Ala. Code § 2-8-195

Upon being so certified by the State Board of Agriculture and Industries, such commission shall thereupon be fully authorized and empowered to hold and conduct on the part of the Alabama cotton producers a referendum wherein they shall be entitled to vote on the question of whether or not they shall levy upon themselves an assessment under and subject to and for the purpose stated in this article. The referendum shall be conducted on a statewide basis.