Ala. Code § 34-8B-1: Legislative Findings.

The Legislature hereby finds and declares that it is the policy of the state to promote the skill, art, and practice of court reporting in order to assure that court reporters possess the necessary skills and qualifications and that a board be established to prescribe the qualifications of court reporters and to issue licenses to persons who demonstrate their ability and fitness for the licenses. This chapter is intended to establish and maintain a standard of competency for individuals engaged in the practice of court reporting and for the protection of the public, in general, and for the litigants whose rights to personal freedom and property are affected by the competency of court reporters. The examination, licensing, and supervision of the conduct and proficiency of court reporters are integrally related to the effective, impartial, and prompt operation of the judicial system of the State of Alabama.