Today

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed an executive order requiring state-chartered banks to provide fair and lawful access to financial services for all customers, regardless of their beliefs, political views, or participation in legal activities. The order reinforces expectations that banks serve all law-abiding residents without discrimination.

Why it matters

The order is intended to protect Alabamians' right to access banking services, which are essential for financial security and economic stability. It follows a similar federal executive order signed by former President Donald Trump in 2025 aimed at guaranteeing fair banking for all Americans.

The details

Governor Ivey's Executive Order No. 743 directs state-chartered banking institutions in Alabama to not deny or restrict services based on a customer's beliefs, political views, affiliations, or participation in legal activities. The order aligns with the long-standing position of the Alabama State Banking Department that no person should be denied access to financial services solely due to their beliefs or lawful activities.

  • Governor Ivey signed the executive order on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
  • Former President Donald Trump issued a similar federal executive order on August 7, 2025.

The players

Governor Kay Ivey

The current Governor of Alabama who signed the executive order.

Mike Hill

The superintendent of the Alabama State Banking Department, who stated the order aligns with the department's long-held position on equal access to financial services.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who issued a similar federal executive order in 2025 aimed at guaranteeing fair banking for all Americans.

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What they’re saying

“'Alabamians count on being able to utilize banking services for their own financial security and prosperity, and such access underpins the stability of our economy. State-chartered banking institutions must not restrict the use of financial services based on customers' beliefs, political views or involvement in legal activities. Accordingly, I sign this executive order to ensure that our residents' lawful right to financial services is protected.'”

— Governor Kay Ivey

“'Governor Ivey's executive order closely aligns with the long-held position of the State Banking Department that no person shall be denied access to financial services solely due to their beliefs, affiliations, political views or engagement in lawful activity. While I believe that our state-chartered banks have provided fair and lawful access to their services, all Alabama state-chartered banking institutions should follow this policy effective immediately.'”

— Mike Hill, Superintendent, Alabama State Banking Department

What’s next

The Alabama State Banking Department will issue guidance to all state-chartered financial institutions outlining expectations for maintaining safe, sound, and lawful banking practices while adhering to the policy of equal access.

The takeaway

This executive order reinforces the importance of protecting Alabamians' right to access essential banking services without discrimination based on their beliefs, political views, or lawful activities. It builds on similar federal efforts to ensure fair and equal treatment in the financial sector.