Ala. Code § 33-1-2: Alabama Port Authority.

(a) There shall be a state agency known as the Alabama Port Authority, hereinafter sometimes referred to as the port authority. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, whenever any act, section of this code, or any other provision of law refers to the Alabama State Docks Department or the Alabama State Port Authority, it shall be deemed a reference to the Alabama Port Authority.

(b) The port authority shall promote, supervise, control, manage, and direct the state docks and all other state lands included within the jurisdiction of this chapter and shall maintain and operate all the improvements and facilities authorized by this chapter. The port authority is a body corporate and shall be constituted as provided in this chapter.