MONTGOMERY — The nation’s largest regional state government forum has elected Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter to preside over its executive committee.

The DeKalb County native will also speak at the Council of State Governments’ 79th Southern Legislative Conference in Birmingham which is expected to draw some 1,800 people.

“It’s an honor to serve as chairman of the 79th Southern Legislative Conference, and I’m grateful that my peers from CSG South’s 15-member states saw me fit to serve in this capacity,” said Ledbetter (R-Rainsville). “I’m excited to welcome legislators, staffers, private partners and their guests to the great state of Alabama for what I know will be an insightful and exciting meeting.

“From our award-winning musicians to our nationally renowned culinary scene, we plan to showcase what makes Sweet Home Alabama so special.”

Ledbetter also served as chair-elect of the 78th annual Southern Legislative Conference meeting.

Registration will open in February at csgsouth.org.