Grayson Everett, Author at Yellowhammer News

Barstool Sports founder and president Dave Portnoy spent the weekend in Tuscaloosa, hosting a live college football gameday show, making the rounds on the sidelines for the Alabama-Texas matchup, and even taking his infamous One Bite pizza review segment to two local hotspots.

Portnoy put cards on the table about who he was pulling for.

“I gotta get me some Bama gear,” Portnoy said.

Barstool Pizza Review – Heat Pizza Bar (Tuscaloosa, AL) pic.twitter.com/N78ogUIXgu

— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) September 11, 2023

“When the plane landed, I was on Texas plus the points [but] I had been swayed by all the people here, I had been drinking all the Alabama Kool-Aid, the guy at the pizza place told me better win the national title, at home, under the lights – Bama, you can’t go against that – I think they’re gonna win by double digits tonight.”

Portnoy held up a Mac Jones jersey during Barstool’s gameday show, saying he’ll lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl this year.

As one of the country’s most prolific pizza critics, he stopped by two of Tuscaloosa’s hot spots during his visit. In the pecking order of notoriously critical scores handed out by Portnoy, Heat Pizza Bar (7.1) and The Standard (7.3) represented Alabama strongly.

Owner of Heat Pizza Bar, Frank Fleming, said he’s proud of the score. Even though they serve up fan-favorite exclusive pizzas like the chicken-bacon-ranch, he knew what Portnoy was looking for.

“It was a really cool, surreal moment. I’m just really thankful that he came in and put us on the map like that,” Fleming said. “The 7.1, if you know him and how he grades, that’s a really solid score. So we’re very happy with it and thankful that he came back.

“Maybe I put an extra 10 or 15 seconds more than we normally do because I know he likes the crisp.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The Biden administration’s deal with Iran to swap prisoners and release $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds is a threat to national security, according to U.S. Sen. Katie Britt.

In the deal, the U.S. State Department said Iran will release five American citizens detained in Iran and, in exchange, the U.S. will release five Iranian citizens – along with $6 billion.

The State Department has considered Iran a state sponsor of terrorism since 1984. Its financial and material support to terrorist groups Hezbollah, Houthi rebels and Shia militias is directly linked to bloodshed worldwide.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed off on the deal late last week, but Congress was not notified of the decision until Monday, the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Britt (R-Montgomery), ranking member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee, was outraged by the official notification to Congress.

This is a chilling headline. President Biden’s $6 billion ransom—to the largest state sponsor of terrorism in the world—gravely imperils U.S. national security and America’s strategic interests. https://t.co/Qr3NcdSoEq

— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) September 12, 2023

“The deal itself is shameful enough. But the Biden Administration choosing today of all days to notify Congress that the President is handing $6 billion to the biggest state sponsor of terrorism in the world just adds insult to injury,” Britt said.

While the White House insists no taxpayer funds are directly involved in the ransom payout, Republicans are saying the damage is tangibly catastrophic.

“This irresponsible, weak appeasement sends a terrible message across the globe and only incentivizes further hostage taking in the future,” Britt said.

“There is no doubt that President Biden’s actions once again endanger our national security and dishonor the sacrifice of American men and women who have fought valiantly for our country.”

Last month, Britt joined 25 Republican colleagues in demanding answers from the Biden Administration about the deal with Iran, which equates to $1.2 billion per hostage.

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) was among those Senate GOP colleagues.

“First Joe Biden used 9/11 as an excuse to flee Afghanistan. Now he desecrates this day by paying ransom to the world’s worst state sponsor of terrorism. Shameful,” Cotton wrote on Twitter. “I don’t think the radical ayatollahs in Tehran are going to use this for children’s hospitals. They’re going to use it to find more attacks on Israel, more attacks on American troops in the region through their proxies.

“They’re going to use it to send more missiles and drones to Russia for its war of aggression against Ukraine.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

A few weeks into the fall semester at the University of Alabama, a record-high number of students were walking to and from classes on a sunny morning when Yellowhammer News sat down with Dr. Stuart Bell.

This is Bell’s eighth year welcoming a freshman cohort to campus as president of the university.

“If you’re ever having a bad day, go and have a conversation with our students,” Bell said. “You’ll know our future is really bright.”

With overall enrollment projected to exceed 39,000 students at the Capstone this year – up from 38,643 the year prior – Bell doesn’t have to walk far to find a student eager to talk.

By sheer numbers, the chances he’ll cross paths with a National Merit Scholar are better than any year previous, as Bell reports a record amount of recipients in this year’s class.

Between enrollment, breakthrough success in research activity, campus growth, achievements by faculty and, of course, championships, Bell keeps track of a lot of statistics.

“I’m an engineer by training, so I love numbers,” he said.

He believes all those numbers paint a picture of why UA makes a strong case to talented students figuring out where they want to get their degree from. That case is especially strong to students within the state, as 2023 will mark the highest in-state enrollment since 2010.

“When students come to the University of Alabama, they are getting the same experience or a better experience than they could at any other leading institution in the fields that they want to study,” Bell said.

A major factor in that confidence involves a commitment to research, which has scaled significantly under Bell’s tenure. In 2018, UA received the nation’s highest designation for research activity by the Carnegie Classification.

Bell pointed to a recent $360 million grant to study and improve the nation’s prediction of water-related hazards. It marks the largest external award in the university’s history.

“We’re leading 29 other institutions from the United States. The University of Alabama is leading that group, studying the impacts of water for our country, and how important it is,” Bell said, highlighting the global scale of the work.

He praised UA’s faculty for their passion and commitment to major undertakings like this.

“When I came to campus, I listened to faculty. ‘What do they want to do? Where does faculty want to be?’ They were very clear,” he said. “‘These are the areas that we see we have great expertise and we would like the University to help us become more successful. ‘Invest in us, invest in our programs, so that we can do the things that we think are important for our state and our nation. Through our research.’

“So, that’s the pathway that we’ve been on. And it’s just a great success.”

The benefit of those outside investments starts local, reaching laboratories and classrooms, doctoral and undergraduate students alike.

“Your experience here is all about making sure that when you go out and work in an industry, in the corporate world, at an NGO, you’re taking with you an experience that is not just ‘here’s how we do things today – but here’s how we’re going to do things five years from now.’” he said.

“We do a really great job of involving students in our research.”

That immersion in the classroom and emphasis on real-world learning opportunities tracks with a discernible output: 93% of UA students have a job within six months of graduating.

“We have been very focused on making sure our students have the opportunity to get that and we’re up to date,” Bell said. “We continue to invest in that, certainly if you take a look at our facilities.”

Just this month, UA announced a $44 million U.S. Department of Commerce grant will contribute to the creation of a cutting-edge computing center on campus that will supercharge the University’s ability to engage in high-tech, high-security research.

Bell said he’s proud of the 29 construction projects completed on campus this summer.

Particularly, the newly opened Greek Assembly Hall, benefitting Greek students whether or not they have a fraternity or sorority house on campus, as well as the Randall Welcome Center, which will be many students’ first impression of their official Capstone experience.

The Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts is arguably the most exciting item in UA’s capital construction queue.

Bell spoke glowingly of those projects and the resource they will offer students. In fact, Bell related almost every subject discussed to the bottom-line, student-focused mission of UA.

“When you drive into the university, you see a sign. That sign that really talks about our mission, and it is, ‘Teaching, Research and Service.’ Those really are not separate. They all go together,” Bell said.

When asked about the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June that now prohibits race as a factor in college admissions, ending affirmative action policies in use at institutions such as Harvard and the University of North Carolina, Bell was upfront.

“To be really clear, the University of Alabama does not, and will not, base admissions on race,” he said. “We want the University of Alabama to be open, accessible, and I mean economically accessible, and successful, for Alabama students, whoever they are, and wherever they are in our state.”

He related it to the UA System’s decision to not raise in-state tuition this year, which has been the case for six out of the past seven years.

“We do that so students can afford a great education, and students can find themselves at the University of Alabama,” Bell said. “As an in-state student, wherever you are in our campus, you can succeed here. We’re laser focused on making sure that we provide all the opportunities – that is great scholarships, great support programs.

“We have students from the state of Alabama for whom this is their first step to living outside of a small community – we can help them with that transition. We have support programs that show them what they can expect to find. And why do we do that? We do that so that at the end of the day, they will be more successful.”

“Fundamentally, we help young people achieve their dreams and be successful.”

As the “Where Legends Are Made” campaign tells blockbuster stories of students’ experiences at the Capstone and their future beyond, Bell shared one of his own.

“I had a conversation for about 15 minutes last night with a dad and his son,” Bell said. “He was explaining to me what the son wanted to accomplish. The dad said, ‘you know, I don’t have a college degree. I didn’t go through that process. I need to know how can I help my son?’

“And it’s in that moment that you realize what your mission is. ‘We’re gonna make an application. I want you to come and visit me in my office. He wants to be an engineer – doesn’t know how to become an engineer. Here’s how you’re going to do it. Okay. We’ll probably go the STEM MBA program because you may be able to get an MBA on top of that engineering degree, which could take you anywhere in the world.’

“After you have that conversation, you go, ‘Okay. I need to have more of these.’

“Because that’s fundamentally what we do.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced Tuesday that House Republicans have “uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Biden’s conduct” and will initiate a formal impeachment inquiry into him.

The focus of that investigation will probe his family’s foreign business interactions and the prosecution of his son, Hunter Biden.

Based on the House Oversight Committee’s ongoing investigations, McCarthy claims a “culture of corruption” shrouds the Biden family and. in particular, Hunter Biden’s business ventures before his father took office.

“These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption, and they warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives,” McCarthy said.

Several members of Alabama’s delegation to the House said they’re on the same page with the Speaker.

Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) said McCarthy’s decision is about “rooting out the truth.”

“President Biden has repeatedly used public office to enrich himself and his family. We need answers and accountability for his wrongdoings, and I fully support Speaker McCarthy’s decision to move forward with an impeachment inquiry for President Biden,” Carl said.

The American people deserve elected officials who work for them and do not abuse their power. House Republicans are committed to rooting out the truth and upholding our Constitutional duty.”

President Biden has repeatedly used public office to enrich himself and his family.

We need answers and accountability for his wrongdoing, so I fully support @SpeakerMcCarthy’s decision to move forward with an impeachment inquiry for President Biden.

— Rep. Jerry Carl (@RepJerryCarl) September 12, 2023

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said, “When House Republicans took control this year, one of the promises we made was to hold President Biden and his Administration accountable. I look forward to reviewing the facts and I know my colleagues on these committees will do a thorough job.”

Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) went as far as to say Biden may be compromised.

I support Speaker McCarthy’s decision to start an impeachment inquiry against President Biden. The House Judiciary, Oversight and Ways and Means committees have already uncovered significant evidence that Biden may be compromised by millions of dollars in foreign bribes and other…

— Rep. Barry Moore (@RepBarryMoore) September 12, 2023

(1/3) House investigations uncovered serious allegations of President Biden and his family using the Washington swamp to get rich. I support the Impeachment Inquiry into President Biden because it will give the House access to records that the Biden DOJ is trying to keep sealed.

— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) September 12, 2023

“We must bring accountability and justice to the Washington swamp. That starts at the top by investigating the Biden Family’s foreign influence peddling. I also support impeachment investigations into other Biden officials like Secretary Mayorkas—who I believe is actively undermining our nation’s border security,” Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) said.

“If the DOJ won’t investigate these wrongdoings, House Republicans will. It’s time to hold Joe Biden, his family, and his hand-picked defenders accountable for these abuses of power.”

The Democratic consensus from Alabama’s delegation is that the inquiry is “baseless,” said Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham)

“Despite nine months of investigating, House Republicans have found no evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden,” Sewell said in a statement.

“This baseless impeachment inquiry is nothing more than political theater designed to distract from the looming government shutdown that Republicans are threatening to cause. The American people deserve better.”

The announcement of a formal inquiry comes alongside a looming government shutdown with the end of the federal fiscal year on Sept. 30.

“We will go wherever the evidence takes us,” McCarthy said Tuesday.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

With the primary special election just days away, the Business Council of Alabama announced ProgressPAC, its political affiliate, will endorse Travis Hendrix for Alabama House of Representatives District 55.

“ProgressPAC is proud to endorse pro-growth, solution-oriented leaders that will continue to move Alabama forward,” said ProgressPAC Chairman Mark Drew. “We are dedicated to creating a business climate that helps foster strong communities and continues to grow jobs in every corner of Alabama.

“ProgressPAC is proud to support candidates who are committed to protecting and supporting employers that create and sustain quality jobs for all Alabamians.”

A native of the Ensley community in Birmingham, Hendrix is a sergeant with the Birmingham Police Department and has served as a school resource officer.

“Throughout my life, I have consistently pushed beyond established standards and exceeded expectations. I firmly believe that District 55 deserves a leader who possesses both the capabilities and the unwavering determination to advocate for change,” Hendrix says on his campaign website.

The special primary election is Sept. 26, and the special primary runoff, if necessary, will be Oct. 24. The special general election is Jan. 9, 2024.

A special election to fill the vacancy left by former Rep. David Cole in House District 10 was set Monday.

Cole was arrested and resigned over charges related to voter fraud last month, following a long fight to hold onto his seat, despite not living in the district.

House District 10 represents South and West Huntsville, Madison, Triana and Redstone Arsenal.

Gov. Kay Ivey set the special primary election for Dec. 12; the special primary runoff, if necessary, for Jan. 9, 2024; and the special general election for March 26, 2024.

“The people in House District 10 deserve to be fully represented in the legislative process, and by calling this special election, we will ensure that to be the case. Those in public office must be held accountable and to the highest standard,” Ivey said.

“I encourage everyone in this district to get out and vote during this special election to ensure you have a strong voice advocating for you in the Alabama Legislature.”

The deadline for qualifying with major political parties is 5 p.m. Oct. 10. The deadline for independent candidates and/or minor parties is 5 p.m. Dec. 12.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives, according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.

For Alabama, that projection sits at approximately 4,500 women this year alone.

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt announced she’s working to make detection and diagnosis more accessible, more affordable, and ultimately, less stressful for women.

She recently joined U.S. Sen Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in reintroducing the Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Act to eliminate copays and other out-of-pocket expenses for breast cancer diagnostic tests.

“The ability for women to receive an initial mammogram as part of their health insurance plan is a crucial, potentially lifesaving tool to detect breast cancer. This commonsense legislation would ensure that a warranted follow-up diagnostic examination is also covered by health insurers at no out-of-pocket cost to the patient,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“No woman across America should be faced with the impossible choice between affording basic necessities such as food or being able to confirm whether she has a life-threatening illness.”

While current legislation mandates no-copay coverage for breast cancer screenings, diagnostic tests – crucial for a definitive diagnosis post initial screenings – aren’t afforded the same privilege.

If the initial screening shows that a patient may have breast cancer, further testing, including mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds, may be needed to make a diagnosis.

An estimated 10% of screening mammograms require follow-up diagnostic testing.

The Susan G. Komen Foundation, a leading research and patient advocacy organization for the causes and treatment of breast cancer, understands the problem, and commended the group of Senators for doing something about it.

“It is too hard and too expensive for people to get the breast imaging they require, a contributing factor to the nearly 44,000 breast cancer deaths expected this year alone,” Molly Guthrie, vice president of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen, said.

“We need this legislation passed as soon as possible so that people don’t face barriers to a timely diagnosis or face the impact of high out-of-pocket expenses for necessary imaging due to their personal circumstances,” she said. “Thank you to Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Katie Britt and Representatives Debbie Dingell and Brian Fitzpatrick for their leadership on this vital legislation.”

Susan G. Komen estimates that in 2023, more than 297,000 ew cases of invasive breast cancer will be detected in women across the United States. Additionally, a Susan G. Komen study estimated that diagnostic tests can cost patients between $234 and $1,041.

“I’m proud to help lead this effort to provide greater access to mammography so women can be diagnosed as soon as possible, giving them the widest variety of treatment options and the best chance to defeat this disease,” said Britt.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

After a Saturday night win in Bryant-Denny Stadium, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian gave credit to his former mentor and boss, Nick Saban.

While Saban and Sarkisian’s teams battled it out tonight, amounting to a 34-24 victory for Texas, Saban gave him a shot when no one other programs would.

He hired Sarkisian as an analyst in 2016 after alcoholism led to his firing at USC before ultimately rehiring him as offensive coordinator in the 2019 and 2020 season.

Alabama falls to Texas 34-24 🏈 Coach Sark takes the podium after beating his old boss

“I would not be standing here in front of you guys if it wasn’t for Nick Saban. The University of Alabama and Nick Saban changed my life.” pic.twitter.com/u94yH4OeTY

— Olivia Whitmire (@omwhitmireTV) September 10, 2023

“I would not be standing here in front of you guys if it wasn’t for Nick Saban,” Sarkisian told reporters on Saturday night. “The University of Alabama and Nick Saban changed my life.”

In 2020, coaching at UA, Sarkisian was discovered to have a life-threatening congenital heart disorder during a physical exam Saban encourages his staff to undergo annually.

Sarkisian was quickly sent into emergency surgery — which proved successful, despite the severity of his condition.

How it started vs. how it's going 👀

Sarkisian becomes Saban's first former assistant to defeat Saban in Tuscaloosa. pic.twitter.com/eS4OXGDTU8

— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) September 10, 2023

“I think Sark is one of the best coaches we’ve ever been around when it comes to offense,” Saban said ahead of Saturday’s game against Texas.

“Sark did a great job here for us. He’s doing a great job in Texas and it’s gonna be a very challenging game. They recruit well, they coach well. They’ve got good players and they’re well-coached.”

“I like giving people second chances,” Saban said. “I think that their willingness to do the right things and whatever their mistakes were, they’re trying to fix it and look for an opportunity.”

“He represented the program well, he’s first class in every way, so I was glad I gave him a second chance.”

The Longhorns became the first visiting team since LSU in 2019 to claim victory on Alabama’s home turf, at that time leading to the Tigers winning the College Football Playoff.

Reflecting on the reception he got from Alabama fans upon returning to Tuscaloosa on Saturday, Sarkisian jokingly told reporters he was surprised.

“We had so many great memories. Why are they booing me?” he asked with a grin.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

With a Category 5 hurricane imminent and an already active 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, AccuWeather has revised its predictions – now anticipating a higher number of major hurricanes than previously forecasted.

In recognition of September’s “National Preparedness Month” across the nation, Gov. Kay Ivey is reminding Alabamians to plan ahead.

“Alabama is no stranger to the unpredictable and sometimes harmful effects of Mother Nature,” Ivey said. “While we cannot stop a hurricane, tornado or flash flood, we can take steps to lessen their impact on our lives and better protect ourselves and our loved ones.”

The Alabama Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommend every home have a basic emergency Go-Kit including the following:

Water and non-perishable food to last for several days
Cell phone with weather/news apps as well as extra cell phone battery or charger
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio capable of receiving NOAA Weather Radio alerts as well as local news broadcasts
Flashlight with extra batteries
A first aid kit
Prescription medications and glasses
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

Equally important, Alabamians should develop and coordinate contingency plans with family and close-by friends if there is a need to evacuate and seek shelter.

“With the leadership and support of Governor Ivey, Alabama held its first inaugural Resilience Council meeting last week,” said Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman. “The council is a platform for local, state, federal, and private partners to discuss ways to better prepare Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful impacts to its citizens.”

Ivey said, “While any time before a disaster is a good time to make plans, I recommend all Alabamians prepare for emergencies now to reduce the harm they and their families could face down the road.

“Plan to be ready.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

As the nation grapples with rising healthcare costs, Alabama employers and providers are on the front line.

This is felt particularly amid a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape marked by groundbreaking, yet costly, treatments.

Drawing from a recent annual survey by the Business Group on Health, Axios reported employers are seeking strategies to curb rising costs without shifting the burden to their employees.

“The survey of 152 companies found employers expect their health costs to rise 6% next year after accounting for measures they use to keep costs in check,” Axios says.

“The vast majority of employers (96%) said they will continue to use prior authorization in their pharmacy plans, step therapy (94%) — in which patients must try cheaper medications before receiving costlier ones — and use of lower-cost care settings for physician-administered drugs like biologics.”

Robin Stone, executive director for the Alliance of Alabama Healthcare Consumers, said, “Alabama businesses, large and small, are investing in their workforce by providing access to high quality healthcare for their employees and their families.”

The Alliance represents a group of Alabama employers standing up for high-quality, low-cost healthcare in the state. Stone, who previously served as CEO of the Business Council of Alabama, is at the helm.

A 2022 report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human services showed Alabama has the fourth-lowest average annual single premium and family premium nationwide.

“However, the rising cost of healthcare, particularly pharmaceutical drugs, continues to be a serious financial challenge for employers who want to continue providing high quality employee benefits,” Stone said.

Ellen Kelsay, Business Group on Health CEO, shares that concern, telling Axios, “As they have done in recent years, the companies in many cases are swallowing the bulk of increases instead of passing them on to employees.”

“How long they’re able to do that based on … conversations about the overall trend growing at an alarming rate is to be seen,” she said.

The annual survey strongly suggests the pipeline of groundbreaking treatments promises transformative health outcomes but at unprecedented costs.

“A balance must be sustained between the rising utilization of new, expensive drugs and other emerging treatments, and the cost of that care, if benefits are to be kept affordable and sustainable in the long term for employers and their workforce,” Stone said.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

This week, an elementary school in Montgomery County, Md., reimposed a mask mandate for students. Some hospitals in New York and California have also brought back mandatory masks for all visitors.

Senate and congressional Republicans came together on legislation to ensure that doesn’t become a trend nationwide.

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt was vocal about her support for The Freedom to Breathe Act.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, draconian shutdowns and mask mandates inflicted immense damage across our nation,” said Britt (R-Montgomery). Just look at the consequences our children faced, from devastating learning loss that put students years behind to deteriorating mental health in kids and teenagers.”

The bill’s author, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) moved for unanimous consent Thursday, citing a “bipartisan” opportunity.

“Democrats say they’re not going to bring back mask mandates – we’re going to hold them to their word,” Vance said.

As written, the law would prohibit any federal official, including the president, from issuing mask mandates applying to schools, commercial airlines and public transportation.

It would also stop those institutions from refusing service to individuals who choose not to wear a mask.

In a few minutes, I’ll join Senator @JDVance1 on the Senate floor as he moves to pass a bill to ban federal mask mandates.

I’m proud to cosponsor this commonsense legislation — and if Democrats don’t plan on bringing lockdowns and mandates back, it should pass unanimously. https://t.co/LmjqApzGNX

— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) September 7, 2023

“Enough is enough,” Britt said.

“More than three years later, it’s clear we need to embrace individual liberty and facts rather than a society gripped by fear. Democrats have claimed that mask mandates and lockdowns are not coming back – however, their objection to this legislation reveals their true intentions.”

The Senate took up the legislation under unanimous consent but was blocked by Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.)

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Former U.S. Sen. and 2016 presidential candidate Hillary Clinton chimed in on litigation moving through federal courts involving an abortion fund, the Americans for Civil Liberties Union, and Alabama law.

Clinton made the comment on Twitter in response to a lawsuit filed by a pro-abortion rights group, questioning the legality of Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s position that the state can investigate and prosecute those assisting in traveling out-of-state for abortions.

Marshall recently filed a motion to dismiss that lawsuit, saying, “Though abortion may be legal elsewhere, it is plainly illegal pursuant to [Alabama law] for Plaintiffs to conspire with others to procure abortions that would be illegal in Alabama.”

Clinton called that move “horrific.”

I'm not seeing enough people talking about this horrific move by Republican officials in Alabama to restrict women's freedom of movement. You've got to be kidding me.https://t.co/suYauIYw1m

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 6, 2023

The broader litigation involving Marshall and advocacy groups follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, which decentralized abortion regulations, permitting states like Alabama to enact their own.

Alabama responded with the Human Life Protection Act — designating the act of performing or attempting to perform abortions a felony except when the life of the mother is in danger.

However, the lawsuit claims Marshall violated free speech rights by suggesting people could face conspiracy charges for aiding women in obtaining abortions in other states.

In Marshall’s motion to dismiss, he stated, “the legality of abortion in other States is irrelevant to whether Alabama can prosecute a conspiracy formed in Alabama.”

“As a matter of law, Alabama’s abortion ban reaches only as far as its borders,” Marshall wrote.

On Wednesday afternoon, Attorney General Marshall fired back at Clinton, asking, “Horrific?”

Horrific? Your position is that abortion should be permitted up until the time of a baby’s birth. I’m not seeing enough people talk about that. https://t.co/1DPEi87Z4N

— Attorney General Steve Marshall (@AGSteveMarshall) September 6, 2023

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

In a long-form post Tuesday from The Daily Beast, the intracoastal bridge project in Baldwin County took center stage alongside key Alabama political players grappling over the state’s infrastructure priorities.

While particularly scrupulous of Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) Chief John Cooper’s part, the report offered a look into the current state of play around a situation that isn’t expected to be resolved anytime soon.

Last month, we reported the Alabama Supreme Court authorized construction to continue on the bridge after a Montgomery Circuit Judge imposed a halt on the project in May.

“In 2020, Alabama’s Department of Transportation appropriated $1.6 billion—a mix of state, federal, and local funds—so the cost of the bridge would hardly be a drop in the bucket for Alabama, even when legal and construction issues inevitably drive up the cost,” writes Sam Brodey, Daily Beast deputy politics editor. “If the director of the Alabama Department of Transportation, John Cooper, has his way, there will one day be a monument to that black hole: a $120 million bridge across the Intracoastal Waterway that everyone from local activists to a federal judge has dubbed a ‘boondoggle’ to ‘nowhere.’

“Even by his standards, Cooper’s stubborn push to build an expensive new bridge to the Gulf Coast has confounded his sympathizers and created a legion of enemies who are determined to kill the project or pressure Ivey to give him the boot—whichever comes first.”

On top of high costs, the bridge’s design and location have been criticized for lacking the potential to improve or alleviate existing traffic concerns.

The article offered a spotlight to officials who have been sounding the alarm on mismanaged infrastructure priorities.

“The state’s lieutenant governor, Will Ainsworth, has gone a step further: On Aug. 12, he said if he were in charge, Cooper would be ‘fired on day one.’ He cited a number of disappointments, including his handling of the Intracoastal Waterway bridge,” Daily Beast reported.

“For opponents of the project, it’s hard to decide what aspect of the years-long process most infuriates them.”

The news outlet also interviewed State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine).

“My frustration as a local who represents these folks is we don’t have a solution still,” Elliott said. “There doesn’t seem to be a solution on the horizon.”

The Daily Beast seemed baffled by the state’s response to their questions.

“ALDOT spokesman Tony Harris accused the toll company of charging drivers ‘tens of millions of dollars while not eliminating traffic jams’ and called the price hike ‘consistent with that practice.’ Citing a public hearing from five years ago, a recent online poll from a local paper, and ‘recent news coverage,’ Harris contended ‘there is overwhelming support for ALDOT’s project.’”

“He did not respond to a question about the last time Cooper spoke with Ivey about the project. And Ivey’s office did not respond to a request for comment,” Daily Beast reported.

The central mystery of their story revolved around Cooper, who is said to have brought his career-long reputation to bear on the Baldwin County bridge.

“Across Alabama, Cooper has long been notorious for his muscular wielding of power and his legendary holding of grudges. A popular quip — ‘it’s Mr. Cooper’s way or no highway’ — is usually delivered by insiders with a laugh, groan, or both,” Daily Beast wrote.

Exacerbated by personal legal and criminal troubles, Cooper’s no-nonsense attitude, viewed in the past as a strength, according to former colleagues, is now a political and operational weakness.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Sept. 1 was a good day for most shoppers in Alabama once the 1% sales tax reduction on groceries went into effect.

That is, unless you happened to have that tax mistakenly doubled at some Walmart and Sam’s Clubs stores. The company said some shoppers in Alabama were overcharged in the company system after it updated to the new tax rate.

However, Walmart said they caught the issue Friday and it was corrected the same day.

“Now, we are taking an additional step and providing Walmart customers who shopped with us in our Alabama stores on Friday, September 1, 2023 with a $5 Walmart Gift Card,” the company said.

“To be eligible, customers will need to bring their receipt, dated September 1, 2023, showing the overcharged sales tax to the customer service desk at any Alabama Walmart store. Gift cards will be available through Monday, September 18, 2023.”

According to a news release, Sam’s Club members impacted by the overcharged sales tax will receive $5 in Sam’s Cash automatically applied to their account.

As of last Friday, Alabama has joined 47 other states that do not fully tax groceries. Last year, food prices increased 13.5% – the largest 12-month percentage increase since 1979.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth has launched the application process for a $179 million grant initiative targeting public schools across Alabama.

The Alabama K-12 Capital Grant Program, authorized by the Alabama Legislature this year, will offer funding across various projects from tech upgrades to security enhancements.

“This grant program offers a unique and historic opportunity to address longstanding needs within our local schools across the state,” Ainsworth said. “Our goal is to ensure that the funding is used to improve the educational experience for students, teachers, and parents alike.”

Applications for funding must be submitted by the superintendents of requesting systems. Supporting documents, such as budgets, plans of action, photos, contracts, financial records, and others, will be required.

According to Ainsworth’s office, in most cases, systems will be required to provide matching funds, the amount of which is calculated based on a sliding scale formula specific to the school potentially receiving a grant.

That formula considers variables that include the population of the school, the local funds available, and the number of students receiving free or reduced lunches.

All applications will be submitted through an online portal, the web address of which was provided to superintendents via email.

Grant requests may be submitted at any point during the next 45 days; the deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Oct. 20.

Approved projects will be announced by the end of the calendar year.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees elected Scott Phelps as president pro tempore. Phelps of Tuscaloosa was elected during the board’s annual meeting Friday.

Phelps has represented Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District on the board since 2015. H hase served as chair of the Finance and Legal Affairs committees.

“We on the Board are very fortunate that Scott Phelps is available and willing to serve our state in this critical capacity,” said Trustee and outgoing President pro tem Stan Starnes, who served three years. “He is a person of uncommon intellect and unparalleled devotion to the University of Alabama System.

“He will serve us with distinction.”

Phelps began his career in Birmingham as an attorney at Bradley Arant Rose & White. He returned to his hometown of Tuscaloosa in 1995, joining Greene Group Inc., where he is vice president and secretary.

In 2005, he played an instrumental role in establishing Bryant Bank and has been a board member since its inception.

Phelps holds a bachelor’s degree from Birmingham-Southern College and a J.D. degree from the University of Alabama School of Law.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

In a 217-page order handed down Tuesday, a federal three-judge panel ruled the remedial congressional map drawn in a special session by the Alabama Legislature invalid, citing a previous mandate to create a second majority-Black district.

The judges assigned court-appointed officials, including a special master and cartographer, to create a map compliant with court guidance by Sept. 25. These districts will go into play during the 2024 election.

In a June 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court found the 2021 Alabama congressional map violated the Voting Rights Act.

Under the map authorized by the Legislature, the “Livingston Plan” – invalidated by the three-judge panel today – Alabama’s Seventh Congressional District, represented by U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, would have been composed of a majority-Black population at 50.65%. Rep. Barry Moore’s Second Congressional District would have shifted to 39.99%

Federal judges ruled today that proposal doesn’t meet their standard.

Sewell (D-Birmingham) claimed the ruling as a victory.

“Today’s decision is yet another victory for Black voters in Alabama and for the promise of fair representation,” she said in a statement. “By appointing a special master to fairly redraw Alabama’s congressional map, the court has rejected the state Legislature’s latest attempt to dilute the voices and voting power of African Americans all across our state.”

She said she was outraged by the Legislature’s “open defiance” of initial guidance.

“The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is indeed alive and enforceable,” Sewell said in the statement.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has yet to issue a statement on the ruling, but his appeal on behalf of the state is expected.

Secretary of State Wes Allen has said finalizing a redistricting plan by Oct. 1 “would provide enough time to reassign voters, print and distribute ballots, and otherwise conduct the forthcoming 2024 primary elections based on the new map.”

In an interview on “The Jeff Poor Show,” Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter said he wasn’t surprised by today’s ruling.

“It’s a little confusing, because they don’t want us to gerrymander those districts, but then they ask us to gerrymander those districts – I mean that’s the only way you can get to those numbers is gerrymandering,” Ledbetter said. “Unfortunately, I think is being driven by people out of D.C. (Former U.S. Attorney General) Eric Holder and (former President Barack) Obama had started the PAC to try to redraw some of these lines, probably not only in congressional seats, but also State House seats.

“So, it’s a way for the Democrats to try to take over the House without a vote being cast.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Gov. Kay Ivey released a letter to the director of the Alabama Public Library Service, containing questions and strong concerns over the material being exposed to students across the state in public libraries.

Her letter follows heightened concern from parents and lawmakers over inappropriate reading content available to young children – including graphic, sexual themes, guidance for gender transition and age-inappropriate ideas about identity.

So far, groups in Prattville, Madison County, North Shelby County, Dale County and Foley have all made a push to scrub these materials from the childrens’ section of their local libraries.

“Especially given libraries’ importance to society, I have grown increasingly concerned due to recent reports calling into question whether our own libraries here in Alabama are most effectively fulfilling this important mission,” Ivey wrote to Dr. Nancy Pack, director of the library service.

“The heart of the issue seems to be the exposure of children and youth to inappropriate, sexually suggestive materials without adequate means of parental supervision. According to reports, the children’s section of the Foley Public Library has featured a book called ‘Who are You?: The Kid’s Guide to Gender Identity,’ which is marketed to five- to eight-year olds for ‘understanding and celebrating the gender diversity that surrounds us.’”

Ivey said the Prattville Public Library’s toddler and children’s section has reportedly featured “The Pronoun Book,” – a book for three- year olds to learn about “preferred pronouns,” and “If You re A Kid Like Gavin,” which is a self-proclaimed story about “gender transition” targeted at children between four and eight years old.

She also referenced a recent push by parents and leaders in Ozark to remove sexually explicit books from the young adult section of the Dale County Library.

“This list could go on, but the important point, as I understand it, is that each of these books has been made freely available in the very part of the library where children and youth are most likely to browse,” Ivey wrote.

“As several parents have eloquently put it, their concern is not about removing these books. The concern is about ensuring that these books are placed in an appropriate location.”

In April, former Alabama Secretary of Early Education Dr. Barbra Cooper drew ire from Ivey over “woke concepts” featured in pre-K teaching materials.

In a recent op-ed, State Rep. Susan DuBose called for Alabama libraries to disaffiliate from what she calls a “Marxist” national organization: the American Library Association (ALA).

“The ALA has long been a conduit to allow libraries across the country to bring in pornographic and age-inappropriate books, fight against internet filters that block porn access, and resist concerns from residents who want libraries to represent local community standards and protect children,” DuBose said.

Ivey laid out similar guidance in her letter to Pack.

“Rather than supporting Alabama families, out-of-state library groups like the American Library Association appear to be making the situation worse,” she wrote.

“Considering the foregoing facts, it is not surprising that Alabama parents are raising concerns about both the content on display in some Alabama libraries as well as the general approach of Alabama libraries towards parental involvement.”

Ivey issued nine questions toPack, seeking answers ahead of a Sept. 13 meeting of the library service’s executive board meeting.

The questions involved requests for information around steps being taken to provide “ parents with means to supervise their children and youth before encountering age-inappropriate materials?”

She also requested insight into the organization’s role in advising local libraries about hosting events by concerned parents in Madison and Millbrook.

“I am deeply grateful for the work Alabama libraries do, day in and day out, to engage our children and promote a lifelong love of learning—including by providing information that may be unavailable elsewhere in a community,” said Ivey, a former educator.

“At the same time, however, I respect parents who want their young children and teens to be able to freely explore a library without fear of what those children will find there.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The Alabama Forest Land Trust has protected nearly 83,000 acres of farm and forestland in 24 counties and an additional 13,000 acres while administering the Forest Legacy Program for the Alabama Forestry Commission.

Last week, the trust appointed Thomas Reddick, who brings a strong background in conservation leadership, as executive director.

Prior to joining the organization, Reddick was with The Cooper Timberlands division in Mobile and, more recently, served as director of Forest Management with the Nature Conservancy of Alabama.

“It’s an honor to lead AFLT into its next era, building upon the foundation Dan and the board established, as the leading conservation organization for private landowners in Alabama,” Reddick said.

“I’m excited to be back in Mobile and continue advancing working forest conservation while supporting the local landowners and economies that make our work possible.”

Reddick has a master’s degree from the University of Georgia’s Langdale Center for Forest Business and an undergraduate degree in forestry from Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

In 2016, he completed certification as a Registered Forester in Alabama. As executive director, Thomas will lead the organization’s growth initiatives and drive innovation, further solidifying AFLT’s position as a leader in land conservation in Alabama.

Reddick succeeds the late Dan Dumont, who executive director since AFLT’s inception. Dumont was a respected leader within the industry and has led a storied career focused on wildlife and forestland conservation. He was the driving force to establish and grow the AFLT as an accredited land trust.

The AFLT Board of Directors said in an announcement they will be indebted to Dumont for his contributions and leadership.

“AFLT was created to enhance, promote, and preserve the productivity and sustainability of Alabama’s forest resources to ensure their economic and environmental benefits for future generations,” the statement reads. “Established in 1986, AFLT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization managed by an Executive Director and governed by a state-wide representation on its Board of Directors.

“As AFLT enters this new chapter under the leadership of Thomas Reddick, it is committed to continuing its mission of forest sustainability and preservation.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The University of Alabama will roll out four new bachelor’s degree programs for the fall 2023 semester: Business cybersecurity, applied liberal arts, neuroscience, and sport management.

The new programs received approval from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, according to The Crimson White, UA’s student-run newspaper.

Business Cybersecurity

Bridging the gap between technical and non-technical business departments, the business cybersecurity major will be offered by the Culverhouse College of Business. The curriculum spans technical aspects like consumer privacy and programming languages to non-technical such as risk management.

Applied Liberal Arts

Offered by the College of Arts and Sciences’ New College department, applied liberal arts is designed for students with over 80 credit hours. The major allows them to combine two minors for degree completion, targeting those who haven’t made notable progress toward their degrees.

Neuroscience

Under the Department of Psychology, the neuroscience program adopts an interdisciplinary approach. It combines elements from biological sciences to anthropology – preparing students for neuroscience research and the MCAT.

Sport Management

Training future professionals for the athletic industry, the sport management program covers areas like security, event planning, public outreach and talent management. It’s set to include a comprehensive focus on real-world experience and relationship building with an internship requirement for graduation.

The University of Alabama’s full catalogue of majors and degree programs can be found here with the latest additions.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The Tide will see Jalen Milroe step up as the starting quarterback in their season opener against Middle Tennessee this Saturday, according to ESPN.

Milroe, the redshirt sophomore, emerged as the pick in a tight preseason race over Tyler Buchner, redshirt freshmen Ty Simpson, and true freshman Dylan Lonergan.

We learned about the call one before the showdown with Middle Tennessee at Bryant Denny Stadium.

Jalen Milroe will start at QB for @AlabamaFTBL in Saturday’s opener against Middle Tennessee State, sources tell ESPN. Milroe has taken most of the first-team reps this preseason while competing with Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner and freshmen Ty Simpson and Dylan Lonergan.

— Chris Low (@ClowESPN) September 1, 2023

Milroe is set to step into the shoes of Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young, who shook out as the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft. by the Carolina Panthers.

Nick Saban did not publicly name Milroe as the starter during his Thursday show. But he did hint at having made his decision known to the quarterbacks, sources say.

Saban also expressed a desire to showcase multiple quarterbacks in the opening game against MTSU.

While the question of who will be Alabama’s quarterback in week one has been answered, Saban has been sure to communicate the conditional nature of the QB spot.

“I do think one thing, and I know everybody’s going to be interested in this whole quarterback situation, is the quarterback who plays on Saturday, that’s the quarterback for Saturday,” Saban said.

“The life of a quarterback, any quarterback, depends on how they perform.”

“If a guy plays well, that’s what creates security at that position, and if you don’t play well, because the first thing everybody does when you have success, the quarterback gets a lot of credit. But also, when things don’t go well, the first guy they point at is the quarterback. So a guy’s got to understand that the way he performs is really, really important.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

This week, U.S. Senator Katie Britt celebrated $34 million in funding by the National Institute of Standards and Technology for a new Math and Science Building at Marion Military Institute (MMI)’s Perry County campus.

MMI has prepared young men and women from across the country for successful civilian and military careers since 1842.

It’s part of the Alabama Community College System and one of only four military junior colleges in the country.

Sen. Britt’s office says the new classroom space will enable MMI to expand its course offerings in fields such as computer science, cybersecurity, and information technology. In addition, this investment will centralize all of MMI’s STEM classes and laboratories in a single state-of-the-art facility.

“Every Alabamian deserves the opportunity to live their American Dream, regardless of their zip code,” Sen. Britt said.

“Turning this dream into a reality starts with ensuring that each young person across our great state has access to a high-quality education. This targeted, strategic federal investment will not only provide a new facility for Marion Military Institute but will also allow the school to offer more courses to its students and better prepare them for the demands of a military or civilian career as they live out the institution’s mission of service.”

An update from the office of @SenKatieBritt on $34M in federal funding to build MMI's new STEM center. The new classroom space will enable MMI to expand its course offerings in fields such as computer science, cybersecurity & IT. https://t.co/PlQegq0nq5 @ACCS_Education

— Marion Military Inst (@MarionMilitary) August 30, 2023

MMI President Colonel David J. Mollahan, USMC (Ret) said, “We are excited at the prospect of this new building

“It will provide us the classroom and lab space and capabilities to expand course offerings in STEM. This will allow MMI to serve as both a leadership and STEM center of excellence.”

Earlier this year, Senator Britt met with Colonel Mollahan and MMI leaders and received an update on the campus and MMI’s goals for the future.

MMI is also home to one of the nation’s top Service Academy Programs, with more than 600 MMI cadets receiving Academy appointments in the last seven years. The school counts more than 216 generals and admirals among its alumni.

It has an annual statewide economic impact of $25 million and supports 394 direct and indirect jobs. Tracing its roots back to 1842, MMI is also the nation’s oldest military junior college.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The Alabama Supreme Court this month delivered the highest award in punitive damages to a plaintiff in state history: $10 million for wrongful death.

A 54% increase from the previous $6.5 million high watermark awarded in a 2021 case signals a progressive escalation in punitive damage awards affirmed by the state Supreme Court.

While all justices agreed as to the liability of Springhill, only three justices expressed their exception to the punitive payout. The majority opinion, written by Justice Brad Mendheim, upheld and affirmed the trial court’s judgment and $10 million verdict.

Chief Justice Tom Parker and Associate Justices Greg Shaw, Kelli Wise, Sarah Stewart, Tommy Bryan concurred; Associate Justices Will Sellers, Jay Mitchell and Greg Cook dissented specifically to damages.

In his dissent, Cook had strong reservations about the magnitude of the punitive damages.

“The facts are tragic and the evidence is overwhelming,” he wrote. “However, I respectfully dissent as to the affirmance of the award of punitive damages in the amount of $10 million.”

Cook warned it only took the court two years to nearly double the award for damages set in Bednarski vs. Johnson, which marked a 60% increase over the previous record.

“In other words, in less than two years, we will have moved the highest medical malpractice award ever upheld by this Court from $4 million to $10 million — an increase of a total of 150%,” Cook wrote.

In decades past, the Alabama was dubbed “tort hell” during an era of litigation and tort liability recognized as hostile to business and industry, particularly in comparison to other states.

Records show in 2022, the trial lawyer political action committee, Progress for Justice, donated $564,500 to Debra Jones, an Alabama circuit judge in Anniston.

Jones was ultimately defeated by Cook, then a Birmingham attorney. Cook raised more than $350,000 from two business PACs – $175,000 from the Alabama Realtors Political Action Committee and $175,000 from the BCA’s Progress PAC.

In 2018, AAFJ donated $560,000 to Parker, who defeated then-Chief Justice Lyn Stuart.

Mendheim, who wrote the majority opinion Springhill vs. West, was defeated in 2018 by Mobile Circuit Judge Sarah Stewart, but received an appointment to the Supreme Court by Gov. Kay Ivey after Parker was elevated to chief justice after defeating Stuart.

Mendheim has received donations from mainly business groups, including more than $70,000 from Progress PAC in 2018.

The verdict in Springhill vs. West is emblematic of a broader trend in Alabama’s judicial system. The exponential rise in damages is alarming to some.

Cook, Mitchell and Sellers’ dissent articulated the apprehension that Alabama may once again be seen as a litigation-heavy state to the detriment of its overall business climate.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is preparing to leverage the full force of his office against abortion.

On Wednesday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced his state isn’t interested in cooperating with states seeking to prosecute women or doctors for seeking and performing abortions.

Marshall took his reaction to Newsome directly.

“We aren’t asking for your permission,” Marshall said on Twitter. “Alabama will not permit abortionists to defy our laws and enrich themselves by marketing hopelessness to women.”

We aren’t asking for your permission, @GavinNewsom. Alabama will not permit abortionists to defy our laws and enrich themselves by marketing hopelessness to women. https://t.co/sxUmL8JFmd

— Attorney General Steve Marshall (@AGSteveMarshall) August 31, 2023

The reply Marshall fired off comes after he requested a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit targeting him. The lawsuit was initiated by a group known for assisting Alabama residents in obtaining abortions.

In a court filing Monday, Marshall’s office wrote that providing transportation for women in Alabama to leave the state to get an abortion could amount to a “criminal conspiracy.”

VIDEO: Steve Marshall attracting national attention for saying he will enforce Alabama law

Marshall made the case Alabama can pursue charges because it has outlawed abortion.

“Though abortion may be legal elsewhere, it is plainly illegal pursuant to [the Code of Alabama] Plaintiffs to conspire with others to procure abortions that would be illegal in Alabama,” the motion reads.

“The criminal conduct is the agreement itself, which is conduct that occurs in Alabama that Alabama has every right to prosecute. Thus, the legality of abortion in other States is irrelevant to whether Alabama can prosecute a conspiracy formed in Alabama.”

As of this morning, Newsom has yet to respond.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270