Beason Won't Seek Re-election in Alabama Legislature

Republican Sen. Scott Beason of Gardendale won't seek another term in the Alabama Legislature. Beason issued a statement Friday saying it's time to end his time at the Statehouse. He was first elected to the Alabama Legislature in 1998. Beason was behind Alabama's sweeping immigration bill, considered the toughest in the nation before it was largely gutted by the courts. The lawmaker also the sponsor of Alabama gun legislation last year. The bill pitted the National Rifle Association against business groups over the issue of guns in workplace parking lots. Beason has been mentioned as a possible candidate for the 6th District congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus. Beason lost a primary bid to Bachus in 2012, but he hasn't said whether he will run this year.