The bill that will allow dogs on restaurant patios is one step closer to being passed by the legislature; last week, it was approved by the Senate Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development Committee after being passed by the House earlier in the session. The bill allows restaurants to welcome leashed
You might know that Alabama’s official state insect is the regal Monarch butterfly, but the state has an official mascot too, and it’s also a butterfly, an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Read more here.
Military families make decisions on whether they continue to serve based on opportunities for education, job opportunities and healthcare; adequately addressing these issues is seen by the Pentagon as a readiness issue. Last week, the Alabama Legislature made the state “friendlier” to military members and their families when it passed
A bill designed to check Governor Ivey’s emergency powers was headed for the Senate, but has been put on pause for now. Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth and some Republican lawmakers have disagreed with several of the governor’s decisions during the the pandemic, including business restrictions and mask mandates, and feel,
Last week — the fourth of the 2021 regular session — saw debates around gay and transgender issues as well as the FY22 General Fund Budget approved by committee (meaning the House is like to take it up this week) and the passage of multiple board, agency and commission continuation bills. Here’s a rundown of
The Alabama House passed a bill that deletes from state law a requirement that sex education courses in public schools include condemnation of homosexuality. The bill by Rep. Laura Hall of Huntsville amends the state law that sets minimum requirements for sex education courses. This measure had bipartisan support and
@willainsworthAL March 4 With this legislation, AL has shown the Pentagon that we value the military bases and await future expansion and investment. I appreciate the Senate Pro Tem @SenatorGregReed, Speaker of the House @MacMcCutcheon1, and each sponsor for making the military a priority in Alabama.
Governor Kay Ivey extended Alabama’s COVID-19 health order through April 9, adding that the included mask mandate will be allowed to expire at that time. Ivey speaking during a press conference with State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris, said her decision to keep the mask mandate in place was so
The Alabama Senate passed a bill aimed at preventing minors getting medications or treatments to change genders. The Vulnerable Child Compassion and Protection Act passed 23-4. The bill makes it a felony for doctors to treat transgender minors with hormonal therapy, puberty blockers or surgery to help their transition. Supporters
Rep. Kirk Hatcher, a Democrat, won a special election for Alabama’s District 26 Senate seat. Hatcher defeated Republican William Greene with 78 percent of the vote. Hatcher says his focuses will be education, economic development and reducing crime. Congratulations Senator Hatcher!
