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2026 will be an unspeakably busy election cycle in the Yellowhammer State. Every constitutional state office will be on the ballot, from Governor and Lieutenant Governor to Attorney General and Secretary of State, on down to the entirety of the Alabama Legislature. All seven members of Congress will be on the ballot, including the successful candidate in the 2nd Congressional District, as well as U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville if he decides to run for reelection to his six-year term. 

Governor Kay Ivey, Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, Attorney General Steve Marshall, and Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate will each be ineligible to run for reelection to their current offices, as they are term limited. 

The turnover itself isn’t rare. But the number of term-limited officials with races left to win is. Which begs the question: Who will run for Governor? 

Will Ainsworth

After a term representing the Guntersville area in the Alabama House, Will Ainsworth made a long-shot bid for the lieutenant governorship and pulled it off 51.5%. In the time since, Ainsworth has faced no real threat to his office, and has cemented his political capital as one of the hardest working elected officials in the state. 

That will be evident for whoever takes over as lieutenant governor, as Ainsworth has reinvented the role through the creation and expansion of commissions responsible for legislative achievements. From school choice to workforce development to cutting the state’s grocery tax to helping make Alabama the most military-friendly state in the nation – Ainsworth has a proven track record of getting things done – and will make that case to voters if he decides to run. Many say that the only reason Ainsworth would not be on the ballot in 2026 is if he wants to remain in the private sector and enjoy the business success he’s found and spend more time with his family, which both predate his political career.

Brass tacks is that his name identification has increased each year, his ability to fundraise is effectively unmatched, and his grassroots operation is primed and ready to go. This, in combination with his conservative message and big ideas that voters want to hear more about – including widening I-65 to six lanes up and down the state – is a recipe for success in 2026. 

Steve Marshall

Being term limited in his current job is a shame, as Marshall is so effective as the state’s top law enforcement and prosecutorial official. He’s taken the role to new heights through partnerships with other state AGs and has earned a national platform in the process. Alabama trusts Marshall through the conservative work of his office – as well as his work ethic on the campaign trail. 

It seems likely that Marshall’s current consideration for a gubernatorial run in 2026 relies on a pressing contingency: Will U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville be appointed to the cabinet of a second Trump Administration in the next six months? If so, Marshall is the man to beat in that race after Governor Ivey appoints someone to fill the vacancy. While it’s less clear if Ivey would appoint Marshall at that time – his federal electability is likely much more powerful than his statewide electability. 

Other factors influencing a Marshall bid for governor in ‘26 include two essential ingredients in a statewide race: Voter base and fundraising. He and Ainsworth spent the majority of their lives in Marshall County and were both elected to their first office there. While Marshall has been firmly planted in Montgomery since being appointed as attorney general in 2017, Ainsworth has been back and forth between Guntersville and Montgomery, where his family and real estate business are located. This also relates to fundraising, as Ainsworth has over $1,000,000 cash on hand and is capable of self-funding his campaign, compared to $200,000 sitting in Marshall’s warchest. 

Marshall, one of the state’s loudest and most vibrant conservatives, more than anyone on this list, is weighing his options. No matter which office he runs for, he’ll leverage a grassroots operation that covers every corner of the state to attempt a successful bid. 

Rick Pate

A former mayor, GOP county party chairman, and now Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, Rick Pate pulled off his first successful statewide bid in 2018. Pate is very good at his job, and he’d likely continue serving if not for being term limited. Rick Pate is always on the campaign trail. His relationships with party and local elected officials runs deep and his active presence keeps him top of mind for key constituencies across the state. But Pate is unlikely to self-fund his race, he has yet to prove his ability to fundraise at this level, and he isn’t yet a known commodity among the state’s business community.

As he mulls a run for governor in 2026, he knows what a tough decision that will present for primary voters. With Ainsworth’s bid in motion, Pate’s name ID, and network of county campaign chairs will need to be revved up quickly and strategically. But Pate seems very interested. 

Tommy Tuberville

As Alabama’s senior senator approaches the end of his six-year term, he and everyone else are asking: What’s next for Coach? Sen. Tuberville’s political trajectory hinges on a Trump victory in November – regardless of whether he leads from the Senate or leads in the cabinet as a department secretary. The chances of Tuberville getting the nod from Trump to serve in his second administration are high. If Trump is defeated in November, Tuberville could be more motivated than ever to double down on his crusade in the Senate, holding Democrats’ feet to the fire, especially if Republicans earn a Senate majority in November. If Tuberville decides not to run for reelection to the U.S. Senate in 2026 after a Trump loss – it’s likely that he’ll opt out of running for governor for similar reasons. But, no matter what statewide office he runs for, expect to see Coach in the red zone. 

Lindy Blanchard

Lindy Blanchard, a vocal supporter and ally of Donald Trump, received 126,202 votes in the 2022 midterm election – leaving her in an interesting position to run for the governorship in 2026. Blanchard was appointed to serve as a United States Ambassador to Slovenia during the Trump administration in 2016 and was able to self-fund her campaign in 2022. If interested, she could comfortably do that again. Lindy recently told supporters at a Capital City Republican Women event that she has not yet decided to run for Governor again but that “it’s always a possibility.”

Lew Burdette

First-time candidate Lew Burdette received 42,924 votes in the midterm election for Governor, showing a decent stance for a political newcomer with limited capital. Burdette crippled his campaign in 2022 by limiting his campaign contributions to $10,000. Lew made this move to show good faith while making a point to the political system, and it cost him. Lew Burdette is a former COO of Book-a-Million and now serves as President of King’s Home, a Christian-based non-profit serving abused women and children in Alabama.

Randall Woodfin

Now in his seventh year as Mayor of Birmingham, Randall Woodfin has higher office written all over him. Woodfin is currently one of the most battle-tested grassroots organizers in Alabama. He has the motivation to scale that operation up and he’s been on the ballot every cycle he could since 2009. In fact, he started campaigning for his first campaign for mayor over a year in advance. But, is that office Governor of Alabama? Probably not. We would’ve already seen it coming. Woodfin, sixteen years younger than 7th District Congresswoman Terri Sewell, will likely have his time to run for that seat when the time comes. 

Doug Jones

After being sent home from the U.S. Senate by the voters of Alabama in 2020, Jones hasn’t been very quiet. He joined CNN as a talking head, became personally active on social media, and waged an unsuccessful war on the Joe Reed faction of the Alabama Democratic Party. While Jones feigns interest in state politics as a vassal to make his case for socialism, it’s highly unlikely he has the interest or the energy to run for governor in ‘26. Besides, Jones probably finds it difficult to picture himself in Montgomery while being the current favorite for Attorney General under a Kamala Harris administration. 

Bruce Pearl 

This is a long shot for someone who has never been afraid to pop a shot in his life — but we’d love to cover that campaign.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

As Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair and a task force of economic development professionals develop a comprehensive strategic plan to guide the state’s economic growth into the future, Working for Alabama is quickly materializing in another round of all-star appointments to a key entity, the Alabama Growth Alliance.

On Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey announced the appointment of eight distinguished leaders from the private sector to chart course for statewide, economic success.

“The experienced business leaders on the Alabama Growth Alliance will be able to lend key support to the forward-looking strategies outlined in the new economic development plan,” Governor Ivey said. “By working together, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous Alabama for generations to come.”

Appointments to the Alabama Growth Alliance: 

Governor Ivey serves as chair of the Alliance, Secretary Ellen McNair serves as co-chair, and officials from the legislative branch serve as ex-officio members, including Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed, Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, as well as Governor Ivey’s Finance Director and the Chair of Innovate Alabama, Bill Poole.

Today’s appointments to the Alabama Growth Alliance come just after an initial round of business and industry selections for the Alabama Workforce Board and its Executive Committee — who all share in the goal of preparing Alabama to meet future economic challenges with a well-equipped and skilled labor force. A central element to the Working for Alabama approach involves the integration of leaders from industry — as well as the consolidation of duplicative efforts into the agile groups now taking shape.

As the Alabama Growth Alliance gets to work on October 1, and a comprehensive strategy is delivered, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce Ellen McNair said the Alliance will be a tremendous addition to the economic development team.

“The business leaders appointed to this public-private partnership will assist us as we move to capitalize on high-impact growth opportunities that will make a difference in the lives of Alabamians,” said McNair.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Birmingham-Southern College is broadening its search for a buyer for its 192-acre campus by soliciting offers outside the state of Alabama. The shuttered institution announced it is working with a New York-based real estate brokerage to market the sale of the campus, which closed in May.

“BSC continues to have productive discussions with prospective buyers from within Alabama,” Daniel Coleman, president of Birmingham-Southern told AL.com. “However, given our responsibility to obtain the best price on the best terms for the campus, we are also open to approaches from outside the state. We will not disclose the details of our interactions with any prospective buyers.”

BSC retained Keen-Summit Capital Partners LLC and JLL executive vice president Hugo Isom of Birmingham to market the property as a “rare opportunity” to acquire the “largest college campus for sale” in the United States.

In a surreal one-page flyer advertising the campus for sale, BSC is referred to as a “Turnkey World-Class Campus” with 60 buildings on 192 acres.

RELATED: Birmingham-Southern College to officially close

“This is the premier college campus available for sale in the U.S. right now. It would be perfect for a college or university looking to expand or establish a satellite medical, technology, life science or other specialty campus,” David Levy, managing director of Keen-Summit Capital Partners LLC, said.

Birmingham-Southern’s financial challenges stemmed from a series of management and fiscal missteps. According to Alabama State Treasurer Young Boozer, the private college miscalculated millions in Pell Grant awards, depleted a $130 million endowment, and faced a downgrade of its bonds to junk status by Moody’s Investor Service. Boozer denied the school a $30 million loan approved by state lawmakers in 2023 due to insufficient collateral.

Alabama A&M University made an offer to purchase the campus for approximately $52 million in May. Separately, a collective offer was being considered by a consortium of Alabama HBCUs. The A&M proposal, which eventually totaled $65.5 million, was ultimately rejected, and other HBCUs are still exploring options to purchase the campus.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

State Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman) has been released from UAB Hospital and is recovering at home following a serious accident on Smith Lake last month. On Tuesday, his wife provided an update on his condition, expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who have reached out to them, and called on the power of prayer to continue her husband’s recovery.

In a video posted to social media, Heather Gudger detailed that the two-term senator sustained significant injuries, including five fractured ribs, eight fractured vertebrae, a collapsed lung, and a punctured artery in his spleen that caused internal bleeding. He also suffered a concussion, resulting in double vision.

He was initially airlifted to UAB Hospital, where he underwent a surgical procedure to address the internal bleeding and remained in the Intensive Care Unit for several days.

RELATED: State Sen. Garlan Gudger issues first statement from hospital – ‘healing comes from God’

“Other than that, we are home. We are thankful to be home. There’s nothing like sleeping in your own bed at night and having our dogs back with us,” Mrs. Gudger said. “Anything that could have gone bad during the situation has actually gone good, and we’re blessed for that.”

“So if there’s anything anyone can continue to do at this time, that is, pray for healing. I believe God has plans for Garlan — and he’s not finished with him. Doctor said he shouldn’t be here, or he should be paralyzed. I believe God’s working through our family right now and during this time we’re able to spend together. I believe we’re growing stronger together, but I do want all of you to know that we appreciate everything you’ve been doing.”

 

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Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

A bill before Congress sponsored by U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) related to the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI) and its effort to establish parity with other federally-recognized tribes is the subject of an effort to raise baseless concern over the expansion of gambling in Alabama.

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Land Act (HR 6180) is co-sponsored by U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham), Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) and Dale Strong (R-Monrovia). The one-page bill seeks to update the Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 to ensure that PCI lands taken into trust are treated the same as those of other tribes in response to a 2009 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court. 

“The sole purpose of my bill, HR 6180 – The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Land Act, is to update the Indian Reorganization Act to ensure Poarch Creek’s land taken into trust is treated the same under federal law as are sovereign lands of most other federally recognized Indian tribes,” U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl said. 

The 2009 Carcieri ruling foundationally changed the interpretation of the Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 by determining that the federal government could only take lands into trust for tribes that were “under federal jurisdiction” at the time the IRA was enacted. 

For PCI, recognized in 1984 by the United States, the ruling challenged the status of their lands and those of other tribal nations and their exemption from state laws, including gambling restrictions. That legal uncertainty brought about legislative actions by tribes, like HR 6180, which simply affirms the IRA applies to their existing lands.

RELATED: Poarch Band of Creek Indians welcomes U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland

In the wake of claims made by an anti-gambling legal scholar that the legislation would open the door to gambling expansion on all PCI lands in Alabama, U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl as well as the tribe itself, released information clarifying the basic intent of the legislation.

“I introduced my bill to ensure the Poarch Creek have a fair playing field so they can continue to do this work and further grow their impact,” Rep. Carl said.

“My bill has absolutely nothing to do with gaming, does not change a single law regarding gaming in Alabama, and does not change the federal oversight process for Indian Gaming. The federal government regulates Indian Gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, National Indian Gaming Commission regulations, and an entire review process by the U.S. Department of the Interior.”

The stigma related to accusations of gambling expansion by tribes who utilize legislation to reestablish their trust status since the 2009 ruling is not new. 

“There is a misperception that the Department commonly accepts off-reservation land into trust for gaming purposes. However, the facts show that of the 1,300 trust acquisitions since 2008, fewer than 15 were for gaming purposes and even fewer were for off-reservation gaming purposes,” Kevin Washburn, Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of Interior told Congress.

According to PCI, the Indian Reorganization Act authorizes the Department of the Interior to place tribal government-owned fee land into trust and nothing more. State and local governments are notified and have an opportunity to negotiate and work with the Tribe. 

The PCI legislation currently before Congress has the support of all local governments that have Tribal trust lands in their areas, including the Elmore County Commission, the Escambia County Commission, the Montgomery County Commission Chair, the Montgomery City Council Chair, the Mayor of Atmore, as well as the Alabama House and Senate members who represent PCI constituency. 

“Poarch Creek has invested into dozens of businesses all over Alabama and the world, including real estate, agriculture, education, health care, entertainment, and so much more,” Rep. Carl said. “This continued investment has created thousands of jobs and revitalized so many communities and families.”

A companion to the House bill (S3263) was also introduced by U.S. Senators Britt and Tuberville.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

In October 2025, Alabama’s workforce development efforts will be led by a newly appointed Secretary of Workforce. Ahead of that, the Alabama Workforce Council and State Workforce Development Board were combined into the newly established Alabama Workforce Board — which Governor Kay Ivey made appointments to today.

The activation of industry and business leaders through the Alabama Workforce Board and its Executive Committee is a key component of the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act and the broader Working for Alabama package of legislation signed into law earlier this year.

“I am pleased to appoint Jeff Peoples, president & CEO of Alabama Power, to chair the Executive Committee of the Alabama Workforce Board, and to appoint Phil Webb, president & CEO of Webb Concrete, to chair the newly established Alabama Workforce Board. We are stronger together by joining forces with private sector leaders to ensure our workforce needs are prioritized,” Governor Ivey said.

The Executive Committee of the Alabama Workforce Board will provide a strategic vision and plans for all of Alabama’s workforce development programs, including those funded with state and federal sources.

“Activating Alabamians with meaningful career opportunities and providing the necessary training and resources to get them there, helps strengthen our communities,” Jeff Peoples said. “Today, Alabama is taking steps to reorient our state’s workforce development system to better serve people and grow our state. I am pleased to work with Governor Ivey and other state leaders in that effort.”

RELATED: ‘Working for Alabama’ signed into law as state sets course for economic, workforce growth

The Executive Committee will also provide an annual budget recommendation and an annual plan for coordinating Alabama’s workforce development activities with the education and economic development systems. The Alabama Workforce Board also includes one member of the Alabama Senate appointed by the presiding officer of the Senate and one member of the Alabama House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House.

Executive Committee of the Alabama Workforce Board
Alabama Workforce Board

Governor Ivey spoke with members of the Executive Committee Monday and expressed her confidence and appreciation in the group she assembled. The appointments are effective October 1, 2024.

“Throughout my tenure as governor, no matter what it is we are trying to accomplish, I ask what we can do today to prepare our state for success in the future. No doubt, ensuring we have an equipped workforce is critical as we look to fill jobs today – and in the future,” said Governor Ivey.

“I am proud to assemble a group of some of our state’s business and industry leaders to work with us as we streamline our workforce development efforts. While we have made progress in increasing our state’s low labor force participation rate, there is still much to accomplish, and we are well on our way to doing that.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

The forestry and forest products manufacturing industry contributes more than $36.3 billion to Alabama’s economy according to the latest IMPLAN study commissioned by the Forest Workforce Training Institute (ForestryWorks®).

Jacksonville State University’s Center for Economic Development and Business Research conducted a study that showed an almost $7.4 billion increase from the previous study of $28.9 billion impact in 2019.

“Historically, the forest products industry has played a significant role in Alabama’s economy,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “As a forest landowner and native of Wilcox County, I know personally how important the industry is to rural economies across the state. In Alabama, we are committed to growing our rural communities and the continued growth of the forest products industry is a key part of our strategy.”

According to the study, more than 54,000 Alabamians are directly employed by the forest products industry and a total of 123,624 people are employed because of the economic activity generated from Alabama’s forest industry, contributing over $8 billion of labor income to the state.

RELATED: Alabama’s wood pellet industry plays an important role

“Alabama’s healthy forests and abundant forest resources are a key factor in the growth of the forest products industry,” said State Forester Rick Oates with the Alabama Forestry Commission. “According to our most recent Forest Inventory Analysis work, Alabama’s forests are growing 84% more timber than is being harvested each year, so there’s much more room for growth in the forest products industry.”

“Alabama’s abundant forest resources, friendly business environment and willing and well trained workforce combine to make Alabama a very attractive location for forest products  companies,” said Chris Isaacson, President and CEO of the Alabama Forestry Association.  “Over the last ten years, forest products companies have invested an average of $840 million every year, creating more than 1,000 new jobs per year.”

This continued growth in the forest products industry creates increasing demands for workers and Alabama is well-positioned to meet those demands. AIDT, a division of the Alabama State Department of Commerce, provides substantial resources to employers to stand up a new workforce and provide needed training.

Another factor contributing to the growth of the forest industry in Alabama is ForestryWorks®, a forest industry-focused workforce development program. “ForestryWorks® is committed to working with forest industry employers to educate potential employees about forestry, promote careers in the industry and build pathways to needed training to qualify for those careers,” said Stephanie Fuller, Director of Promotion for the Forest Workforce Training Institute.

“In 2023, ForestryWorks® reached over 29,000 students throughout the state with forestry education and career opportunity resources. The Forest Worker Career Readiness Indicator curriculum is available in 228 public schools within the Alabama Department of Education system.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) largest generating asset and the third-largest nuclear power producer in the U.S., celebrated its 50th anniversary on Thursday. On August 1, 1974, Browns Ferry Unit 1 began commercial operation, making its three reactors the first globally to produce over 1,000 megawatts of power.

Currently, Browns Ferry generates up to 3,954 MW of carbon-free energy, supplying electricity to over 2 million homes and businesses in the Tennessee Valley region. As the plant marks its half-century milestone, TVA is investing in upgrades to ensure long-term energy needs are met.

“Our continued investment in Browns Ferry is a reflection of our commitment to providing an affordable, reliable, and clean energy future,” Jeff Lyash, TVA President and CEO, said. “We believe nuclear energy will play a critical role in our region and nation’s energy future. Optimizing and extending the life of facilities like Browns Ferry will ensure that we continue to deliver affordable, reliable, and clean energy for decades to come.”

“All of TVA’s employees, both past and present, demonstrate a dedication to operational excellence, safety, environmental stewardship, emergency preparedness and embracing new technology. Without question, the employees at Browns Ferry live up to the plant’s name ‘The Pride of the Valley’ and have so much to be proud of on this 50th anniversary.”

Browns Ferry has approximately 1,500 workers onsite, comprised of TVA employees and contractor partners, and is a Top Quartile Fleet Performer in the nuclear industry.

“As we experience growth in the Valley, our customers depend on our ability to meet demand and we are continuing to invest heavily in the plant’s assets to meet this commitment,” said Daniel Komm, Browns Ferry Nuclear Site Vice President. “The complexity of our work at Browns Ferry and the value we place on safe, reliable operation requires teamwork. There are so many individuals who’ve helped us get to this point, and we have an opportunity to create a new legacy for the next 50 years.”

The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA was established 90 years ago to serve the region.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt also marked the milestone on Monday saying, “Unleashing American energy dominance means all forms of energy, including nuclear. Nuclear energy will help power America’s future, and I’m proud Alabama is a national leader.”

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1818687089707565336

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2025 Defense Appropriations Act on Monday, proposing to allocate $852.2 billion focused on enhancing U.S. military readiness and capabilities and supporting servicemembers and families

U.S. Senator Katie Britt, a member of the committee, announced she secured more than $6.1 billion in defense spending for the state of Alabama in the bill.

“Alabama is at the forefront of America’s defenses—building the world’s arsenal, providing invaluable intelligence, training our airmen, and so much more. When I joined the Appropriations Committee I promised I would bring home Alabamians’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“Today, we’re doing not only that but also making strategic investments that would make our nation safer and give our troops a deserved pay bump.”

RELATED: Mike Rogers: No U.S. servicemember should have to rely on food stamps

Britt supported funding for Alabama in the FY25 DOD Appropriations Bill, which includes:

The DOD Appropriations Bill for FY2025 also includes a 4.5% military pay raise for most service members and a 5.5% total pay raise for the most junior enlisted service members, as well as an increased budget to improve recruitment and retention.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Alabama Blockchain Study Commission convened for its inaugural meeting on Tuesday, with industry leaders and regulatory officials urging a cautious approach as the state explores the potential of blockchain technology.

State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore) who chairs the committee, emphasized the importance of determining Alabama’s role in regulating and utilizing blockchain technology, which underpins cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

“Blockchain, Bitcoin, cryptocurrency has hit national and international news and is being developed and continuing to expand,” Albritton said. “The question that I think this body ought to consider is what is Alabama’s role in that so that we can determine what place, if any, Alabama has as a state to control or regulate that.”

The commission was established earlier this year through a joint resolution introduced by Albritton. Its mandate is to research how the state could best utilize blockchain technology and determine appropriate regulations.

Blockchain technology acts as a secure public ledger that records and verifies transactions. While considered secure, it remains far less regulated than traditional financial institutions. Among the commission’s appointees are lawmakers, state agency leaders, and industry stakeholders, including Wade Preston of the Alabama Blockchain Alliance.

Preston pointed to California’s recent adoption of blockchain to digitize 42 million car titles, suggesting Alabama could similarly enhance its record-keeping efficiency and security.

“We have a lot of inefficiencies – allegedly – within government structures, especially when it comes to record keeping,” Preston said. “We also have a lot of vulnerabilities when it comes to servers and the surface area for bad actors to be able to attack, steal peoples’ identities and whatnot, and blockchain offers solutions to these inefficiencies and security issues.”

RELATED: Alabama establishes Blockchain Study Commission

Amanda Senn, director of the Alabama Securities Commission, expressed concerns about compliance issues and fraud in the cryptocurrency industry, urging lawmakers to be thorough in crafting regulations.

“Many of these companies that are popping up around cryptocurrency that are allowing consumers and investors to deposit their assets (or) make loans with these digital assets are not complying with laws that are required of financial institutions in this state,” Senn said. “Some of the crypto firms are charging fees that would never be allowed by any of our regulated financial entities, and so it’s just not fair for these organizations to pop up and operate like financial institutions to the detriment of our legitimate licensed financial industry.”

Mike Hill, superintendent of the State Banking Department, echoed Senn’s caution, highlighting concerns about the ability to track money within the current system and the need for some regulation without over-regulating the industry.

Rep. Mike Shaw (R-Hoover) emphasized the need to balance regulation with creating a welcoming environment for cryptocurrency and blockchain investments in Alabama.

“It’s very important that we work with crypto companies and make sure this is a friendly environment for crypto companies, we want them to stay here,” Shaw said. “There’s opportunities for our state, for employment, but there’s also just advantages to us being on the forefront of bringing these companies in in a positive way. I want this state to be very friendly to blockchain companies, but I also want to make sure our people are protected too.”

RELATED: State Rep. Mike Shaw on cryptocurrency: ‘My main concern is making sure that Alabama is a blockchain-friendly state’

Preston warned that Alabama could miss out on significant growth opportunities if it does not embrace blockchain technology. He compared the current climate to the early days of the internet, predicting that blockchain and cryptocurrency could grow from a $2 trillion to a $50-$100 trillion asset class within the next decade.

“Right now the question is, is Alabama going to be able to take advantage of this monumental growth in value? Or are we going to let it pass us by?” Preston said.

The commission will continue to meet and is expected to issue an initial report by the third day of the legislative session in February, with a final report due in the 2026 session.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Medical Association of the State of Alabama and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners announced today that applications are now being accepted for an innovative program designed to increase the number of doctors in the state.

During the 2023 legislative session, state lawmakers passed the Physician Workforce Act, which is continuing to address a talent gap in the state’s medical workforce.

The Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program, established under the Physician Workforce Act signed by Governor Kay Ivey in 2023, allows medical school graduates who did not match into residency programs to gain valuable experience and skills under the supervision of licensed physicians.

Alabama joins 10 other states with similar initiatives. Qualified applicants will receive a permit to practice medicine under an Alabama-licensed physician, valid for one year and renewable for an additional year.

In addition to the Bridge Year program, the Physician Workforce Act streamlines the process for out-of-state physicians to practice in Alabama by removing an in-person testing requirement for medical licensure and allows international medical graduates to apply for a medical license a year earlier during their training.

RELATED: State’s cure for doctor shortage goes into effect next week

The Physician Workforce Act garnered support from numerous organizations, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the University of South Alabama, the Free Clinics Association, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and various medical specialty groups.

“There is a growing shortage of physicians in Alabama, leading to delays in patient care,” said Dr. Amanda Williams, President of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. “The Bridge Year program is a key part of the Physician Workforce Act and a crucial step toward ensuring more Alabamians have access to the physician-led, team-based care they need.”

“There are many reasons medical graduates may not match into residency programs, often due to limited residency slots,” said William Perkins, Executive Director of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

“The Bridge Year program will help alleviate Alabama’s physician shortage and provide these graduates with additional training as they reapply for residency.”

For more information on the Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program, visit www.albme.gov.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced the arrest of Terry Andrew Heflin, a Democrat running for District 5 of the Clay County Commission, on 7 felony counts of voter fraud Wednesday.

Heflin, 45, a resident of Clay County, was charged with 7 counts of unlawful use of absentee ballots, according to AG Marshall’s office. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Heflin falsified applications to vote absentee for multiple people and then used those people’s names to vote for himself by absentee ballot. Each count of unlawful use of an absentee ballot is a Class C felony punishable by 1 year and 1 day to 10 years in prison.

Heflin turned himself in to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and is currently being held at the Clay County jail. The case is being prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Special Prosecutions Division.

After the announcement of Heflin’s arrest, Speaker of the House of Representatives Nathaniel Ledbetter reflected that legislation passed earlier this year by the Alabama Legislature cracking down on ballot harvesting was a necessary and effective decision.

“I’m proud of the Legislature’s efforts to safeguard the integrity of Alabama’s elections,” Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said. “We have a very important election coming up in November, and I have full confidence that it will be safe and secure in the great state of Alabama.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Alabama Port Authority and a coalition of groups native to Coastal Alabama are demanding the Mobile Baykeeper and out-of-state environmentalist group, the Center for Biological Diversity, withdraw its intent to file a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, warning that the legal action threatens the state’s largest economic driver.

The lawsuit involves dredging activities for the Mobile Port expansion. It claims the Corps failed to protect the Gulf sturgeon and alleges that the disposal of 90 million cubic yards of dredge material into Mobile Bay will harm water clarity and marine life. Despite the Corps’ compliance, the Baykeeper is pursuing legal action to stall the project over claims of environmental impact.

The expansion, which has been meticulously planned and approved over many years, is set to widen and deepen the port, enabling it to accommodate larger ships and increase commerce through Alabama and across the United States. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the State of Alabama have fully funded the $366 million harbor modernization program. 

The letter charges that the Port has been working in good faith with Baykeeper and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on environmental priorities, including the safe use of dredge material.

“With this letter, the Port is again inviting Baykeeper and its out-of-state activists to stop pursuing litigation that could delay the most important economic development project in the State of Alabama,” a spokesperson for the Alabama Port Authority said. “The Port’s message is clear: drop the threat of a lawsuit, and let’s work together to achieve our shared goal of protecting Mobile Bay.”

RELATED: Bradley Byrne: Mobile Baykeeper lawsuit against U.S. Army supported by ‘very leftwing organization’

“Unfortunately, Baykeeper, in partnership with an out-of-state activist organization, has defaulted to a combative approach and now threatens to halt a project that has been thoroughly vetted and will bring both environmental and economic benefits to Mobile Bay and our region,” the letter reads. 

“The Alabama Port Authority and its undersigned supporters strongly advise Mobile Baykeeper to formally withdraw its intent to file a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This action is a direct threat to the State’s largest economic driver, the Port, risking the prosperity of Alabamians in each of our State’s 67 counties.”

John Driscoll, Director of the Alabama Port Authority lead the letter, which was also signed by the top officials of the Mobile Chamber, the Economic Development Association of Alabama, Manufacture Alabama, the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, the Business Council of Alabama, Coastal 150, Partners for Environmental Progress, and the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program.

“Although we appreciate Mobile Baykeeper’s recent public profession of the organization’s support for the harbor project and the economic prosperity it will bring, direct legal action – as described by Baykeeper – threatens to bring this to a halt. Quite simply, Mobile Baykeeper cannot claim to be for this project while also taking direct action to stop it.

“With the generational impact and importance of this project in mind, and along with our fellow signatories, the Alabama Port Authority implores you, leaders of Mobile Baykeeper, to rescind the organization’s threat of legal action against the Port’s Harbor Modernization Project and come to the table in a collaborative manner to achieve our shared goals of protecting our bay and our way of life.”

The Mobile Port expansion project concluded its General Reevaluation Report (GRR) over five years ago, a public process involving any interested entities, including the Mobile Baykeeper. The project received federal approval under 20 applicable environmental and endangered species protection laws. It also received thorough reviews by federal and state regulatory agencies, including the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, National Marine Fisheries Service, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Coast Guard, and the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

At age 83, former State Rep. John Rogers has been sentenced to 13 months in federal prison for his role in a kickback scheme involving public funds intended for nonprofits. The former Birmingham Democrat, who resigned from the Alabama House of Representatives in March, also faces three years of supervised release and must repay $197,950 to the Jefferson County Community Service Fund.

U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler handed down the sentence Tuesday in Birmingham. Rogers, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and conspiracy to obstruct justice, has until Sept. 3 to report to prison. Coogler recommended a facility near Birmingham to allow Rogers to remain close to his two daughters.

The scheme involved Rogers directing approximately $400,000 to the Piper Davis Youth Baseball League, operated by former State Rep. Fred Plump, who then funneled half the money back to Rogers’ assistant, Varrie Johnson Kindall. Both Plump and Kindall have also been sentenced for their involvement.

During Rogers’ sentencing, Judge Coogler stated that Plump spent $200,000 on children in the baseball league, while “Rogers and Kindall spent it on themselves.”

“You did worse than him in the conduct,” Judge Coogler told Rogers. “You’re far more culpable than him.”

RELATED: State Rep. John Rogers pleads guilty

Assistant U.S. Attorney George Martin used the sentencing as a warning to other lawmakers. “John Rogers has received his punishment,” Martin said. “You will get caught. You will go to jail.”

Rogers expressed remorse during his sentencing, stating, “I’m sorry about the whole escapade and I take full responsibility. It hurts me to no end.”

Rogers’ sentence marks the end of his long political career, which began in 1982. His downfall serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of corruption in public office.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) announced a refreshed visual identity system following extensive brand research conducted over the past few years.

The updated visual identity includes new logos, colors, and branding elements designed to enhance UAB’s visibility and reputation. For the first time in UAB’s history, the primary logo will be shared across the university, medicine, and athletics, creating a unified brand image.

“A brand refresh is a strategic investment in our future, and it will take years to fully implement our new logos on all UAB buildings and other instances in the physical environment,” Rosie O’Beirne, Chief Digital Strategy and Marketing Officer for UAB said.  The phased approach we are taking will allow us to implement change in a fiscally responsible way.”

Key Changes in UAB’s New Identity

Branded House Model
UAB adopted a unified primary logo across all entities — university, medicine, and athletics — following a common model among other national university brands.

Refreshed Monogram
The new monogram features a cleaner design with spaced lettering for improved legibility and recognition, particularly for stakeholders outside the region. This monogram can be used alone or as a lockup with the word mark, offering new flexibility to increase brand recognition.

Unified Medicine Model
UAB Medicine will share primary colors and fonts with the university and athletics, representing medical education, research, and clinical care. Detailed guidelines will be released with the full launch in January 2025.

Refreshed Color Palette
The official colors are re-established as green and gold, with the updated palette featuring a richer, darker green and a brighter gold. These changes ensure web accessibility and expand the availability of branded merchandise.

Brand Font
Aktiv Grotesk, a modern sans-serif font, enhances readability and brings a contemporary look to UAB’s communications. The new logo features title case in the primary lockup, improving visual appeal and accessibility.

New Primary Athletics Logo
The athletics logo now includes a strong gold outline, distinguishing it from the university and UAB Medicine logos. Blaze, the secondary logo for athletics, will continue to be used as a university-wide spirit mark with minor enhancements to match the updated color palette.

The official brand launch is set for January 2025. However, the university has begun a soft launch this fall, with the updated logos appearing in key areas such as newly constructed buildings, student recruitment materials, and the scoreboard at Protective Stadium.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270. 

Alabama’s business recruitment team concluded a successful mission at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow, targeting over half a dozen growth projects and gaining fresh insights into trends shaping the future of aerospace, aviation, and defense.

During the airshow, Alabama’s delegation engaged in many scheduled appointments with industry executives and numerous informal discussions with aerospace company officials.

Among all the high-profile business, state and federal officials involved, President of the Mobile Chamber and former Congressman Bradley Byrne said one leader shined on the world stage.

“First of all, Lieutenant Governor Ainsworth is with us and I just can’t say enough about what he did during the airshow, not just to push Mobile, but to be able to push all of Alabama — he was terrific,” Byrne said.

“I mean, I can’t tell you how good he was at what he did — and I didn’t know that about him. What I knew was I had friendship with him. But I didn’t know he was that good. I was very impressed.”

https://x.com/willainsworthAL/status/1816170906739433769

Byrne highlighted the productive meetings with major aerospace players, including Airbus and SP Aerospace, as well as newer companies with which Alabama has not previously had direct discussions. “We had a great reception Monday night in London with terrific attendance and good interaction,” Byrne said. He emphasized the strategic importance of maturing Airbus’s third production line next year, positioning Alabama as the fourth largest producer of commercial aircraft globally.

RELATED: Alabama team uncovers potential growth projects at Farnborough Airshow

Byrne explained the mutual benefits of attracting suppliers to Mobile, facilitated by close collaboration with Airbus. “The future for the aviation sector in Mobile is very broad,” he stated. “I’m just pleased with the entire local effort and the state effort to continue reaching out, bringing more businesses here, and expanding the ones we’ve already got.”

With 1,260 exhibitors from 44 countries, the Farnborough Airshow is celebrated for showcasing cutting-edge technologies revolutionizing the aerospace and aviation sectors. Alabama faced strong competition, with 33 other U.S. states also representing their aerospace sectors.

The Alabama team aimed to build on a decade of growth, where aerospace, defense, and aviation companies have invested over $4.3 billion and created almost 12,000 jobs in the state. Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair emphasized the unique opportunity Farnborough presents for renewing relationships and forging new connections with industry decision-makers.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X at @Grayson270

Regions Bank, while Alabama based, enables businesses to succeed in international trade. A particular team at Regions has been involved in global trade for more than 100 years through its predecessor banks: Global Trade Finance. That legacy was recognized earlier this year in a historic way in receiving the U.S. Department of Commerce’s “E” Award for Export Service – virtually a once-in-a-lifetime honor – for the second time. 

Head of Global Trade Finance at Regions, Carson Strickland, spoke with Yellowhammer News about the bank’s work supporting companies in its backyard throughout Alabama — as well as the factors that might guide international trade for businesses worldwide in the coming years. 

“Alabama has seen incredible success in providing made-in-Alabama products to the global marketplace. That is a testament to the strong business climate our state has created over the years. At Regions, our focus is simply to live out our bank’s mission—to make life better in the communities we serve,” Strickland said. 

“Exports are an important component to a strong and vibrant local economy. They create jobs, help expand business reach and support long-term community growth.”

RELATED: Regions Bank receives prestigious export award from U.S. Department of Commerce for first time since 1968

That impact on the visible economic success in Alabama flows the other way as well in assisting American companies expand their business internationally. 

“The most common question I receive from clients who want to export is “where do I start?” With so many government programs and small-business assistance, it can be confusing and difficult to get started. Our team has been involved in export support for decades, so we can help clients get started,” Strickland said. 

(Carson Strickland, Regions Bank/Contributed)

“Beyond that, for the specific resources that business leaders need, we offer a diverse suite of modern global trade finance options. One of the most important is our Treasury Management solutions that help improve cash flow and strategically manage liquidity, streamline payables and mitigate unnecessary risk exposure. 

“From there, Regions has specific solutions that help clients with their export needs, like export financing, payment risk mitigation, foreign exchange and financial available to exporters’ international buyers. We work one-on-one with clients to provide the right solution to meet their needs.” 

When asked about the biggest opportunities and challenges for global trade in the next few years, Strickland pointed to several factors on which he counsels his business clients.

“The geopolitical piece is the biggest influence on the international trade markets – and always has been. Geopolitical tensions continue to affect global trade in terms of costs, logistics and supply chain,” he said. “Our team is seeing more companies move out of China due to production risks and rising costs. They are shifting their supply chain to other parts of Asia, and it means finding new vendors, figuring out transportation, and other logistics, making the financial aspect challenging.”

RELATED: Regions Bank named one of America’s most innovative companies by Fortune Magazine

Strickland added that inflation continues to be a challenge as companies are borrowing for working capital and interest rates are impacting prices. “As interest rates eventually begin to come down and inflation risk decreases, we expect higher economic growth in international trade,” he said. 

“On the opportunities side, companies here in Alabama and beyond are largely feeling more positive about the outlook for the remainder of 2024 and into 2025.”

While it’s important to pay attention to trade policy preferences, Strickland says, the number one most important thing for business clients to know is this: “Control the things you can control.” 

As businesses continue to navigate the evolving landscape of international trade, one factor that remains crucial is the potential impact of political shifts. With the upcoming 2024 U.S. election on the horizon, many business leaders are closely monitoring how changes in administration and policy could influence global trade dynamics.

“If now is the right time to add exports to a business strategy, there are solutions to make it happen. If next year is the preferred desire for expansion into global markets, then have a conversation with your banker now so they are ready with solutions to help.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X at @Grayson270

As a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, U.S. Senator Katie Britt voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Specific measures within this year’s bill will allocate over $80 million to modernize and upgrade critical transportation infrastructure across Alabama, with $50 million of that tranche secured personally by Britt.

“I was proud to secure priorities that empower economic development, improve safety, and grow opportunity in our local communities,” said Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery).

Among the targeted funds, Sen. Britt secured $30.1 million for local road and bridge improvement projects throughout the state — including $20 million for the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to improve and widen SR-167 from Pike County to Coffee County, building on a similar $20 million secured for SR-167 in FY24.

$5.08 million has been allocated in North Alabama for an inland intermodal container transfer facility (ICTF) in Morgan County to enhance interstate commerce by establishing a third ICTF facility in the state. Additional funding is also inbound for public safety firefighting equipment in Henry County and ongoing riverbank stabilization and erosion control efforts in Selma.

RELATED: Alabama leaders thrilled with $550 million grant for I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project

“Since taking office, I’ve promised to work tirelessly on the Appropriations Committee to bring Alabamians’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars back home,” Britt said.

“This appropriations bill fulfills that promise once again, delivering major wins for needed transportation infrastructure improvements across Alabama – from roads and bridges in rural communities, to regional airports, to inland port infrastructure – that invest strategically and responsibly in our state and our children’s futures.”

The FY25 bill also includes $13 million for critical investments in airport infrastructure across the state, Sen. Britt’s office reports.

Other notable allocations supported by Britt include:

  • $20 million for the National Scenic Byways program, which will benefit Alabama’s Coastal Connection, Natchez Trace Parkway, Selma to Montgomery March Byway, and Talladega Scenic Drive.
  • $100 million for the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS), with Alabama expected to receive approximately $30 million. Alabama has the most uncompleted miles remaining in the ADHS.

The FY25 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X at @Grayson270

C Spire, a Mississippi-based telecommunications and technology company with a significant presence in Alabama, announced it will pull all of its advertising from the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris after a blasphemous representation of the Last Supper was prominently featured in the opening ceremony.

C Spire, the nation’s largest privately-owned wireless carrier, has invested $500 million in expanding fiber infrastructure across Alabama in the past three years alone.

https://x.com/CSpire/status/1817212284512481485

In Paris at the opening ceremony, the four-hour spectacle held along the Seine River featured performances by celebrities including Celine Dion and Lady Gaga — but was overshadowed by a grotesque imitation of “The Last Supper,” a painting by Leonardo DaVinci that depicts the last meal Jesus had with his apostles.

RELATED: Olympics opening ceremony blatantly mocks Christianity in ‘bizarre’ drag queen performance

Alabama Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth also characterized the performance as mockery. “The Olympics are meant to bring together people of all nations, races, and religions, but the opening ceremony in Paris featured a parody of Christ’s Last Supper with drag queens and promoted the LGBTQ agenda,” Ainsworth said.

“I changed the channel and watched a hunting show on TV instead. Nonetheless, I continue to support Team USA’s pursuit of gold.”

https://x.com/willainsworthAL/status/1817192184333906146

 

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X at @Grayson270

Birmingham-based QuantHub was named one of the six winners of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Building an Adaptive and Competitive Workforce track.

The Tools Competition is a multi-million dollar funding opportunity for edtech innovation that leverages digital technology, big data, and learning science to empower adult learners by developing critical competencies necessary for the 21st-century job market.

QuantHub’s award-winning solution, the QuantHub Challenge, is an AI-driven summative assessment platform that delivers personalized, real-world data science challenges through bite-sized learning modules. The tool adapts to each learner’s progress and the demands of their industry, ensuring the practical application of knowledge. By breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks, QuantHub aims to make data science skills more accessible to busy professionals.

RELATED: QuantHub, Innovate Alabama launch cutting-edge tech internship program

“QuantHub is focused on transforming education by making data science and AI skills accessible to all,” Josh Jones, CEO of QuantHub said. “Our win in this competition shows that a panel of government and industry leaders agree we’re leading the nation in delivering on that promise.”

The Building an Adaptive and Competitive Workforce track was one of six funding opportunities offered as part of the 2023-24 cycle of the Tools Competition. This year, the Tools Competition received more than 1,900 submissions from applicants across the globe, including over 230 submissions to DARPA’s track alone.

“We’re incredibly honored by this recognition from DARPA. It reaffirms the importance of our work in preparing tomorrow’s workforce for a future where AI will play an increasingly significant role,” said Jones. “The QuantHub Challenge is a major leap in closing the skills gap and making data literacy accessible. Our platform is designed to empower individuals in any field to adapt and thrive as AI technologies continue to emerge and shape the job market.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X at @Grayson270

The U.S. House Committee on Oversight will play a pivotal role in an upcoming hearing focused on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The hearing is scheduled to take place on July 23 with the three largest PBMs testifying before Congress.

With Alabama U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer sitting (R-Hoover) on the committee, the hearing is being closely watched by Alabama employers that want to offer their employees cost-effective prescription drug benefits. 

As highlighted in a recent video featuring Eric Hare, CEO of Global K9 Protection Group, Alabama employers are expressing their opposition to government interference in our health care system that would increase costs for employers, taxpayers, and consumers. 

Hare and other major employers based in the state argue that their ability to offer quality, competitive prescription drug coverage is under threat as Congress continues to consider government mandates targeting the savings PBMs secure for employers, and the options available to employers to manage and reduce prescription drug costs. 

“In a world without PBMs, where companies would have to have HR departments that understood how to negotiate or really have the leverage to negotiate against pharmaceutical companies. I don’t think it’s possible a 600, employee 1,000 employee business would have no leverage and competing against the Giants,” Hare said.

“Politicians need to understand how important it is that the PBM can work with business owners to continue to provide benefits to American workers, benefits that they feel proud about, that they go out and work for.”

During the upcoming committee hearing, it is expected that large pharmaceutical companies will seek to shift blame for high prescription drug prices onto PBMs.

But Alabama employers are fighting back against pharma-backed proposals that would block, or “delink,” pharmacy benefit companies from market-based incentives to maximize savings for plan sponsors, like employers, and could potentially impose disastrous costs on Alabama businesses while giving Big Pharma a fresh financial windfall.

Analyses show the enactment of this proposal in the Medicare Part D program and commercial health care market would increase prescription drug costs by nearly $40 billion each year and generate $32 billion in additional profits for Big Pharma.

Employers have also expressed concern with so-called “transparency requirements,” which would result in the public disclosure of proprietary information. Employers claim that these requirements just help drug companies collude to undermine competition and boost their own profits and would do nothing to lower costs for health plan sponsors.

During the upcoming hearing, Congressman Palmer and his colleagues will be faced with the opportunity to safeguard pharmacy benefits, and support competition and the free market. Alabama employers that rely on PBM’s to stay competitive are working hard to sound the alarm.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

In compliance with a law passed earlier this year by the Alabama Legislature, campuses within the University of Alabama System will eliminate all offices and programs that are based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and any other impermissible factors included under the umbrella of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). 

Instead, the University will redirect the resources previously allocated to DEI offices and initiatives within the University of Alabama System to comprehensive programs designed to support the success of all students, including those from disadvantaged Alabama communities.

According to campus administrators, these initiatives will enhance access and opportunity by recruiting and retaining students from underprivileged areas, improving connections to academic support services for groups such as veterans, active-duty military, and first-generation college students, and providing targeted educational assistance and mentoring for students from lower-performing high schools and adult learners. 

The redirected resources will also ensure that students transition smoothly from rural areas to larger university environments and are well-prepared for high-demand, high-paying jobs, primarily within the state of Alabama.

Describing the shift in resources, University of Alabama President Stuart Bell said, “We will increase access to higher education by intensifying our outreach to prospective students and their families with lower college attendance rates. We will also foster campus-wide initiatives that enhance free speech and civil discourse, provide our students with the skills that prepare them for the global workforce, and educate our students and employees on how to work effectively with individuals from various backgrounds.”

RELATED: UA System, Presidents issue update on Alabama DEI reform implementation

The new law was championed through the Alabama Legislature this year with the unanimous support of Republicans in both chambers, sponsored by State Sen. Will Barfoot (R-Pike Road), State Rep. Ed Oliver (R-Dadeville), and ultimately signed by Governor Ivey at the end of March.

It places several prohibitions into law effective October 1, 2024: State agencies, public schools, state colleges, and universities cannot use taxpayer funds for DEI offices or initiatives. State institutions are also prohibited from directing or compelling a student or employee to affirm, adopt, or adhere to any of the nine divisive concepts defined under the law. 

The law explicitly states that it will not prevent students, faculty, organizations, or associations from hosting DEI programs or discussions that may involve divisive concepts—so long as no state funds are used.

Other states across the country are implementing similar measures, most notably Florida, which recently saw its largest public college, the University of Florida, eliminate its office of diversity, instead investing a $5 million DEI earmark into a retirement fund to benefit faculty members.

The implementation at UA System campuses, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and the University of Alabama’s main campus in Tuscaloosa, will involve a systematic elimination of all DEI offices and programs that are impermissibly based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and other prohibited factors. 

RELATED: JSU announces compliance with Alabama law banning state-funded DEI programs

A comprehensive transition will require institutional adjustments, including updating policies, revising web pages, and realigning departmental priorities to comply with the new regulations. This is a meticulous adjustment for the state’s largest employer and educator, the UA System, which currently has 67,000 employees and is responsible for educating 70,000 students. 

According to administration, while university-funded DEI programs will be discontinued, private organizations such as student and faculty groups may continue their DEI activities independently, with the university potentially providing support services like security and food to these privately funded events. 

“Information related to Alabama Act 2024-34 (formerly SB 129) is available online, and additional details and guidance will be shared in the weeks ahead as we approach the Oct. 1 enforcement date,” Dr. Bell wrote to students, faculty, and staff. 

“Website updates and other processes may take time to go into effect. We appreciate The University of Alabama System leadership, including legal and government affairs, and their guidance throughout this process to help ensure our mission of teaching, research, and service remains the priority.

“Differences, including differences of opinion, shared with civility, strengthen our campus community. Our faculty, staff, and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom, and join in wide-ranging thought and discussion on issues that impact our world.”

Alabama Republican lawmakers secured a major victory after a prolonged three-year effort when Governor Kay Ivey signed into law a ban on the teaching of divisive concepts in K-12 education, state colleges and universities, and state agencies. Initially introduced in 2022 as a bill to ban the controversial critical race theory, the legislation evolved into a broader prohibition of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across Alabama’s public institutions. 

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

On Monday, Governor Kay Ivey announced today the Renewal of Alabama Commission allocated over $15.5 million in Growing Alabama funding to seven economic development organizations across the state to speed the development of industrial sites.

The communities benefiting from this cycle of Growing Alabama funding are Auburn, Brundidge, Enterprise, Fort Payne, Greene County, Coosa County and Walker County.

The Growing Alabama program provides a tax credit to eligible taxpayers who make contributions to economic development organizations for approved qualifying projects. Alabama taxpayers donating to an economic development organization receive a tax credit equal to their donation.

“We’ve been on a long winning streak when it comes to economic development, but we need to replenish our inventory of available industrial sites across the state to stay in the game,” Governor Ivey said. “The Growing Alabama program is helping us do just that.”

The following projects across the state were awarded Growing Alabama funding this cycle:

The program promotes economic development by funding industrial site readiness, a key factor for companies considering the state for a new facility or an expansion.

“The Growing Alabama program is a powerful tool to accelerate the development of shovel-ready sites, which are critically needed today as we compete for high-impact economic development projects that bring significant job creation,” said Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce Ellen McNair. “This round of Growing Alabama allocations will make a real difference for these communities.”

RELATED: Alabama solving manufacturing’s real estate problem

The Alabama Department of Commerce administers the Growing Alabama program, and the Renewal of Alabama Commission must approve all applications under the program. Secretary McNair serves as chair of the commission. The types of projects eligible for the program include site preparation of public land for industrial use and infrastructure improvements at existing industrial properties.

Qualifying activities include clearing land, upgrading infrastructure and other improvements to make sites ready for projects. Other qualifying activities may include capital improvements at inland ports or intermodal facilities and construction and maintenance for agricultural centers.

A total of $23 million is available under the Growing Alabama program this calendar year.

The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama is an additional resource for educational materials, outreach support and matchmaking for donors and communities, Governor Ivey’s office underscored.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270 

Democratic candidates who have ambition for the presidency should back off from seeking the limelight and a spot at the top of the party’s ticket, former Alabama U.S. Senator and current media pundit Doug Jones said on Sunday.

As Democrats across the country begin to clear the field for Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek a second term, Jones broadcasted his thoughts that, despite the totality of DNC delegates now being uncommitted, there should be no competition at the convention.

“But here we have a chance because of the momentum because of the infrastructure that has been built with the Biden-Harris team, because of all of the things that she has done. It is time that we rally around, I hope that Democrats across this country will both rally behind her and unify. We have got building up an extraordinary bench of talent in the Democratic Party,” Jones said.

“But now is not the time, in my view, to try to have those folks step up in such a short time with a convention only a month away.”

Jones’ call for an uncontested convention came shortly after Biden’s official endorsement of Harris to take his spot at the top of the ticket — and an initial clearing house of administrative changes to entitle Harris to Biden’s existing campaign architecture and resources.

“I would like to see all of the folks that we, again, extraordinary bench of talent, governors, senators, members of Congress, others that could step into the role of candidate as also stepped into the role of being President — but let’s hold off. I’m asking all of those folks who have eyes on that office who have the ambitions — hold off right now. Let’s rally around, and send a message to America, we are ready, we are the big tent, we are moving forward while the Republican Party has stuck in the past,” Jones said.

“I think he’s going to have more to say, and I bet he stays on the on the playing field.”

President Biden announced he would not seek reelection in a letter on Sunday, despite not appearing in public since July 17 as he undergoes treatments for Covid-19. He has no public events scheduled this week so far.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270