Ala. Code § 38-2-5

The state department, subject to the approval of the state board, shall allocate such federal and state funds for public assistance, administration and services as are available, in a manner that assures equitable treatment of needy individuals in similar circumstances throughout the state. The allocation of these funds shall be based on the relative welfare needs in the several counties. In determining the relative welfare needs of the several counties consideration shall be given to the number of persons eligible to receive public assistance, the financial needs of those eligible persons, and the cost of administration and services. All these factors shall be determined in accordance with uniform standards set by the state department, subject to the approval of the state board, which standards shall in no case contravene the Social Security Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. The method of determining the needs in the several counties shall be uniform throughout the state. Funds allocated shall be expended in the manner prescribed by the state department, subject to the approval of the state board.