Gov. Kay Ivey signs bill package to make Alabama ‘most pro-military state’ in nation

(Fort Rucker/Flickr, YHN)

Tuesday, Gov. Kay Ivey signed six bills crafted to bolster Alabama’s positioning as the nation’s most attractive state for military families.

Upon signing the legislative package into law, Ivey declared the Yellowhammer State to be the “most pro-military state” in the union.

“Alabama is the most pro-military state in the nation, and I am proud to put my signature on a series of legislation aimed at ensuring that we are even more military-friendly,” advised Ivey. “I commend the work by the Military Stability Commission, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Ainsworth, as well as the members of the Alabama Legislature for passing these important bills.”

The bills address a number of areas designed to enhance military families’ quality of life and prepare Alabama to further contribute to national security.

Senate Bill 116 enables active military members relocating to Alabama to remotely enroll their children in the state’s public schools without being physically present.

Senate Bills 99, 167 and 141 pave the way for increased flexibility for military spouses to obtain occupational licensing.

Senate Bill 28 would create the Space National Guard within the Alabama National Guard if Congress establishes the Space National Guard.

Senate Bill 119 expands scholarships provided under the Alabama G.I. and Dependents’ Educational Benefit Act to include in-state and private two-and four-year colleges.

The bills were developed after being recommended by the Alabama Military Stability Commission, which is chaired by Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth.

Ainsworth commended the efforts of the commission and state leadership in crafting and passing the military-friendly bills.

“The men and women from across Alabama who serve on the Military Stability Commission understand the important role that our bases and other infrastructure play in keeping the state’s economy strong and jobs growing,” proclaimed Ainsworth. “The bills that the Legislature passed and Governor Ivey signed into law will assist our mission of making Alabama the nation’s friendliest and most welcoming state for active service members, military veterans and their families.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

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