May 22, 2017 Group Watch: News & Views from the State House
The Alabama Legislature finished the 2017 regular session last Friday. Here’s a short recap of what passed and what didn’t.
- Redistricting: A new map of legislative districts was approved by both chambers and will now go back to federal court for approval.
- Midwife Births: Certified midwives can now legally assist with births in Alabama.
- Autism Coverage: Health insurance plans provided by companies with more than 51 employees must now include coverage for treatment therapies for children with autism. Governor Ivey signed it into law on Friday.
- Prison Construction Plan: The plan to build four new large prisons stalled amid concerns about the cost and who would win the construction contracts.
- Gun Carrry Without Permit: Despite making it through the Senate, this bill, which would have allowed individuals to carry guns without a concealed carry permit was struck down in the House, thanks in large part to vocal opposition from the law enforcement community.
- Read more about these and the other bills and laws that passed or failed here.
