The Legislature of Alabama hereby finds and determines that the advancement and improvement of higher education in the State of Alabama is a proper governmental function and purpose of the State of Alabama. Additionally, the Legislature of Alabama intends to establish a qualified ABLE Program in this state which will encourage and assist Alabama individuals and families in saving private funds for the purpose of supporting Alabama citizens with disabilities. It is therefore the legislative intent of this chapter to establish the Wallace-Folsom Savings Investment Plan that consists of the ABLE Program, ACES Program, and the PACT Program. In establishing this plan, it is further the intent of the Legislature to encourage timely financial planning for higher education and other qualified disability expenses.