Rep. Debbie Wood Resigns Valley House Seat July 31

State Rep. Debbie Wood, who has served portions of Lee and Chambers counties since 2018, announced her resignation from House District 38 effective July 31, 2025. The move stems from her husband's recent job relocation to the Florida panhandle, forcing the family to live near the Alabama-Florida line—outside the district she represents, as required by state law.[1][2][4] Wood, a Republican from Valley, shared the news during a legislative update to the Chambers County Commission and confirmed it to Alabama Daily News.[1][3] House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter lauded Wood's tenure, calling her 'a great member' whose 'leadership' will be missed and wishing her family well.[1] As vice chair of the House County and Municipal Government Committee, Wood sponsored key 2024 legislation granting Alabama teachers paid parental leave.[1][4] Her departure coincides with state Sen. Tom Butler's announcement not to seek re-election in 2026, spotlighting transitions in eastern Alabama's GOP delegation.[2] Gov. Kay Ivey will call a special election for the District 38 seat following Wood's exit, with the winner seated months before the May 2026 primary.[1][2] A 2018 constitutional amendment mandates vacancies after October 1 in a term's third year remain empty until the next regular election, but Wood's July timing prompts the special vote.[1][2] Republicans Kristin Nelson of Lanett and Micah Messer of Smiths Station—Wood's 2022 challenger—are already vying for the seat in the general cycle.[1]