Bud McLaughlin, Author at Yellowhammer News

While House Republicans – including North Alabama’s Reps. Dale Strong and Robert Aderholt – voted lockstep to approve President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill,” a leading GOP senator fired back against the bill’s cuts to the U.S. space program.

A “legislative directive” by Sen. Ted Cruz, whose state is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Flight Center, would add nearly $10 billion to a budget reconciliation bill, which would restore funding for Artemis IV and V, International Space Station, and provides direct funding for the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville and other centers.

Cruz is chair of the Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee and the proposal he introduced Thursday would provide a huge boost for North Alabama and allow the United States to maintain its leading role in space.

In a joint statement, the committee said the proposal “dedicates almost $10 billion to win the new space race with China and ensure America dominates space. Makes targeted, critical investments in Mars-forward technology, Artemis missions and Moon to Mars program, and the International Space Station.”

It is not a Senate version of the House-passed budget. Cruz’s legislative directives are supplemental appropriations for NASA and other federal agencies under his committee. The Senate has just started working on its version of the budget.

The White House’s budget plan passed the House by a razor-thin 215-214 margin May 22.

“This is not just legislation, it’s a promise kept to the American people. It’s pro-worker, pro-family, pro-growth — and it’s exactly what our country needs right now,” said Strong (R-Huntsville) after he voted last month to pass the House version. “I’m proud to support President Trump’s promise to deliver historic tax relief and put money back in the pockets of American families, secure our southern border, strengthen our national security, and right-size wasteful government spending.”

Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said he voted yes “because hardworking families deserve tax relief, a secure border, and a government that lives within its means. This bill delivers real results while continuing to support our most vulnerable.”

The Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce issued a statement in support of the directive, citing the city’s pride in “our decades of history leading space exploration.”

“NASA’s Artemis program, which includes the SLS rocket and Orion Space Capsule, is the only existing vehicle capable of taking the U.S. and our allies to the moon before 2030,” the statement said. “It is the only vehicle capable of crewed lunar missions for the foreseeable future. Unless the U.S. is willing to concede the moon to the Chinese, it is imperative that we continue to fund and support this program until such time as an alternative exists.”

Cruz’s proposal would provide $9.995 billion for fiscal year 2025 as supplemental funds for critical Mars-forward infrastructure, broader Moon-to-Mars program, and NASA’s Artemis missions.

Aerospace Industries Association President and CEO Eric Fanning applauded the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for their inclusion of critical additional funding for NASA in the Senate version of the reconciliation package.

“AIA applauds the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for including supplemental funding for NASA into legislation for the reconciliation process, providing continuity for several critical NASA projects, including our mission to get back to the moon and for the International Space Station,” he said in a news release.

“As industry continues to push into new frontiers and outpace our competitors in space, this effort shows Congress is dedicated to moving forward with mission-critical programs and maintaining our space leadership.

“We thank the committee for their continued support of the American space industry.”

The Marshall Space Flight Center is where the Space Launch System, the workhorse of the Artemis return-to-the-moon program, is designed. Restoring Artemis IV and V mean that Marshall would continue to develop the Block I-B engine, which has the advanced upper stage required for lunar development.

Marshall also hosts the ISS payload Operations Center.

Project appropriations under the proposal:

Mars Telecommunications Orbiter – $700 million for the commercial procurement of a Mars Telecommunications Orbiter.
This orbiter is dual-use for a Mars Sample Return mission, to return core samples of Mars to Earth, and future manned Mars missions.
Gateway – $2.6 billion to fully fund the lunar space station known as Gateway, which is critical for establishing a sustained human presence at the moon, as required by statute. Trump’s 2026 budget proposal cancels Gateway.
Space Launch System – $4.1 billion to fund two Space Launch System (SLS) rockets for the Artemis IV and V missions.
The SLS is the only human-rated rocket available that can get humans to the moon. Importantly, this funding would not preclude integrating new, commercial options if and when they become available. Trump’s proposed 2026 budget cancels the SLS after the Artemis 3 moon-landing mission, which is slated to launch in 2027.
Orion Crew Vehicle – $20 million to fund the continued procurement of the fourth Orion multi-purpose crew vehicle for use with SLS for Artemis IV and reuse with subsequent Artemis Missions.
Orion is the vehicle which will take astronauts to Gateway and return them safely to Earth. Trump’s proposed 2026 budget cancels the Orion after the Artemis 3 mission.
International Space Station – $1.25 billion for the space station operations over five years.
This would provide necessary funding for space operations to, from, and on the ISS to ensure an orderly transition from ISS to commercial platforms after 2030 and ensure there is no gap in American leadership in low-Earth orbit.
NASA Center Improvements – $1 billion for infrastructure improvements at manned space flight centers. Between deferred maintenance and delayed construction of new facilities, NASA’s infrastructure backlog across all centers is above $5 billion. The funds would focus only on the manned space flight centers and on the infrastructure needed to beat China to Mars and the moon.

Specifically:

Marshall Space Flight Center – $100 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades. Marshall is NASA’s home for propulsion.
Stennis Space Center – $120 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades. Stennis is the home of NASA’s rocket engine testing for the heavy-lift rocket engines necessary to get to deep space.
Kennedy Space Center – $250 million for infrastructure repairs. The Kennedy Space Center is NASA’s premier launch complex and from which every American astronaut has been sent to space.
Johnson Space Center – $300 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades. JSC is home to mission control, the astronaut corps, and overall space operations.
Michoud Assembly Facility – $30 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades.
U.S. Deorbit Vehicle – $325 million to fund the U.S. Deorbit Vehicle to safely deorbit the ISS. This vehicle is necessary to safely deorbit the ISS once it has reached the end of its useful life, and without which the odds of re-entry over a population center are roughly 1 in 10.

The directive would also require that not less than 50% of the funds shall be obligated not later than Sept. 30, 2028, 100% of the funds shall be obligated not later than Sept. 30, 2029, and all associated outlays shall occur not later than Sept. 30, 2034.

The CBO preliminarily estimates $9.96 billion will be obligated and expended within the 10-year window.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Huntsville’s momentum is undeniable.

And, as Huntsville continues to attract cutting-edge businesses, world-class talent, and federal attention, a strong and reliable digital infrastructure is more critical than ever.

Fast, dependable connectivity empowers local businesses to grow and scale, supports technological advancements and innovation, and helps attract and retain more world-class companies and jobs in Alabama, according to Uniti Fiber area sales manager Philip Durant.

Recognized for rockets and research, the city attracts top-tier businesses across a variety of sectors, from biotech to manufacturing, each raising the bar for what comes next.

During this pivotal period, digital infrastructure must keep pace with the increasing demands of a rapidly growing region.

Since 2024, Uniti Fiber said it has invested more than $9 million in Huntsville-area fiber infrastructure, with a total of $16.7 million committed through 2026.

“We’ve laid nearly 500 miles of owned fiber network – more than 430 miles underground and over 65 aerial – stretching across key communities like Huntsville, Athens, Florence, Decatur, and Madison,” said Durant. “In total, we’ve deployed more than 134,000 fiber strand miles, and we aren’t done yet.

“The investment has been made, the fiber has been laid, and the value is beneath your feet.”

A reliable, high-quality fiber connection isn’t just a benefit for North Alabama’s highest profile businesses – it strengthens the entire state economy. Fast, dependable connectivity empowers local businesses to grow and scale, supports technological advancements and innovation, and helps attract and retain more world-class companies and jobs to continue growing Alabama’s impressive roster.

Whether for a tech startup, manufacturing facility, hospital system, or government agency, infrastructure that performs at the level of an enterprise’s ambition is vital, according to Durant.

“What sets Uniti Fiber apart isn’t just our vast network, it’s our approach,” Durant said. “While large incumbent providers focus on volume, our mission is a steadfast partnership.

“We’re solution providers, not just service providers. We deliver a full suite of high-performance connectivity products priced fairly, backed with customer support that feels like it’s coming from a trusted neighbor. Because it is.

“Huntsville’s growth is not slowing down, and neither is our network.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

Huntsville sweet home.

Not only did Titomic open a facility in Huntsville, but the company also decided to make the Rocket City its global headquarters.

A manufacturer of advanced metal additive manufacturing systems, Titomic cited the proximity to its U.S. customers in the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors.

“Our customers include aerospace and defense suppliers such as Boeing and Airbus,” said CEO Jim Simpson. “Establishing a facility in the United States improves our ability to work directly with customers and support their industrial and operational requirements.”

“Selecting Huntsville reflects the region’s strategic importance to the U.S. manufacturing and defense sectors.”

Titomic’s patented cold spray technology, Titomic Kinetic Fusion, uses high-pressure gas to accelerate metal powders to supersonic speeds, bonding them without melting, the company said. This solid-state process enables the manufacture and restoration of structural components using materials that are often difficult or inefficient to work with using conventional methods.

Because it does not rely on heat, it avoids thermal distortion and enables bonding between dissimilar metals.

The Huntsville facility is equipped to produce or repair metal parts up to 10 feet in length at deposition rates exceeding 13 pounds per hour, the company said. It is intended to support U.S. efforts to secure sovereign manufacturing capability, reduce reliance on imported parts, and enable production at or near the point of need. These capabilities align with current Buy America programs and broader efforts to improve supply chain resilience for critical industries.

The facility is along Alabama 20/I-565, in a former Pratt & Whitney building next to Cowin Equipment and across the highway from Redstone Harley-Davidson.

It includes production, demonstration, and R&D capabilities, and complements the company’s operations in Australia and the Netherlands.

Titomic said its patented cold spray technology, Titomic Kinetic Fusion, represents a shift from traditional subtractive methods, which rely on cutting material from billets.

By depositing metal only where required, the process supports near-net-shape part builds with significantly reduced waste. This is particularly relevant in the use of high-cost materials such as titanium, where conventional machining can generate high volumes of scrap.

The technology also enables repair and coating of worn surfaces in situations where conventional welding or heat-based techniques are unsuitable.

Courtesy of 256 Today

A former pool contractor has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after defrauding customers for more than $600,000, Attorney General Steve Marshall announced today.

Gregory Kirk of Muscle Shoals pleaded guilty in a case involving multiple property crimes, according to a statement from Marshall. Pursuant to a plea agreement with the state, Madison County Circuit Judge Ruth Ann Hall sentenced Kirk to a total term of 20 years’ imprisonment.

Kirk previously worked in Madison County as a pool contractor with Pristine Pools and was accused of stealing money paid to him by consumers, forging a contractor’s license issued by the General Contractor’s Board, using a forged building permit to defraud a customer, and fraudulently using a customer’s credit card.

The indictment charged Kirk with 14 counts of theft of property in the first degree, one count each of theft of property in the second degree, criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree, forgery in the second degree, and fraudulent use of a debit or credit card.

“Several consumers entrusted Kirk with large sums of money, hoping to build their dream pools. Instead, they were met with heartbreak,” Marshall said. “He betrayed their trust, deceived them, and stole their hard-earned savings. Hopefully, those victims can find solace in the knowledge that he is finally being held accountable.

“This conviction sends a clear message: those who exploit hardworking families and betray their trust will face justice. Our office remains committed to standing up for consumers and protecting them from fraud and deception.”

In his plea agreement with the state, Kirk agreed to accept sentences of 20 years’ imprisonment for each of the first-degree theft charges, 5 year’s imprisonment for the second-degree theft of property, possession of a forged instrument, and forgery charges, and 5 year’s imprisonment for the fraudulent use of a credit card charge.

All sentences are to be served concurrently.

The Attorney General’s Consumer Interest Division prosecuted the case. Marshall is thanking the work and collaboration of the Huntsville Police Department, the Madison Police Department, and the Madison County District Attorney’s Office for their invaluable assistance in this case.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Huntsville Hospital officials responded to a survey critical of its patient safety practices, calling it an “affront” to dedicated caregivers and first responders.

The survey by Leapfrog gave Huntsville Hospital an “F” for patient safety and medical issues. Twice a year, the Leapfrog Group releases grades on nearly 3,000 general acute-care hospitals nationwide.

The overall grade is based on scores across 32 categories, with possible grades of A, B, C, D, or F. The latest scorecard only focused on preventing medical errors and patient harm.

“The Leapfrog survey is not an accurate measure of patient safety at Huntsville Hospital,” the hospital said in a release. “The hospital did not complete this voluntary 353-page survey, yet Leapfrog chose to publish a rating with incomplete information.

“While we would rather have these staff members taking care of patients, and we recognize that Leapfrog may not be the best indicator of hospital quality, allowing an organization to suggest we do not prioritize patient safety is an affront to dedicated care givers and first responders working around the clock to make Huntsville a better place to live.”

According to its website, the Leapfrog Hospital Survey uses national performance measures to evaluate individual hospitals on safety, quality, and efficiency. Data and findings from the Survey provide consumers with potentially life-saving information on hospital quality.

The measures included on the Hospital Survey are predicated on the latest science and are selected with guidance from scientific advisors at the Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety at Johns Hopkins Medicine, as well as Leapfrog’s volunteer expert panels.

“This process is unfair to the thousands of dedicated clinicians working around the clock to care for the community and respond to emergencies anytime they are called,” the hospital said.

Huntsville Hospital is consistently ranked by US News as the second-best hospital in Alabama (https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/al). The hospital is fully accredited by the Joint Commission, the gold standard for hospital quality and safety, holding hospitals accountable for over 250 standards measured in person by a seven-person survey team. Forbes considers HH one of the best employers in Alabama, and Newsweek named HH one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women.

The hospital said its cardiac surgery programs were recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s 50 best programs seven years in a row. HH is a certified stroke center and accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer.

“Blue Cross and Blue Shield recognizes HH for distinction in cardiac care, spine surgery, bariatric surgery, and maternity care,” the statement said. “Every employee and physician in the HH Health System completes mandatory training in patient safety and high reliability. HH excels in most quality ratings and scores poorly in a Leapfrog survey that it does not complete.

“Huntsville Hospital takes care of the sickest patients in north Alabama and southern Tennessee. Mortality ratings referenced in the Leapfrog survey fail to account for the severity of illness managed by hospitals that accept transfers of patients needing the highest level of care. To ensure we are providing these patients the best possible care, Huntsville Hospital dedicates significant resources to specialty-specific clinical databases including the Society of Thoracic Surgery, American College of Cardiology NCDR Registry, Vermont Oxford neonatology database, National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, National Trauma database, and Cancer Registry.”

The hospital’s statement concluded, “The perception of this matter is not lost on us. Going forward, Huntsville Hospital and Madison Hospital will add the significant resources that are required to complete a survey of Leapfrog’s scope.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

Several small businesses in Madison County are among 20 statewide to share more than $3.3 million in SBIR/STTR supplemental grants from Innovate Alabama. The grants will help the companies scale cutting-edge technologies, create jobs, and deepen their roots in Alabama.

The awards – which include 11 companies in Huntsville and Madison – are part of Innovate Alabama’s ongoing mission to support entrepreneurs through strategic funding and foster a thriving innovation ecosystem statewide.

RELATED: Innovate Alabama awards nearly $15 million to 58 organizations statewide, bringing total to 170

The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program provides non-dilutive funding to companies that have previously received federal SBIR or STTR grants, helping bridge the gap between research and commercialization. With this latest round, Innovate Alabama has now invested more than $17 million across 82 small businesses since the program’s inception.

“By providing follow-on capital through our Supplemental Grant Program, we’re equipping Alabama’s most promising startups with the resources needed to take their innovations to market,” said Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama. “These investments are driving job creation, attracting additional external capital into Alabama, advancing research and technology, and securing Alabama’s place as a competitive hub for innovation.”

The funding enables small businesses to expand operations, hire talent, and continue developing transformative technologies across sectors such as biotechnology, aerospace, energy, advanced manufacturing, and more.

The recipients are:

Applied Technology Solutions, Huntsville: Specializes in hypersonic technologies, including advanced materials, hypersonic environments, and ground test design.
Cosmic Shielding Corp., Huntsville: Specializes in providing radiation shielding technologies for commercial and government space systems.
Eikon Research, Huntsville: Specializes in advanced radar technology, including digital radar design, radar operational software, firmware, modeling & simulation, and UI development.
Hybird Space Systems, Huntsville: Specializes in developing advanced, affordable rocket propulsion technologies for space exploration, national security, and commercial aerospace applications.
Hyperion Aerospace, Huntsville: Specializes in developing green thruster technology for spacecraft, missile defense, and satellites.
KODA Technologies, Huntsville: Specializes in weapon system development – from hands-on engineering to executive leadership. The company solves problems and develops highly technical products for the Department of Defense and NASA.
Mathinvestments, Huntsville: Specializes in capturing return premiums associated with investing in individual businesses by utilizing proprietary financial models.
nou Systems, Huntsville: The nou Systems (nSI) mission is to develop products and provide services essential to solving our customers’ most difficult, urgent, and demanding technical problems.
SSS Optical Technologies, Huntsville: Specializes in optical nanomaterials. SSSOT and Oakwood University develop Polymer Anti-damage Nanocomposite Down-converting Armor (PANDA) coating to replace cover glass.
Tellus1 Scientific, Huntsville: Specializes in advanced optical sensing and measurement, particularly system engineering, modeling, and analysis of optics and sensors for space telescopes used in astronomy and remote sensing.
VETS, Madison: Specializes in developing digital threads and digital twins, Nuclear Surety, Cybersecurity, System Safety, Test Engineering, Systems Engineering, Program Management, Training Development, and Product Support.

To learn more about the Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program and other Innovate Alabama initiatives, visit www.innovatealabama.org.

Courtesy of 256 Today

A tornado that touched down Tuesday evening on Redstone Arsenal was the 14th tornado recorded in North Alabama over the past week.

A total of 13 tornadoes and one waterspout were confirmed across north Alabama from the May 20 severe weather outbreak, according to the National Weather Service Huntsville.

Tuesday’s tornado on Redstone, called the Ranger Road tornado, was classified an EF-0 with estimated maximum winds of 83 mph.

The survey team said today the tornado “bent fencing while entering the property, then proceeded to shift dozens of 500-pound storage tanks, tossing about three of them.”

A metal frame storage building was also damaged – one side was collapsed with metal framework bent.

“Some of the contents of the building were tossed out and strewn downwind several hundred yards, found by on-site employees,” the summary said. “As quickly as the tornado developed, it dissipated short of Saturn Drive, with no further identifiable dame found downwind.”

It was on the ground for just two minutes, 6:51-6:53 p.m., and traveled 25 yards, the survey team reported.

For a summary of the tornadoes, click here.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Limestone County is the fastest growing in the state and its schools are nearly busting at the seams.

To help meet the educational demands that are coming, Limestone County Schools broke ground Wednesday on an expansion of the Limestone County Career Technical Center.

This $12 million project will consist of adding 11 classrooms, additional restrooms, expanding the auditorium/meeting room, a front entrance, and office space.

In the fall 2013, the Career Technical Center saw a then-record enrollment of 545 students. The demand has been steadily growing since, and this fall enrollment is expected to hit 1,200.

“Our board is very proactive and wants to continue to improve things in Limestone County,” Limestone County Schools Superintendent Dr. Randy Shearouse said. “One way we’re doing that is by adding on here at Career Tech so that we can accommodate more students in the future.”

RELATED: Alabama Superintendent Mackey spotlights workforce diploma on Fox and Friends, highlights career tech students

In addition to the building upgrades, Shearouse said the board is also looking at adding programs such as aviation. A health science teacher is being added, too.

Renovations are expected to take about 18-24 months.

Courtesy of 256 Today

A requirement for Department of Defense civilian employees that drew mockery and criticism has been terminated, the DoD announced today.

Interim Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Jules W. Hurst III informed the DoD civilian workforce via email last week that the department would conclude the weekly “What You Did Last Week” initiative today, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.

Hurst asked employees to share in their final submission one concrete idea to enhance efficiency or root out waste, Parnell said in a news release.

In February, the Department of Defense asked its civilian employees to submit an email detailing five of their accomplishments from the previous week.The directive was announced in a memorandum from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called “Guidance for Department of Defense Civilian Employees on Responding to the Office of Personnel Management’s ‘What You Did Last Week’ Email.”

“This initiative provided leaders and supervisors with additional insights into their employees’ contributions, fostered accountability, and helped to identify opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness throughout the Department,” Parnell said. “The department remains committed to driving meaningful change in support of the mission.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

A time-honored tradition returns to Huntsville for the 20th year.

Featuring some of the best local artists and sweet summer sounds, the Concerts in the Park series is back next week.

Arts Huntsville and the Huntsville Parks and Recreation are joining for the 20th anniversary of bringing free, live music to the heart of downtown.

“For two decades, Concerts in the Park has been Huntsville’s quintessential summer soundtrack,” said Allison Dillon-Jauken, executive director of Arts Huntsville. “This 20th anniversary season will continue that tradition, transforming Big Spring Park every Monday evening into a vibrant stage showcasing both rising stars and beloved local bands.

“Featuring a multi-genre lineup, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer. With the addition of delicious food trucks, it’s the perfect way to kick off each week and connect with our wonderful community.”

For 10 consecutive Monday evenings, June 2-August. 4, Big Spring Park will come alive from 6:30-8:30 p.m., showcasing local musical acts. This family-friendly event invites concertgoers to bring their own seating and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and leashed pets are welcome to join in the fun.

This year’s concerts are presented with the support of Huntsville International Airport, Randolph School, Huntsville Utilities, Redstone Gateway, Huntsville/Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Cumulus Media.

The lineup features:

June 2 – Maclin & Co.; JUICE
June 9 – Maneuver Center of Excellence Band of Fort Moore
June 16 – Tommy “Saxlegend” Friend & Company; Midnight 5
June 23 – Double Barrel; Otis Walker Band
June 30 – The Grasstronauts; Michael Goldsmith Band
July 7 – GORRIO; Rocket City Latin Band
July 14 – The Nerve; JEDEye
July 21 – Caribbean Island Music Collective; Sister Luck
July 28 – CYPRSS; Levon
Aug. 4 – Surprise lineup (bands TBD)

The June 9 concert is part of Huntsville’s Armed Forces Week celebrations. Arts Huntsville and the city of Huntsville present the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band of Fort Moore, Ga., with a service history dating back to 1916. The concert will conclude with a downtown fireworks display.

The June 16 program will be the annual Juneteenth celebration, a concert dedicated to celebrating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and promoting unity within our community.

“Reaching this 20th anniversary milestone is a testament to the enduring appeal of Concerts in the Park,” said James Gossett, director of Huntsville Parks and Recreation. “It’s a tradition the city is incredibly proud to support, offering free, family-friendly entertainment right in the heart of Huntsville for all to enjoy.”

Food trucks will be located along Williams Avenue, with additional food and beverage options available within the park. The vendors include Golden Years Ice Cream Parlor & Diner, Iceworks, Vujee Vegan, Southern Wagyu, Wiener von Braun, Big Flavor Tenders and Wings, O Taste & See BBQ, Piper & Leaf Tea Company, Cream on Wheels, Rocket City Hibachi, and Yum Yum’s Gourmet Popcorn & Lemonade Stand.

Also, in the tradition of the event, concertgoers are welcome to bring their own picnics.

For information, visit artshuntsville.org/concerts-in-the-park/, www.huntsvilleal.gov, and facebook.com/hsvconcertsinthepark.

Courtesy of 256 Today

A radar that is capable of tracking hypersonic missiles was delivered to the Missile Defense Agency on Monday, Raytheon announced.

The upgraded radar for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense has a longer range and can provide targeting coordinates to other missile defense interceptors beyond just the Army’s THAAD batteries.

It is the first AN/TPY-2 radar with a complete Gallium Nitride, or GaN, populated array, Raytheon said. The AN/TPY-2 is a missile defense radar that is ready to defend the U.S. homeland and American allies by detecting, tracking, and discriminating ballistic missiles in multiple phases of flight.

“What the TPY-2 does now, with the Gallium Nitride front-end in it, is it can see things twice as far, so we can make that command and control decision a lot earlier on which effector to use, whether it’s an SM series or it’s a Patriot, or it’s a THAAD,” Jon Norman, Raytheon’s vice president for Air and Space Defense Systems Requirements and Capabilities, told Breaking Defense.

The radar can be deployed as a standalone, mobile unit rather than being directly wired into a THAAD battery, Norman said, which positions it as a potential contribution to President Donald Trump’s Golden Dome plan to create a comprehensive missile shield for the US homeland.

GaN provides greater sensitivity to increase range, expands surveillance capacity, and supports the hypersonic defense mission. The radar also features the latest CX6 high-performance computing software that offers more precise target discrimination and electronic attack protection.

“This is the most advanced version of AN/TPY-2 that Raytheon has built, leveraging years of investment and innovation to produce superior capability at a lower cost to the U.S. armed forces,” said Sam Deneke, president of Air and Space Defense Systems at Raytheon. “As demand increases for missile defense of the homeland, the AN/TPY-2 radar is ready to meet the mission.”

AN/TPY-2 operates in the X-band of the electromagnetic spectrum. This enables it to see targets more clearly and distinguish between a threat and non-threat objects, like separation debris.

Norman told Breaking Defense that the combination of greater range and better discrimination makes the upgraded radar optimal for finding and tracking hypersonic missiles. Hypersonic missiles, while flying at about the same speed as a ballistic missile, are able to maneuver in flight, whereas ballistic missiles follow a predictable trajectory. They are also smaller and have a lower radar cross section than a ballistic missile, meaning they are harder to see and, therefore, intercept.

The upgraded AN/TPY-2 can now “detect these very, very small targets, and you can detect them at the separation when the booster separates from the warhead,” he said, adding that with the longer range, “we can shoot sooner, and we can hit it before it starts maneuvering.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

George Washington may not have slept here, but more than 2.8 million people stayed overnight in hotels in Madison County last year.

That’s according to the Alabama Tourism Department’s 2024 Alabama Tourism Impact Report that was released last month.

The number of overnight visitors is the most of any of the state’s 67 counties and part of Madison County’s record-setting pace established in 2023 across all measurable data, the report said.

Though Madison County is ranked second (behind Baldwin County and its beaches) on the “Most Visited Counties in Alabama” list, an estimated 3,982,545 people visited here in 2024.

“We’re thrilled that Madison County hosted more travelers in hotel accommodations than any other county in Alabama, and remained the second-most visited county in the state,” said Jennifer Moore, president & CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This strong and sustained impact is a true testament to the value of the attractions, events, venues, and activities in our community.”

Tourism is proving to be a major economic engine as travel-related expenditures in Madison County remained steady at 2023’s record-breaking level, with more than $2.4 billion in revenue. The report also said the industry’s impact resulted in more than 23,000 travel-related jobs in Madison County.

The visitors also helped Madison County residents indirectly, due to their expenditures, which saved every household more than $1,300 in additional taxes.

“Travel and tourism fuels economic development in Huntsville, Madison, and all of Madison County, and adds to the quality of life of our residents,” Moore said.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Challenging an Alabama statute that permits game wardens to search private property without a warrant, three northwest Alabama residents filed suit Tuesday in Lauderdale County Circuit Court.

Killen residents Dalton Boley and Regina Williams, and Muscle Shoals resident Dale Liles joined the Institute for Justice to file the lawsuit after each faced multiple privacy intrusions from Alabama game wardens.

Named in the suit are Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Charles Sykes, director of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Chad Howell, in his personal capacity and in his official capacity as game warden, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Jarrod Poole, in his personal capacity and in his official capacity as game warden, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; and “unknown officer,” in his personal capacity and in his official capacity as game warden, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The landowners are seeking compensation in the amount of $1 from the game wardens to Boley, Williams, and Liles for each trespass committed.

Neither Boley, Williams, nor Liles has ever been charged with any hunting violations, yet they claim game wardens have snooped around on their properties without warrants on multiple occasions.

That’s because of an Alabama statute that allows game wardens to “enter upon any land … in the performance of their duty.”

Whether it’s a posted field or residential yard, the statute gives wardens broad power to roam around private property without any warrant.

However, the three claim that the provision violates the state Constitution.

“The Alabama Constitution makes it clear that if the government wants to come searching on your property, they need a warrant based on probable cause, and game wardens are not exempt from the Constitution,” said Institute for Justice attorney Suranjan Sen.

The invasion of Williams’ and Boley’s privacy began in 2024, they said.

Williams owns 10 acres in Killen, which she has lived on her entire life. For decades, Williams said she used the backyard for outdoor recreation, but as she has gotten older, she’s been less able to enjoy the land herself.

She said she gave Boley, her neighbor, and his kids permission to use the land. Then, in February 2024, they said game wardens started intruding on the property.

“This used to be a place where I could come to relax and get away from it all, but now that I know someone could be snooping around, I find it hard to just go there and relax,” said Boley.

In November 2024, Williams said game wardens once again returned to her property. This time, they told Boley they had been watching the land and gave him a warning for baiting deer.

But Boley denied ever baiting deer and has only shot one deer on the land with a bow, more than a year before that.

Since that time, Boley — a military veteran who used to use the property as a place to relieve stress — said he has stopped using the land for his personal meditation and has kept a closer eye on his sons when they use it.

In Muscle Shoals, Liles owns and leases a combined 86 acres with sprawling fields, marshes, and swamps. Unlike Boley and Williams, Liles does use his land for hunting with his kids and grandkids.

He said there are two entrances to the property: a private gravel road and a gated entrance. Liles said he first saw a game warden’s truck parked on his land in August 2018. He said he tried to talk to the warden, but he sped away.

Six years later, also in November, a neighbor sent Liles a photo of another game warden parked on his property. Once again, Liles said he tried to talk to the warden, but once again, the warden sped away.

Since that time, Liles said he has put up “no trespassing” signs and installed a camera at the entrance, which, in January, captured another game warden attempting to drive onto his property, before seeing the camera and turning around.

“I’m all about preserving our wildlife and great outdoors — that’s why I’m the president of my local Ducks Unlimited chapter,” Liles said. “But game wardens still have to respect people’s rights.

“Aside from my own privacy concerns, I don’t like that the wardens don’t wear orange when they’re roaming around. It makes it very dangerous when you’re hunting with rifles and people aren’t wearing colors that make them easy to see.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

Recognized for his commitment to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt was honored with the prestigious Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award.

The award was presented to Aderholt (R-Haleyville) at Wednesday night’s Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s annual AcceptAbility Gala in Washington.

During the ceremony, Aderholt invited a special guest to join him on stage — Julia Greene, an intern in his Washington office who has Down syndrome.

Julia, accompanied by her father Bill Greene, has been an integral part of the Aderholt team this spring.

In his remarks, the congressman described Julia as “a shining example of what Global AcceptAbility embodies: perseverance, possibility, and promise.”

The Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award is named in honor of the legendary music producer who became a passionate advocate for individuals with Down syndrome following the birth of his daughter with the condition.

“I am deeply humbled to receive the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award,” said Aderholt. “To stand alongside my colleague, Congresswoman Diana DeGette, and be recognized by an organization that has done so much to uplift and empower people with Down syndrome is an honor I will treasure.

“Every person is fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God. People with Down syndrome are living reminders of that truth. Their joy, strength, and contributions enrich our communities and remind us of the dignity and worth of every human life.”

Presented by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, the award recognizes leaders in public service, media, and philanthropy who have shown extraordinary dedication to advocating for people with Down syndrome and their families. Past recipients include members of Congress, national media figures, and internationally renowned activists.

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation continues to lead efforts in research, medical care, and advocacy, promoting inclusion and equity for individuals with Down syndrome across the nation.

“From the halls of Congress to the heart of this community,” Aderholt said. “We must act on the belief that every life has value.”

Courtesy of 256 Today.

With a focus on sustainable farming practices and cutting-edge agtech solutions, the HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator, powered by gener8tor, will support companies that are tackling some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture today.

To that end, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology will launch the Spring 2025 cohort of the Accelerator with gener8tor, a global venture firm and startup accelerator.

This innovative program will provide an unparalleled opportunity for early-stage agricultural startups to advance their technologies, attract investment, and grow their businesses.

“We’re excited to accelerate the best and brightest startups that help to mitigate agricultural inefficiencies,” said Christopher Udall, managing director of the Accelerator. “By leveraging the expertise of HudsonAlpha and the resources of gener8tor’s network, we aim to foster innovation that will drive lasting change in the agricultural sector.”

Together, gener8tor and HudsonAlpha are helping bring economic diversity and job growth to North Alabama. The HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator is supported by the Innovate Alabama Tax Credit Program through Innovate Alabama.

Founders will have the opportunity to pitch their companies to investors, community partners, and the public.

The following companies will participate in the program:

Downland helps landowners navigate the great wealth transfer by creating succession plans to pass agricultural land down to the next generation. Downland is developing an AI-driven estate planning and land-matching platform that ensures farmland stays in production while honoring family legacies. For those without an heir, Downland also supports and matches farmers looking to pass down these assets.
Downland has generated $50,000 in revenue, signed 17 landowner letters of intent, and built a waitlist of over 200 aspiring land stewards.
Founder & CEO: Jessi Roesch, jessi@godownland.com, https://godownland.com
Ecobrew captures and reclaims carbon dioxide from the brewing process, turning a major cost and environmental liability into a source of operational savings for craft breweries. Breweries use Ecobrew’s proprietary plug-in carbon capture system to become self-sufficient, save thousands, and reduce emissions by reusing the CO₂ they already produce from the brewing process.
Ecobrew has signed four letters of intent, identified two pilot sites, and attracted $190,000 in funding, including $137,000 non-dilutive from Amazon, Intel at ASU Innovation Open, and University of Alabama’s Crimson Accelerator & Aldag Prize.
Founder & CEO: Brian Henderson, brian@ecobrewco.com, https://ecobrewco.com
Oceanfarmr provides farm management software and tech-enabled farm financing to systemize and scale shellfish and seaweed operations. Oceanfarmr’s SaaS platform has 92 active software subscriptions and an annualized revenue of $145,000.
Oceanfarmr has deployed over $500,000 in farm finance, with a pipeline of more than $50 million in ocean farming finance inquiries.
Co-founder and CEO: Ewan McAsh, ewan@oceanfarmr.com, https://oceanfarmr.com
Tylmen Tech uses stationary cameras to instantly scan livestock postmortem, capturing precise data on fat distribution, yield, and cutability. This real-time insight is designed to help meat packers reduce waste and maximize carcass value, addressing a $5.7 billion loss in the U.S. beef industry. Tylmen Tech’s system is built to operate on high-speed assembly lines across all meat-packing facilities, with support for both cows and pigs and flexible cloud or on-site processing.
Co-founder and CEO: Lloyd Yates, lloyd@tylmen.com, https://tylmen.com

Investors, mentors, and community members interested in connecting with this cohort are encouraged to contact Udall at christopher@gener8tor.com.

Courtesy of 256 Today

“There’ll have to be a discussion, and the Secretary of the Air Force will have a discussion with President Trump,” Tuberville (R-Auburn) said before the confirmation. “But the last two secretaries of the Air Force have picked Huntsville. Even Joe Biden’s (secretary) picked Huntsville.

“So, it’s the obvious thing to do. It’s the right thing to do.”

Meink entered the Air Force through ROTC in 1988 at South Dakota State University. He graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering and later earned a doctorate in aeronautical and astronautical engineering from Ohio State University.

He has logged time as a KC-135 navigator and instructor and as a lead test engineer for the design and evaluation of ballistic missile test vehicles for the Missile Defense Agency. Meink was the deputy undersecretary of the Air Force for space under the Obama administration.

Meink was selected by then-President Trump in 2020 to serve as principal deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office, which is charged with developing and operating spy satellites and related technologies.

“Everyone knows that U.S. Space Command headquarters should be in Huntsville because that is best for our national security,” U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) told 256 Today. “I’ve met with President Trump and Vice President Vance and can assure you the topic of Space Command came up.

“The 21-category selection speaks for itself, and I look forward to the new Air Force secretary recommending Huntsville to be the permanent home for Space Command headquarters when he is sworn in.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

A contribution from the state Senate majority leader has been called a “vital step” toward completing a major facility for the Land Trust of North Alabama.

Majority Leader Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) made a $50,000 contribution to support the Land Trust’s planned Nature Discovery Center, a future hub for environmental education and community engagement.

“We are incredibly grateful to Senator Livingston for championing this project and helping bring the Nature Discovery Center to life,” said Capital Campaign Director Caroline Kennedy. “His support is a vital step toward building a space that will benefit our entire region.”

The Nature Discovery Center will offer hands-on exhibits, outdoor classrooms, and programs designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of North Alabama’s natural landscapes, the organization said.

A key component of the Land Trust’s vision to inspire the next generation of conservationists, the center is expected to create meaningful opportunities for connection with the outdoors.

To learn more about the Nature Discovery Center and how to get involved, visit landtrustnal.org/initiatives/nature-discovery-center/.

Courtesy of 256 Today

In a move to bring rules up to date and protect the public from deceptive ads, the Supreme Court of Alabama adopted new ethical rules addressing lawyer advertising.

“Our new rules accomplish two important things,” said Chief Justice Sarah Stewart. “First, they bring our rules up to date in terms of social and technological changes. Second, they substantially improve the public’s protection from false and misleading advertising.”

The Supreme Court asked the Alabama State Bar to review and update the advertising rules in response to concerns from the public that there is too much lawyer advertising that is deceptive, according to a news release from the Court.

Justice Jay Mitchell acted as the liaison between the Court and the Alabama State Bar to ensure that the process fully satisfied the Court’s request.

“These rules are the product of a years-long collaboration between the Supreme Court and the State Bar,” Mitchell said. “The clarity they bring will benefit both the legal profession and the public at large.”

In response to a request from the Supreme Court, the Alabama State Bar conducted a public survey to find out the specific concerns with lawyer advertising. The survey found that Alabamians overwhelmingly believe attorneys who appear in advertisements should be licensed to practice in the state.

The survey also found Alabamians want to know if an advertising attorney has a law office in their community, whether advertising attorneys will personally handle their case, and whether an advertised verdict amount was actually received.

A committee formed by the Alabama State Bar drafted new rules that addressed these concerns while staying within the constitutional guardrails established by the United States Supreme Court.

In this regard, Michal Upchurch, co–chair of the drafting committee, said that “the Committee’s goal was to draft rules that are reasonable, practical and constitutionally sound… [But] our rules must recognize and respect that the United States Supreme Court has essentially held that lawyer advertising is protected by the First Amendment unless it is false or misleading.”

Stewart stressed that the legal system needs to be transparent and accountable to the public.

“It is important to the Supreme Court that rules governing the behavior of attorneys in our state protect the public to the furthest extent possible within the constraints of the Constitution,” Stewart said. “We strongly believe we owe Alabamians transparency and accountability for attorney and judicial conduct. We are always mindful that the public’s trust and confidence in the justice system must dictate what we do every day.”

Courtesy of 256 Today.

In the wake of last week’s sudden firing of the Librarian of Congress, several members of Congress, including U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, are calling for a probe of potential improper communications between the Library of Congress and the White House.

Also Monday, there was a brief standoff at the library where staff refused to admit Justice Department officials who claimed to be in charge of the library. After library officials resisted, the DOJ officials left.

Capitol Police officers were called to the scene but told by library staff that they were not needed.

Sewell (D-Birmingham) joined Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.) in a letter request to the Library of Congress Inspector General Kimberly Benoit seeking an investigation and continued monitoring of potential improper communications between the Library of Congress, a legislative branch agency, and the executive branch. The members also include the possibility of the unauthorized transfer of congressional or Library data to executive branch agencies and personnel.

“The abrupt firing of Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden raises serious concerns that the executive branch is improperly targeting the Library and its employees with adverse employment actions and inappropriate requests for information including, but not limited to, confidential communications between congressional offices and the Library’s various service units,” wrote the lawmakers. “The Library is part of the legislative branch—an independent and coequal branch of government.

“The executive has no authority to demand or receive confidential legislative branch data, and the Library has no legal basis to supply such information without authorization from Congress.”

The letter was also signed by House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), Appropriations’ Subcommittee on Legislative Branch Ranking Member Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.), and Rep. Julie Johnson (D-Texas).

The members request that the IG’s Office investigate:

Whether the Department of Government Efficiency or other executive branch entities have requested or otherwise attempted to access or review Library data, including but not limited to communications between the Congressional Research Service and congressional offices;
Whether Library staff have received directives from the executive branch to modify access protocols or information sharing practices with entities outside the legislative branch
Whether executive branch officials have attempted to circumvent existing inter-branch communication pathways
Any other potentially illegal or inappropriate actions by the executive branch that you discover as part of your investigatory efforts

“Given the time-sensitive nature of this matter and the potential for irreparable harm to one of our most important and inimitable institutions, I request this investigation be prioritized,” the request said.

Courtesy of 256 Today

The state’s Office of Information Technology is responding to a cybersecurity event that is affecting certain state systems.

In a news release, Governor Kay Ivey’s office said immediate steps have been taken to contain the situation while working with a leading third-party cybersecurity firm to investigate, secure, and restore impacted services.

“The event was first detected Friday evening, and teams have been working around-the-clock to identify and mitigate any impacts,” the release said. “The source of the cybersecurity event is being investigated, but all state employees are being reminded to be cautious for potentially malicious emails. Investigations are currently underway to identify the entity responsible for the cybersecurity event.

“Investigations are also underway to understand the full scope of the event, and while some state employee usernames and passwords were compromised, it is currently believed that no Alabamians’ personally identifiable information has been retrieved.”

Temporary disruptions such as website accessibility, as well as email and phone communication, may occur, but our teams are actively working to establish a timetable and to ensure continuity of essential services to minimize any impact, the news release said.

The OIT said it is equally committed to transparency and security as they manage this response. Ongoing updates and additional information are available www.oit.alabama.gov/cybereventMay2025.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Projects at two North Alabama airports will soon take off, thanks to grants from the Federal Aviation Administration.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt announced Wednesday that Cullman and Albertville regional airports have received more than $1.9 million in federal Airport Infrastructure Grants to support critical infrastructure improvements.

Cullman Regional Airport – Folsom Field was awarded $1,011,708, and Albertville Regional Airport – Thomas J. Brumlik Field received $939,038.

“These federal investments in airport infrastructure are vital to supporting economic growth and public safety across North Alabama,” said Aderholt (R-Haleyville). “By upgrading and expanding our aviation facilities, we are ensuring they can continue to serve our communities for years to come.

“I’m pleased to see both Cullman and Albertville airports receiving these funds for important construction and modernization projects.”

The funding for Cullman will finance the construction of a 600-foot Midfield Taxiway to accommodate increased aircraft activity. This grant funds Phase 2, which includes the construction phase of the project.

“We are thankful for this grant and the opportunities it will provide to develop the airport for the next 10–15 years,” said Ben Harrison, director of Cullman Regional Airport. “After careful collaboration with the airport board, city council, county commission, ALDOT Aeronautics, the FAA, and our engineers, we have a good project that will help our entire community continue to advance forward and meet the ever-changing needs in aviation.”

Albertville’s grant will go toward the reconstruction of runway and taxiway lighting on Runway 5/23 and Taxiway A, which have reached the end of their service life.

“These grants will help ensure that local airports continue to meet modern safety standards and serve the needs of the community,” Aderholt said. “Airports like Cullman and Albertville are vital assets for rural areas, supporting both economic development and emergency services.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

Combining compassionate care with science, two Huntsville institutions are partnering to revolutionize the treatment of psychological trauma.

Under the agreement, a new test developed by iXpressGenes will be used to measure Kids to Love therapy clients ages 18 and older for trauma levels and assess the effectiveness of their treatment.

“This partnership with Kids to Love is more than a collaboration — it’s a shared mission to bring healing into sharper focus,” said iXG CEO John Schmitt. “By combining compassionate care with scientific precision, we’re equipping trauma survivors with the tools to reclaim their future.

“We’re just getting started, and the hope ahead is extraordinary.”

When a client comes to Kids to Love for therapy, the iXG test will indicate where their trauma levels are. Kids to Love’s Grant Hill Trauma Team can take those results and develop a treatment method using all specialized modalities.

During treatment, follow-up testing will be able to show therapists which treatment methods each client responds best.

For Kids to Love, the goal remains the same: Treat someone who has experienced trauma so they can live a normal life free of personal pain.

Now, with the partnership with iXG, therapists will have real scientific evidence to guide their treatment and make it the most effective and efficient possible.

“The Grant Hill Trauma Team works every day to heal trauma in our clients through a wide variety of methods,” said Lee Marshall, Kids to Love Founder and CEO. “Having a way to physically see what methods work is going to be a game changer for treating clients who need to overcome trauma that is holding them back.

“They want to get back to living their lives free of trauma, and this has the potential to get them there faster than ever.”

iXG’s Trauma Autoimmune Indicator test uses advanced RNA biomarker technology to detect immune and neuro-inflammatory responses linked to PTSD.

By analyzing RNA from blood, it identifies inflammation dysregulation, providing an objective, non-invasive method for assessing PTSD risk. This breakthrough screening enables early intervention by detecting trauma-induced diseases before symptoms appear, revolutionizing PTSD detection, prevention, and ongoing treatment.

Therapists can use the biomarkers from the TAI test to assess how well a client is responding to treatment and individualize their treatment to increase its effectiveness in treating trauma.

The program will launch in June for clients ages 18 and older.

The Kids to Love Foundation launched the Grant Hill Trauma Team in 2023. Team members are licensed therapists who specialize in a wide range of services, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Brainspotting, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.

The Mark C. Smith Mental Wellness Center, a state-of-the-art mental wellness facility, is under construction next to the Kids to Love Center at 140 Castle Drive in Madison.

The facility will provide rooms for therapy as well as office space for the Grant Hill Trauma Team. For more information about the trauma services provided, visit hopefortrauma.org.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Bipartisan legislation that would aid veterans in crisis with the help of local law enforcement agencies was introduced today in the U.S. House by Rep. Dale Strong.

Strong (R-Huntsville), was joined by Reps. Lou Correa (D-Calif.), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.), and Glenn Ivey (D-Md. ) in introducing the Supporting Every at-Risk Veteran In Critical Emergencies (SERVICE) Act. Nine additional members joined as original cosponsors of the bill.

The SERVICE Act would establish a pilot program to allow local law enforcement agencies to use the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants to establish dedicated Veterans Response Teams within departments to respond to emergency calls involving veterans in crisis.

A Veterans Response Team is a team of law enforcement officers who also have a background in military service. Members of the team would be available 24/7 to respond to instances of a veteran in crisis, including mental health or substance abuse situations.

Following the initial response, members of the team would assist in connecting the individual with community and Department of Veterans Affairs resources.

“The SERVICE Act is a crucial step toward ensuring our veterans get the care and understanding they deserve in times of crisis,” said Strong. “We owe our servicemembers a debt that cannot be repaid, and it is my honor to introduce this legislation and work toward providing our veterans with the compassionate and effective resources they need.

“This legislation honors their service by meeting them with support, not stigma.”

This program was first implemented in Cincinnati and now serves as the blueprint for the state. Retired Sgt. Dave Corlett established the program and maintains that having a fellow veteran respond to these calls is more effective in de-escalating and ensuring that veterans are aware of the resources available to them.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled than to hear about the reintroduction of the SERVICE Act,” Corbett said. “As a military veteran and 30-year first responder, I have seen the effects of trauma on our warfighters. We all want to reduce the stigma of seeking help for mental health issues and reduce the number of military and first responder suicides.

“This program has proven itself in the real world to be a great step in that direction.”

The SERVICE Act has been endorsed by American Legion, Hope for the Warriors, Vietnam Veterans of America, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Policing Institute, Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association, and the CJ3 Foundation.

“When our nation’s veterans return home, we owe it to them to make sure they’re met with the support they deserve and have earned — and we must keep our moral commitment to them,” said Correa. “Many of our veterans return home with invisible wounds and respond better to their fellow veterans in times of need. This common-sense, bipartisan legislation is key to fulfilling our promise to those who’ve offered their lives for our freedom—and will save countless lives along the way.”

There were 6,407 veteran suicides in 2022, according to the most recent VA data. Most veterans who committed suicide were not receiving any form of care at the VA.

VA studies suggest that strides can be made toward prevention with greater community-based intervention and coalition-building and by increasing awareness of and access to mental health services, among other things.

“Veterans have served us in our nation’s time of need. Now we must keep this sacred covenant to serve our veterans in their darkest hour,” said Ivey. “The SERVICE Act will help them get mental health services and prevent suicides. Service men and women who now face PTSD, psycho-social trauma, and physical symptoms of being in war zones across our world must get treatment for what ails them. My father and father-in-law both served in the military, so I know what it means to be a part of a military family. They deserve the respect and dignity of getting the care they rightly earned.

“I co-lead this bill because this is about doing what’s best for veterans in crisis and helping our law enforcement personnel assist in this effort.”

It is estimated that 20-25% of law enforcement officers have a background in military service. Establishing Veterans Response Teams affords an opportunity for positive engagement for veterans both within their departments and within their broader communities, which could assist in the transition between military and civilian life and improve recruitment and retention efforts within law enforcement.

“Research shows that when a veteran is in crisis, they are most receptive to help and support provided by fellow veterans,” said Salazar. “Nearly 20% of our U.S. law enforcement has served in the military, and they are undoubtedly the most well-equipped to respond to other veterans in need. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, and we owe them the best care possible when they return from their service.

“I am proud to co-lead the SERVICE Act to provide support to our brave men and women in uniform.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

A bill to target a tax loophole that hurts state-led wildlife conservation efforts has been introduced by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville.

Tuberville and Sen. Mike Crapo said the Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act would hold foreign sellers to the same tax regulations as domestic manufacturers.

“Alabama is proud to be home to hundreds of small businesses who make sporting equipment that outdoorsmen and conservationists rely on,” said Tuberville (R-Auburn). “The last thing these business owners need is to be punished for producing goods right here in the U.S.A.”

“I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Crapo, which closes a loophole allowing foreign sellers to exploit our domestic retailers and rob money from our state conservation programs.”

Conservation and sporting groups, including the Alabama Department of Conservation, Archery Trade Association, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, American Sportfishing Association, and The Conservation Fund, have endorsed the legislation.

“We applaud Senator Tuberville’s support of the Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act,” said Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “These funds are critical to supporting outdoor activities in the U.S., and we rely on them heavily in Alabama.”

“This legislation will help secure state conservation funding and ensure all Americans have access to quality outdoor recreation throughout the country.”

For decades, the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act have provided states and territories with essential funding for wildlife restoration, conservation, hunter education programs, and boating access programs.

These programs, funded through excise taxes on sportfishing and archery equipment, have contributed more than $1.3 billion in FY2025 to support conservation efforts across the country.

However, a loophole in current tax policy allows some online purchases of imported sporting goods to bypass these excise taxes when purchased directly from foreign sellers, leading to a shortfall of tens of millions of dollars from going to conservation funds.

Many consumers are unaware that they may be responsible for these taxes, and even those who are aware often struggle to navigate IRS guidelines on calculating and paying them.

“Federal excise taxes on certain recreational outdoor sporting equipment provide funding for conservation programs,” said Crapo (R-Idaho). “This bill closes loopholes on imported fishing and archery equipment that deprive fish and wildlife conservation programs of additional critical funds.”

“This move will help level the playing field for Idaho and American companies and strengthen existing conservation programs.”

A recent Government Accountability Office report recommended that Congress address the issue by ensuring that U.S. online marketplaces, rather than consumers, are responsible for collecting and remitting these excise taxes.

The Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act would:

Require U.S. online marketplaces to collect and remit federal excise taxes on imported archery and fishing equipment, treating them as the importer of record.
Ensure that funding for state-led wildlife conservation efforts is not lost due to tax loopholes.
Maintain fairness for domestic retailers who already pay these taxes on sporting goods they sell.
Simplify the tax process for consumers, eliminate confusion, and ensure that conservation programs receive the full funding they deserve.

“We thank Senators Tuberville and Crapo for their leadership in helping to make the Sport Fish Restoration and Wildlife Restoration funds whole,” said Jim Fredericks, chair of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies’ Fisheries and Water Resources Policy Committee and Director of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. “State fisheries programs count on these funds to maintain the good quality fishing opportunities that keep our anglers coming back for more.”

A complete text of the bill can be found here. U.S. Reps. Blake Moore (R-Utah) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this year.

“The Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act will ensure the future viability of the Sport Fish Restoration Fund by closing a loophole and securing millions of dollars in lost excise tax revenue to improve recreational fishing,” said Glenn Hughes, president and CEO of American Sportfishing Association. “Since 1950, excise taxes on fishing equipment have provided $12 billion for conservation efforts and improved access for anglers across the country – a unique user-pay, public-benefit system that has become a cornerstone of the American conservation model.”

“We applaud Senators Tuberville and Crapo for introducing this legislation and for their commitment to the sportfishing industry, which contributes $230 billion to the U.S. economy each year.”

Courtesy of 256 Today