On Monday, Governor Kay Ivey announced that the Trump administration has approved Alabama’s final Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program proposal, which now officially unlocks nearly $460 million in grants to bring high-speed internet to the last unserved corners of the state.

Today’s milestone is the most powerful testament to well over a decade of sustained attention from state leaders to close Alabama’s digital divide.

“This approval marks an important step forward in our work to close the digital divide in Alabama,” Governor Ivey said in a statement.

“Reliable high-speed internet is essential for economic growth, education, healthcare and everyday life. I am proud of the collaboration between our state leaders, ADECA, local communities and providers that made this plan possible. With this progress, we are ensuring that families and businesses across Alabama will have the connectivity they need to thrive in the modern economy.”

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) signed off on the plan, which funds 63 projects designed to reach approximately 92,000 currently unserved locations statewide.

With completion of those projects, Alabama will achieve full broadband coverage as defined by NTIA.

Of the 63 projects, 71% will use fiber technology, 24% will use low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology, and 5% will use hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) technology.

Awardees span a wide range of national and Alabama-based companies and cooperatives:

Amazon – $8.83 million total

• Statewide –$8.83 million to provide access to high-speed internet service to 14,728 locations throughout the state.

Ardmore Telephone Co. – $2.63 million total

• Lowndes County – $2.63 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 251 locations.

AT&T – $72.96 million total

• Autauga County – $2.62 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 366 locations.
• Bibb County – $1.54 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 154 locations.
• Clarke County – $7.79 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 779 locations.
• Cullman County – $3.67 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 368 locations.
• Dallas County – $14.45 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,487 locations.
• Jefferson County – $9.27 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,542 locations.
• Lee County – $9.93 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,132 locations.
• Montgomery County – $4.48 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 862 locations.
• Morgan County – $194,503 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 105 locations.
• Russell County – $1.12 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 639 locations.
• Shelby County – $8.17 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 817 locations.
• Talladega County – $4.68 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 468 locations.
• Walker County – $5.05 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 505 locations.

Brightspeed – $14.31 million total

• Butler County – $1.73 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 707 locations.
• Coffee County – $2.07 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 349 locations.
• Crenshaw County – $3.71 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 466 locations.
• Geneva County – $2.54 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 396 locations.
• Henry County – $1.87 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 680 locations.
• Pickens County – $2.39 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,804 locations.

Comcast – $132.36 million total

• Calhoun County – $10.30 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,231 locations.
• Colbert County – $7.71 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,042 locations.
• Etowah County – $11.61 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,194 locations.
• Houston County – $14.29 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 2,585 locations.
• Lauderdale County – $8.83 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,190 locations.
• Mobile County – $30.60 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 5,295 locations.
• St. Clair County – $16.61 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 2,172 locations.
• Tuscaloosa County – $32.41 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 3,389 locations.

Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative – $4.23 million total

• DeKalb County – $2.60 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 322 locations.
• Marshall County – $1.63 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 273 locations.

Millry Telephone Company, Inc. – $9.45 million total

• Washington County – $9.45 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,117 locations.

mStreet Fiber Alabama – $24.21 million total

• Greene County – $2.69 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 384 locations.
• Hale County – $6.37 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 872 locations.
• Marengo County – $3.75 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 511 locations.
• Perry County – $4.79 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,167 locations.
• Sumter County – $6.61 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 886 locations.

Point Broadband – $1.82 million total

• Clay County – $1.82 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,176 locations.

Premier Broadband– $46.35 million total

• Chilton County – $19.91 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 2,006 locations.
• Cleburne County – $20.55 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 2,066 locations.
• Lawrence County – $5.89 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 658 locations.

SP Broadband – $57.6 million total

• Conecuh County – $22.81 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 3,149 locations.
• Escambia County – $10.84 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,383 locations.
• Monroe County – $23.95 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 3,395 locations.

SpaceX – $7.85 million total

• Statewide – $3.91 million to provide high-speed internet service to 3,461 locations in different parts of the state.
• Bullock County – $41,250 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 48 locations.
• Chambers County – $306,000 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 378 locations.
• Choctaw County – $138,750 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 160 locations.
• Covington County – $317,250 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 406 locations.
• Jackson County – $251,250 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 260 locations.
• Pike County – $498,000 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 431 locations.
• Tallapoosa County – $761,250 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 848 locations.
• Wilcox County – $1.47 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,534 locations.
• Winston County – $198,000 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 245 locations.

Spectrum Southeast – $16.61 million

• Blount County – $6.51 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,271 locations.
• Cherokee County – $606,229 to provide access to high-speed internet service in 142 locations.
• Dale County – $9.50 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 1,093 locations.

Windsteam Alabama – $17.86 million total

• Barbour County – $6.19 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 864 locations.
• Coosa County – $2.89 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 514 locations.
• Elmore County – $5.07 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 865 locations.
• Macon County – $3.71 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 531 locations.

Zitel – $41.87 million

• Baldwin County – $29.83 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 9,984 locations.
• Randolph County – $12.04 million to provide access to high-speed internet service in 4,538 locations.

ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said the approval reflects years of deliberate groundwork.

“This approval reflects the strong partnership between Alabama, the federal government, internet providers and local communities across our state,” Boswell said.

“Under Governor Ivey’s leadership, our goal has always been clear – deliver reliable, high-speed internet to every eligible location in Alabama in the most responsible and cost-effective way possible. This plan and these projects position our state to do exactly that while ensuring these investments will support Alabama’s communities, businesses and families for generations to come.”

RELATED: Be Linked Alabama: Interactive map lights up broadband growth

The roots of Monday’s announcement stretch back to around 2010, when Republicans took control of both chambers of the Alabama Legislature for the first time in 136 years and broadband connectivity quickly emerged as a priority of the new majorities.

What followed was a massive scale-up of legislative and executive actions spanning more than a decade.

By the time BEAD funds became available, Alabama had the institutional infrastructure, partnerships and policy framework in place to move faster and more efficiently than nearly any other state in the country.

According to ADECA and Governor’s Office, that disciplined focus has paid off in how far Alabama has stretched the available dollars.

Of the original $1.4 billion allocated to Alabama, ADECA is saving more than $800 million, over 60% of the original allocation.

The 63 funded projects average less than $5,000 per location served, a figure that compares favorably to national benchmarks.

When ADECA submitted the final proposal to NTIA in September, many states’ BEAD deployments were running $4,000-$10,000 per location, with remote areas pushing averages even higher.

Alabama came in at the low end of that range, which placed the state among the highest echelon of affordability and effectiveness.

Former Alabama Senate Majority Leader Clay Scofield, who was central to those efforts during his time in the Alabama Legislature, said today from his role as CEO of the Energy Institute of Alabama, that the Trump administration’s approval, and the state’s award of more than $460 million, is a “transformational milestone in our state’s broadband journey.”

“As a result of Governor Kay Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, and electric utilities and internet service providers across our state developing, prioritizing, and implementing a plan for broadband expansion that has been a model for states across the country to follow, we have secured significant levels of funding from the federal government that will impact the lives of tens of thousands of Alabamians,” Scofield said.

“This is yet another huge leap forward for our state and our mission to extend high-speed internet access to all Alabamians.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced that flags across Alabama will be lowered on the day of interment for fallen Air Force Major John A. “Alex” Klinner, following last week’s deadly military aircraft incident.

The directive comes after the March 12 tragedy in which six United States military personnel lost their lives when a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft crashed while operating over western Iraq in support of Operation Epic Fury.

According to the governor’s office, three of those killed were assigned to the 99th Air Refueling Squadron of the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Sumpter Smith Joint Air National Guard Base in Birmingham.

Among them was Major John A. “Alex” Klinner, 33, of Trussville, an eight-year Air Force veteran who served as chief of squadron standardization and evaluations.

The directive does not take effect immediately. Instead, flags will be lowered statewide once Klinner’s burial date is announced.

In an official memo issued Tuesday, Ivey said, “To honor these brave military personnel who gave their lives in service to our country, I am directing all flags be lowered on the day of interment of Alabama native Major John A. Klinner.”

The governor’s office said the directive will be updated once Klinner’s interment date is announced, which has not yet been publicly released as of Tuesday.

Major Klinner is survived by his wife, Libby, and their three young sons.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

As a prelude to this year’s Power & Influence Top 50 list, launching April 1 in a special 15th anniversary year for Yellowhammer News, we are proud to continue a tradition that asks an important question in Alabama’s political landscape: Who’s Next?

Year after year, Power & Influence offers the most candid insight into the top 50 influential leaders moving the needle in Montgomery across business, politics and public service — leveraging their influence to the benefit of Alabama.

RELATED: 2025 Power & Influence: Who’s Next? / 2024 Power & Influence: Who’s Next?

Today, we’re directing that insight into the next generation of Alabama leaders. The eleven individuals below are described in a quote from leaders speaking to their impact, effectiveness, and upward trajectory. They are each well on their way to running the state.

Emory Cox

Special Assistant to the President for International Economic Relations

“I’m incredibly proud to see Emory receive this honor, but in no way am I surprised. Emory’s personable nature, vast policy knowledge, and sharp political instincts are far beyond his years.

He proved to be an incredible asset to my office and the State of Alabama during his four years as my Senior Economic Advisor, and is now playing a critical role in helping carry out President Trump’s economic agenda to help all Americans.

From Larry Kudlow to Kevin Hassett, Emory has learned under some of the most brilliant economic leaders in American history, while coming into his own as a leader in this space. One of the things I most admire about Emory is that his success has never caused him to forget where he came from.

He is a proud Pell City native and keeps his Alabama values at the forefront of everything he does.

Emory’s dedication to public service and his love for our great state will continue to bring about meaningful results in both Washington, D.C. and Alabama.”

– U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)

Maggie Oliver

Chief Development Officer, Alabama Port Authority

“In leadership and in economic development, vision and strategic focus are essential to driving meaningful growth. Maggie Oliver embodies both.

Throughout her time at the Alabama Port Authority, she has articulated a clear and compelling vision for how the Port has and will serve as a catalyst for economic development across our state – strengthening supply chains, attracting new industry, and expanding opportunities for Alabama businesses.

Maggie has a presence that commands a room, but more importantly, she pairs that presence with thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Alabama’s future.

I am excited to see her continued leadership at the Port and know she will have a positive impact on our state for many years to come.”

– Zeke Smith, Chairman, Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors

Harrison Adams

Alabama Department of Workforce

“As SGA president at the University of Alabama, Harrison Adams learned much about constituents and politics. He had interest early in his career to positively engage in state government policy growth.

He brought that interest and experience to my Senate President Pro Tem office growing strong relationships, while accomplishing much with our team.

He has spent the last 15 months navigating change that is yielding strong outcomes as a Deputy Secretary at the Alabama Department of Workforce.

His calm and efficient demeanor has elevated the department’s profile and effectiveness with all those he interacts with.

Harrison continues to impress me and many in our state as his impact through dedicated and effective public service continues to grow.”

– Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce

Kristin Hellmich

Director of External Communications, Poarch Creek Indians

“Kristin Hellmich leads with intention, listens carefully, and understands the responsibility that comes with telling the story of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

Kristin approaches her work with respect for our history and a clear eye toward the future, ensuring our voice is represented accurately and authentically.

In a fast‑moving and often complicated political environment, her steady approach and sound judgment make a meaningful difference.”

– Stephanie Bryan, Chairwoman and CEO of Poarch Creek Indians

Phillip Johns

Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Farmers Federation

“As chief financial officer, Phillip has transformed the Federation’s accounting, membership and Alfa Health divisions through technology, professional development and expanded services for members and county Federations.

His investment strategies have resulted in record growth for Alabama FarmPAC and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, deepening the organization’s impact in both the political arena and philanthropic efforts such as scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. Last year, Phillip and his team led implementation of Alfa Health Plans, delivering an affordable health care option for members just five months after Gov. Kay Ivey signed the legislation into law.

Phillip is a graduate of the Alfa Leadership Academy, a successful small business owner and newly appointed member of the Dixie Electric Cooperative board of directors.

He is a devoted husband and father and embodies Alfa’s Core 4 Values of Faith, Family, Community and Integrity. Phillip is already building a legacy of leadership within our organization and certainly is deserving of recognition.”

– Paul Pinyan, Executive Director, Alabama Farmers Federation

Lindsey McAdory

CEO and Chief Strategist CBG Strategies, LLC

“Lindsey McAdory has many exceptional attributes. He’s a seasoned political storyteller who can frame the challenges facing our city and develop a plan of action.

He’s a builder — bringing people together, forging strong partnerships, and uniting leaders into coalitions that get things done. And when crisis situations arise, Lindsey excels at mapping out effective solutions.

But what truly sets Lindsey apart is his vision. He sees where Birmingham is headed, and he knows how to carve the path to get there.

He helps us turn potential into promise. Lindsey’s not just thinking about the next step forward; he’s charting the course for what comes next. His eyes are fixated on building a better Birmingham.”

– Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham

Saylor Cuzzort

Communications Director + Alabama Senate Republican Caucus

“It is rare to find a person who possesses true talent, innate instinct and abundant affability in the perfect balance, but one such person is Saylor Cuzzort.

Her love for this state and insatiable work ethic are exceeded only by her ability and her integrity.

Saylor’s impressive intelligence enables her to effectively analyze all facets of a complicated issue, but what most distinguishes her from other capable young people is her ability to act on her knowledge and timely execute the task at hand with grace and poise.

With everything she does, her kindness and humility shine through, and I’m excited to see all the ways in which she impacts our state and our nation for the better — she’s just getting started!”

– Caroleene Dobson, 2026 candidate, Alabama Secretary of State

Annie Dunne Meissner

Director of Finance and Events, Alabama Republican Party

“Annie Meissner has quickly become an invaluable leader on the Alabama Republican Party team.

As Director of Events and Finance, she has been instrumental in strengthening our fundraising efforts while planning and executing events that bring together grassroots supporters, donors, and Republican leaders from across Alabama.

If you’ve attended an ALGOP event recently, you’ve likely seen Annie’s work firsthand. She executed an incredibly successful Trump Victory Dinner featuring Donald Trump Jr., organized a sold-out Candidate Meet & Greet with Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, and leads numerous donor events that keep our supporters engaged.

Annie is absolutely a rising leader in Alabama politics.”

– Shannon Whitt, Chief of Staff, Alabama Republican Party

Anna Grace Gamble

External Affairs Manager, Alabama Rural Electric Association

“Anna Grace has been an exceptional addition to the Electric Cooperative family. She reflects the values and character of our members and has cultivated invaluable relationships with legislators and policymakers that help advance the cooperative mission.

She is thoughtful, professional, and well-regarded by those around her. She brings a steady presence to her work and approaches it with care. Those qualities have helped her make a positive impression early in her career, and will continue to do so.”

– Sean Strickler, Chief Operating Officer, Alabama Rural Electric Association

Scott McClintock

Vice president of Policy and Public Affairs, Business Council of Alabama

“Scott’s recognition on Yellowhammer’s ‘Who’s Next’ list is a well-deserved honor and a testament to the impact he has already made in Alabama’s policy and political landscape.

Scott brings a rare combination of strategic insight, policy expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing pro-growth, pro-business solutions for our state.

His leadership has strengthened BCA’s advocacy efforts and helped ensure the voice of Alabama’s job creators is heard clearly in Montgomery and beyond.

We are proud to see him recognized as one of the rising leaders shaping Alabama’s future.”

– Helena Duncan, President and CEO, Business Council of Alabama

Justice Smyth

Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority

“I couldn’t be more proud to see Justice receive this well-deserved recognition. His strategic thinking, uncompromising integrity, and commitment to results have made a real difference for our community and for economic development across our region.

He approaches every challenge with intelligence and purpose, and he does so with the kind of character that makes everyone around him better.

Justice represents the very best of what a young leader in this field can be, and I am confident his impact on our state will only continue to grow.”

– Tim Parker, III, President & CEO, Parker Towing Company

Yellowhammer News’ 15th Anniversary Power of Service event will be held on April 7, 2026 in Montgomery. The 2026 Power & Influence list will debut its first installment of 10 honorees on April 1, 2026. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact courtney@yellowhammernews.com. 

As she enters the final year of her term as Alabama’s governor, Governor Kay Ivey reflected on the state’s education progress and outlined policy priorities during remarks at a statewide policy forum in Birmingham.

Speaking at the annual forum hosted by the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama (PARCA), Ivey discussed improvements in Alabama’s education system, efforts to reduce student absenteeism and new laws aimed at limiting classroom distractions.

The PARCA forum regularly brings together policymakers, business leaders and education officials to discuss key issues shaping Alabama’s future.

“My goal and all that we do is to make Alabama the best state in which to live, work, and raise a family,” Ivey said. “If we’re successful in that mission, we must ensure that every child in Alabama is afforded a quality education.”

The governor noted the challenges Alabama faced when she first took office in 2017.

“In fourth grade math, then, we ranked dead last,” Ivey said. “In fourth grade reading, we ranked fifth in the nation. We were 49th.”

She pointed to reforms such as the state’s literacy and numeracy initiatives, which were designed to refocus schools on foundational academic skills.

According to Ivey, national assessments now show the state making progress.

“Today, thanks to these students and teachers, Alabama is 32nd in math. And 34th in reading and climbing,” she said.

Ivey also highlighted improvements in student attendance.

“We have dramatically reduced truancy, and today Alabama leads the country,” she said.

She also discussed recent legislation aimed at reducing classroom distractions and limiting screen exposure for younger children.

“Last year we passed the FOCUS Act to remove the distraction of cell phones during instructional time,” Ivey said. “And just this week I signed into law the Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act.”

The law limits screen time for young children in certain early childhood education settings and licensed child care facilities.

At the start of her remarks, Ivey also acknowledged earlier presentations at the forum addressing the opioid crisis and noted progress in reducing overdose deaths in Alabama.

“The fight is far from over, but we are making progress in Alabama,” she said. “From 24 to 25, Alabama saw a 30% decline in overdose death rates.”

She said the progress reflects coordinated efforts through the state’s Opioid Overdose and Addiction Council as well as investments using both general fund dollars and opioid settlement funds.

“We are saving lives,” Ivey said.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, Governor Kay Ivey is encouraging Alabama high school students to compete in the Presidential 1776 Award competition, a national civics challenge offering $250,000 in scholarships.

“This summer, we will celebrate America’s 250th birthday – two and a half centuries of the greatest nation the world has ever known,” Ivey said in the video. “As we mark that milestone, we have a responsibility to prepare the next generation to carry it forward.”

The competition begins with the “Impossible Test,” an online civics exam open to high school students nationwide. Students who perform at the top level in each state advance to regional semifinal rounds, with finalists competing in a nationally broadcast championship in Washington, D.C.

Scholarship prizes totaling $250,000 will be awarded to top competitors.

“That’s why I want you – Alabama high school students – to participate in the Presidential 1776 Award competition, a national civics and American history challenge that puts your knowledge to the test,” Governor Ivey said.

Ivey touted the rocket built in Huntsville that carried man to the moon and ships built in Mobile that protect America’s freedom.

“If there’s one thing history has shown us, it’s this: Never count Alabama out.”

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday issued a state of emergency for 19 northern Alabama counties as winter weather and icy conditions are forecast to impact the region.

“In Alabama, we are no stranger to Mother Nature. However, when it comes to winter weather, we are not as familiar. So, as we head into this weekend, I am urging my fellow Alabamians, especially in the northern part of our state, to stay weather aware,” Ivey said.

“Based on the current forecast, we have a few concerns, including potentially dangerous driving conditions. For those reasons, I have issued a state of emergency for potentially impacted counties.”

RELATED: James Spann: Big rain event for Alabama this weekend, some ice issues

The declaration covers Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker and Winston counties.

Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman said state and local agencies have prepared for potential impacts, with resources positioned across the region.

“Our agency has prepared extensively for winter weather, with resources pre-staged for nearly every potential scenario. Our local EMAs continue to do an excellent job preparing their counties and municipalities through coordinated planning and proactive measures,” Smitherman said. “We are in close communication with our local and state partners and stand ready to provide support as conditions change. As impacts occur, we will assess needs in real time and respond quickly to ensure communities receive the assistance they need.”

The proclamation is effective immediately, allowing state resources to be deployed ahead of the storm.

“I have also directed certain state agencies to position resources so we can prepare and respond effectively. Be sure to tune in to your local meteorologists. Y’all, stay safe, stay warm and stay weather aware,” Ivey said.

Under Alabama law, a state of emergency generally lasts up to 60 days unless terminated earlier by written proclamation.

On Friday, Governor Kay Ivey signed an executive order opting the state into participation with the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit, a newly created program included in President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

Ivey’s order comes just days after she used her State of the State address to reiterate her goal of making Alabama “the most school choice friendly state in the nation.”

It also lands just ahead of National School Choice Week, which begins January 25 nationwide.

“For over a decade, Alabama has been a trailblazer in offering parents and students options to access and afford the best quality education, and soon our families will have even more resources,” said Governor Ivey.

“Beginning with the Alabama Accountability Act passed in 2013, many qualifying students have benefitted from scholarships allowing them to move to a better performing school. Two years ago, I championed and signed Alabama’s universal school choice law, the CHOOSE Act, which provides families with refundable income tax credits for qualifying educational expenses, including tuition, textbooks and after-school programs. And, today, I proudly signed an executive order to further expand Alabama school choice funding options by allowing qualified Alabama families to participate in the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program.”

According to the governor’s office, the federal scholarship program is similar to the Alabama Accountability Act and offers federal tax credits for contributions to approved scholarship granting organizations. Those contributions will then be used to provide scholarships to eligible elementary and secondary education students.

Scholarship funds can be used for tuition, books, fees, supplies, tutoring and special needs at both public, private, and religious schools. CHOOSE Act participants and Alabama Accountability Act recipients may be eligible to participate in the federal scholarship program.

Ivey’s order confirms Alabama’s participation in the Federal Education Tax Credit program and authorizes the Alabama Department of Revenue to administer the program, including certification of eligible participating scholarship programs within the state.

The program will take effect in January 2027.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Governor Kay Ivey kicked off the Alabama Legislature’s 2026 regular session with a message of demonstrable wins for Alabama’s economy and people on Tuesday morning.

Speaking at the Business Council of Alabama’s Tuesday Morning Briefing, Ivey credited BCA, lawmakers, and economic development officials for partnering with her administration on long-term strategy.

“While there’s a tendency to focus on yearly progress, my administration has always played the long game,” Ivey said.

Governor Ivey previewed top-line items expected to be featured prominently in her annual State of the State address later today.

As she did this morning with business leaders, Ivey is expected to share a message to Alabama tonight: As the state enters the final year of the current quadrennium with momentum, there still remains an ambitious to-do list in the next 30 legislative days to keep it going.

“Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair informed me that 2025 was the best year on record for capital investment in Alabama history,” Ivey said. “Over the last 12 months, a landmark $14.6 billion has been invested in Alabama… spanning 234 projects and creating more than 9,000 new jobs.”

“Let me be clear, it’s no coincidence that both record investment years have occurred during that administration. Alabama’s on a roll. These historic gains are no coincidence, no fluke.”

She credited McNair’s leadership and placed the state’s recruiting success in the context of Alabama’s modern industrial transformation — from Mercedes to today’s next wave.

“A month ago, we announced a monumental economic development victory for Alabama: Eli Lilly’s over $6 billion — billion with a ‘B’ dollar investment and an advanced manufacturing operation in Huntsville.”

“This was a national competition and a huge, huge win for the state.”

Lilly’s announcement in December confirmed a plan to invest more than $6 billion in a Huntsville facility producing active pharmaceutical ingredients, with about 450 jobs expected. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

Ivey said workforce development is a necessary companion to economic development.

“Alabama’s most recent unemployment rate is 2.7%… and we have more people working today than ever before… however, still, too many Alabamians are choosing to sit on the sidelines.”

“The new Alabama Department of Workforce, under the direction of Secretary Greg Reed, is laser focused on reversing the persistently low workforce participation… in our state.”

The 2.7% figure matches Alabama’s most recent seasonally adjusted rate for November 2025, which ranked fifth-lowest among states, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Alabama Department of Workforce.

Ivey closed by urging business leaders and lawmakers to keep the pace by viewing the last session in the long-time, dilapidated Alabama State House building, originally built in 1963, as a pivotal year into the next.

“In closing, I’m excited for Alabama’s future… I challenge each of you and our legislature to join me in maintaining our forward momentum.”

“Next year, the legislature will call a beautiful new state house their home. Let’s hope they put it to good use.”

“People of Alabama deserve our very best, so let’s not waste a moment. Let’s get to work.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Governor Kay Ivey announced Monday that Rodney Smith Jr., the Huntsville native behind the nationwide “Raising Men Lawn Care Service” movement, will be one of the special guests recognized during her final State of the State Address tomorrow evening.

As per tradition, she will also host school groups of high-achieving students from across the state. 

“These special guests represent the very best of our state,” Governor Ivey said. 

“An Alabamian who steps up to help veterans, talented students who share their gifts through music and young people proving what is possible in classrooms once written off – good things are happening across our 67 counties, and these guests help tell our success story in Alabama. I am proud to welcome them to the Capitol Tuesday evening as we continue working together to build an even stronger future for our state.”

In 2015, Smith turned one elderly neighbor’s lawn into a viral, 50-state mission that has since impacted the lives of many thousands across the nation and world.

Ivey said she will recognize Smith’s patriotism and service as Alabama prepares to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday in the coming year.

https://x.com/iamrodneysmith/status/2010761056818172230?s=20

That initial act grew into what the governor described as a 50-state effort providing free lawn care for veterans, military families, first responders, and others in need.

5,153 young people have participated in the challenge as of January, the group reports.

“In over 8 countries, we have thousands of kids signing up to make a difference in their community by completing our 50 yard challenge. From our humble beginnings in Huntsville, Alabama, our organization has experienced tremendous growth in just 5 short years. Our steadfast goal has always remained the same: Making a difference, one lawn at a time.”

Since launching in Alabama, Smith’s Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service has become a viral hit across the globe — for a fundamental cause.

Smith credits his early growth to the “50 Yard Challenge” going viral online. Kids joined the challenge by posting a photo and committing to complete 50 free yards for people in need.

Since that time, major outlets including CBS News, Good Morning America, Fox News, and many others have featured Smith’s 50-state mission and the broader push to serve veterans and others who need help at home. Along the way, his work has drawn recognition beyond Alabama — including a proclamation in Reno, Nevada, naming February 8 “Rodney Smith Jr Day.”

Alongside Smith, the governor will recognize students from Booker T. Washington K-8 School in Birmingham, which the state has identified as one of Alabama’s “Turnaround” schools.

Recently, I had several of Governor Kay Ivey’s closest friends and confidantes invite me to visit with them.

Over lunch, they posed the question to me, “Do you think Governor Ivey has become a legacy governor?”

My response was that she has been an outstanding governor, but I need to give some thought to the meaning of a “legacy” governor.

My perception over the years was that a legacy governor left an indelible, particular generational project that could be linked to their name for posterity.

My memory of governors only goes back 60 years and there are only three or four who have left that specific mark.

Our larger-than-life political giant of a governor, James E. “Big Jim” Folsom, paved all the rural roads in the state, so that the small farmers who lived on dirt roads could get their produce they cultivated all year to the market.

His creation of the Farm to Market Road Program gives him a legacy.

Big Jim’s son, Jim Folsom Jr., was governor for only three years, but he created a legacy as the Father of the Automotive Factory Boom in our state.

His landing the Mercedes Plant for Alabama was the impetus for making us the second largest automobile manufacturing state in America. It is now one of the largest economic engines in our state.

Governor George Wallace has numerous legacies. He is the most profound political figure in Alabama history. He was elected governor four times and his wife, Lurleen, another.

That record will never be matched. During those terms, he created a legacy in economic development and roads.

Probably his greatest accomplishment was the creation of the Alabama Community College System, which has become the mainstay for job creation and workforce development in the last decade for our state.

Governor Fob James could be called a legacy governor. He was elected governor two times, and not consecutively. He has the unique distinction of being elected governor in 1978 as a Democrat and again in 1990 as a Republican.

Fob has a legacy as governor of having the businessman’s insight to create a trust fund for the General Fund Budget. During his first term an abundance of oil reserves were discovered off Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

The state sold the oil rights to these reserves for a good amount of money. Fob convinced the legislature to save and preserve the corpus of the oil money in a “rainy day” fund entitled the Heritage Trust Fund. It has been a salvation for the beleaguered General Fund for years.

After several weeks of contemplating the question of whether Kay Ivey is a legacy governor, my response is a resounding and enthusiastic yes. Kay Ivey, in my estimation, is the best governor I have seen in my years of following and writing about Alabama political history.

First, Governor Kay Ivey will have been governor for a decade when she leaves office in January 2027. She will have been governor longer than anyone in state history other than George Wallace.

She is also the first female elected governor in her own right. In addition, she is the first female Republican governor in history.

Most legacy governors have created their places in history through roads, as is the case with Wallace and Big Jim. Therefore, Kay Ivey knew that roads were the economic engine that drives the growth of jobs and economic expansion. She took the bull by the horns early in her tenure and did a masterful job of corralling the votes in the legislature and stewarding the passage of a gasoline tax increase to maintain and sustain our state roads, bridges, and waterways in Alabama.

This legislation, entitled “Rebuild Alabama,” which passed in 2019, has generated over $1 billion in revenue, paving the way for 500 new road and bridge projects reaching all 67 counties. This long overdue generational improvement of our state’s aging roads, bridge system, and state docks is a legacy in itself.

This infrastructure program has led to another Kay Ivey legacy in economic development. Governor Ivey’s administration has spearheaded a record breaking $55 billion in new capital investment and the creation of over 93,000 jobs during her tenure as governor. Furthermore, Governor Ivey’s appointments have been sterling and judicious, especially her judicial appointments.

The most important thing that can be said about Kay Ivey’s decade as Governor is that she has been a steady “Captain” of the Ship of State. She has brought stability, honesty and integrity to Alabama government. She is solid as a rock. Maybe she should be referred to as “Captain Ivey,” rather than “Meemaw.”

Kay Ivey is a legacy governor.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at steve@steveflowers.us.

Governor Kay Ivey highlighted the Moseley family of Wilcox County this month as an example of Alabama families using the CHOOSE Act, the state’s education savings account (ESA) program.

Laura Moseley has two children, Christopher “Cayden,” a 10th grader, and Kynslie, a seventh grader, who attend Wilcox Academy.

“Laura Moseley’s story embodies exactly what the CHOOSE Act was created to support: parents making the best choices for their children,” said Ivey.

“Families like the Moseleys, rooted in their communities and committed to giving their children the best chance to succeed, deserve options. I am proud to see the CHOOSE Act opening doors for families across Alabama, and particularly in my hometown of Camden.”

Born and raised in Camden, Moseley has worked as a bank teller for 17 years and said she values her small-town community and faith. She said she wanted to provide a safe and supportive environment for her children similar to the one she experienced growing up.

Moseley encouraged other parents to consider the program. “The CHOOSE Act is the way to go – my family truly benefitted. This opportunity is a blessing and is here for a reason. I wanted my children to have a personable, hands-on education, and thanks to the CHOOSE Act, they now have an education that works best for them.”

According to the governor’s office, the Moseley household stays busy with the children’s activities. Cayden participates in football, basketball and track, while Kynslie enjoys reading and math.

Moseley added, “Now, the sky is the limit. Governor Ivey opened doors with this opportunity and it shows that she really cares and wants the best for the people of Alabama. The CHOOSE Act is here to help real Alabama families – take a chance and apply.”

The CHOOSE Act allows eligible families to use ESA funds for approved educational expenses, including curriculum, textbooks, workbooks, educational software, computers, school supplies and certain tutoring or school fees.

With assistance from the program, Moseley said she was able to purchase a new computer and printer to support her children’s after-school learning at home.

The Moseleys are among tens of thousands of families statewide receiving support through the CHOOSE Act.

Ivey has recently highlighted families from Montgomery, Dothan and Birmingham and has said she plans to continue sharing examples of families participating in the program.

The CHOOSE Act provides refundable income tax credits, known as education savings accounts, to support eligible K-12 students in Alabama. Funds may be used for tuition, fees and other qualified education expenses at approved education service providers.

According to the state, the renewing family application portal for the 2026–27 academic year opens December 15, 2025, with applications for new families opening January 2, 2026. Both portals close March 31, and award notifications are scheduled for April 15, 2026.

Since applications opened in January 2025, students from every Alabama county have applied for CHOOSE Act funding, totaling 36,873 students.

Funding levels include $7,000 per eligible student enrolled in a participating school and $2,000 per participating student enrolled in a home education program, with a maximum of $4,000 per family.

The Alabama Department of Revenue reported that more than 23,000 students were approved for funding this year, representing more than $124 million in ESAs supporting school choice across the state.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Governor Kay Ivey has appointed Judge Ronald Smith to serve on the Madison County Circuit Court in Alabama’s 23rd Judicial Circuit, while also announcing 17 additional appointments to state boards and commissions.

Judge Smith’s appointment takes effect immediately.

In a statement, Ivey said, “Ron Smith is the right fit for the Madison County Circuit Court bringing more than two decades of successful prosecutorial and general legal practice experience capped by two years behind the bench as District Court Judge. The same high caliber of legal scholarship and judicial temperament that led me to appoint him as District Judge in 2023 make him the best choice to serve Madison County on the Circuit Court.”

Smith began his legal career in 2001 as an assistant district attorney in Madison County before moving into private practice in 2003, where he handled criminal defense, appellate work and juvenile matters. He opened his own practice in 2013 and was appointed District Judge by Ivey in 2023, later becoming Presiding District Judge in 2025.

“It has been an honor and privilege to have served as Madison County District Judge and I am deeply honored and thankful for the opportunity and the trust placed in me by Governor Kay Ivey to serve Madison County as its newest circuit judge,” Smith said.

A Birmingham native, Smith is a graduate of UAB and The University of Alabama School of Law.

In addition to the judicial appointment, Ivey selected 17 individuals for positions across several state entities.

The additional appointments span a range of state boards and commissions, including the State Board of Auctioneers, Motorsports Hall of Fame, Funeral Services Board, Department of Youth Services, State Licensing Board for General Contractors, the Home Builders Licensure Board and the Historic Ironworks Commission.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Eli Lilly and Company announced Tuesday it will invest more than $6 billion to build a major new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Alabama, a blockbuster economic development win that state leaders say will be the largest initial investment in Alabama history.

The project, planned for the Greenbrier South area in Huntsville, will be a next-generation active pharmaceutical ingredient site focused on domestic production of “small molecule synthetic and peptide medicines,” according to the company.

Lilly says the facility is expected to create about 3,450 total jobs, including 3,000 construction jobs and 450 permanent, high-skilled roles such as engineers, scientists, operations personnel and lab technicians.

https://x.com/EliLillyandCo/status/1998493637647253568

“Today’s announcement is tremendous news for Huntsville and for our state. Lilly’s $6 billion investment and the creation of thousands of good-paying jobs will strengthen domestic production of lifesaving medicines,” U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“This commitment further cements ‘Made in Alabama’ manufacturing as the gold standard and will help usher in a new golden age of American manufacturing, right here in Sweet Home Alabama. This project also underscores President Trump’s leadership in driving major domestic investments to revitalize and unleash American manufacturing dominance and biomedical innovation. I’m proud to be a federal partner as we continue working to provide life-changing opportunities for Alabamians so our world-class workforce can continue to power America’s future.”

Lilly said the Huntsville plant will be among its sites that manufacture orforglipron, the company’s oral GLP-1 medicine in development.

The company expects to submit orforglipron to global regulators for obesity by the end of this year, and described the Huntsville site as part of its effort to expand U.S.-based capacity for next-generation medicines.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2032, the company said.

“Huntsville and our entire state have a proven legacy of innovation, and there is no better home for Lilly than right here in Alabama. Our roots in the biosciences industry run deep, and Alabama’s contributions to this burgeoning sector continue,” Governor Kay Ivey said today.

“We are proud to welcome Lilly’s new U.S. manufacturing facility, which we are thrilled is the largest initial investment in our state’s history. No doubt, Alabamians will help Lilly do things that have never been done before, and we will ensure this great company achieves their mission of improving the health and well-being of people all around the country and globe.”

Lilly said it selected the Huntsville location from more than 300 applications, citing workforce strength, infrastructure advantages, and proximity to the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, a Huntsville-based bioscience campus involved in workforce development and research.

The company also pointed to favorable zoning and incentives, as well as the region’s access to utilities and transportation materials.

State lawmakers have spent recent years renewing the landmark Alabama Jobs Act, and enhancing incentives like those being utilized by Eli Lilly, through legislation such as the SEEDs Act, The Game Plan, Working for Alabama, and Powering Growth.

“Huntsville’s track record of science and innovation, supported by advanced manufacturing expertise and a skilled workforce, makes Alabama an ideal location for Lilly to expand domestic manufacturing capacity for next‑generation medicines,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO.

“Today’s investment continues the onshoring of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production, strengthening supply chain resilience and reliable access to medicines for patients in the U.S.”

Nationally, the announcement fits into Lilly’s broader U.S. manufacturing push.

Huntsville site is part of the company’s plan to spend at least $27 billion on four new U.S. manufacturing sites, amid intensifying pressure to produce more medicines domestically rather than relying on overseas supply chains.

And it’s good for the state.

According to leaders, for every dollar Lilly invests there, it estimates up to four dollars in additional local economic activity. Also, for each manufacturing job created, several more will be generated in related sectors like supply chain, logistics and retail.

“Lilly’s decision to invest $6 billion in a next-generation pharmaceutical manufacturing facility here in Huntsville is a tremendous vote of confidence in our people and our future,” Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said.

“Huntsville has long been a place where innovation thrives and hard, ‘impossible’ things get done. We’re proud to welcome Lilly to our community and excited to help shape the next era of breakthrough medicine.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Trump White House’s Rapid Response operation put a national spotlight on something Alabamians learned about in a big way last week: A serious partnership between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

The goal of the ongoing operation is getting illegal operators, especially illegal aliens driving commercial vehicles, and drivers without proper licensing, off Alabama roads.

“82 truck drivers have been detained in Alabama on ICE holds since late October… 12 of those detained did not have a license of any kind,” President Trump’s rapid response channel posted Monday morning.

“Thank you, [Governor Kay Ivey], for helping the Trump Administration make American roads safer!”

https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/1998035603443818985

According to Governor Ivey’s office, ALEA’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit began coordinated enforcement with ICE in late October to expand inspections along Alabama’s major interstate corridors, including high-crash rural interstate areas where heavy truck traffic raises the stakes for everyone on the road.

The early enforcement results reported last week were just the tip of the spear.

• 242 individuals encountered in commercial motor vehicle inspections were referred to ICE for immigration status checks.
• 82 individuals were detained based on immigration status.
• 12 of the 82 detained had no driver’s license of any kind

State officials said most detentions occurred during two targeted “Strike Force” periods from late October to mid-November.

According to ALEA, ICE personnel are embedded into routine commercial vehicle enforcement when available.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Leaders from Washington to Montgomery are praising Alabama Power’s new two-year rate stability plan approved by the Alabama Public Service Commission, calling it a major step toward keeping power affordable as families continue to feel the sting of high prices nationwide.

The PSC voted Tuesday to approve Alabama Power’s proposal to hold several major adjustable rate factors at current levels through 2026 and 2027 to lock in what commissioners described during the meeting as a needed period of predictability for customers.

Following the decision, Governor Kay Ivey said the move helps Alabama stay ahead of the curve on cost of living and economic competitiveness.

“As prices are going up all over the country, this action in Alabama ensures we remain leaders in affordability and reliability,” Governor Ivey wrote.

“I thank the PSC for making wise decisions for the people and businesses that make our state great.”

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U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville said the efforts of the company and commission is both proof and in service of American energy dominance.

“I’m glad to see Alabama Power freezing rates for two years through 2027,” Tuberville (R-Auburn) said. “We have an abundance of riches in Alabama when it comes to energy, including coal, natural gas, hydro and nuclear power plants. But moving forward, we have to focus on cutting regulations.”

“Alabama has the opportunity to lead the nation in recruiting new manufacturing and jobs while focusing on a lower cost of living for our citizens and providing them with more opportunities for a higher standard of living,” he said.

https://x.com/SenTuberville/status/1995957469982454205

The plan approved by the PSC also includes steps designed to protect customers from storm-related cost spikes, such as action involving Alabama Power’s Natural Disaster Reserve to better prepare for future severe weather costs.

The Alabama Farmers Federation, representing over 350,000 member families across all 67 counties, also weighed in on Tuesday’s vote.

“While all Alabamians are dealing with the lingering effects of inflation, farmers have been hit especially hard. Commodity prices are at record lows, and farmers can’t pass along rising production costs,” Federation President Jimmy Parnell said.

“Keeping electricity rates stable through 2027 is good news for all farmers, particularly those who rely on Alabama Power for everything from poultry house ventilation and greenhouse fans to catfish pond aeration and irrigation pumps,” Parnell added.

https://x.com/AlfaFarmers/status/1995962271877792116

Clay Scofield, President and CEO of the Energy Institute of Alabama, and former GOP Majority Leader of the Alabama Senate, said the decision sends a strong signal to households and employers that Alabama is making cost stability a top priority.

“Energy isn’t just important — it is the backbone of Alabama’s economy.”

“By approving this multiyear rate stability plan, the Commission and Alabama Power have taken decisive action to give Alabama families and businesses the certainty they deserve. This is the kind of leadership that keeps Alabama growing.”

“And as always, we are deeply grateful to our utilities and the lineworkers who show up every single day to keep our lights on and our economy moving forward,” Scofield added.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Governor Kay Ivey is urging Alabamians to support their hometown merchants during the holiday shopping season, officially proclaiming Saturday, November 29, 2025, as Small Business Saturday in Alabama.

In her proclamation, Ivey emphasized the pivotal role small businesses play in the state’s economy, noting that Alabama “believes small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the glue that holds communities together.”

The state is home to 465,610 small businesses, accounting for 99.4% of all Alabama businesses and employing 46% of the workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2025 Small Business Profile.

Small businesses also bolster Alabama’s global trade footprint. More than 3,337 Alabama small businesses export goods worldwide, totaling $4.2 billion and accounting for 16.4% of the state’s exports.

Ivey connected Alabama’s focus on entrepreneurship with national efforts to strengthen American-made growth.

“Small businesses are the heart and hustle of Alabama. They create jobs, carry forward family legacies, and bring life to every Main Street from the Shoals to the Gulf of America,” said Governor Ivey. “As President Trump leads our country to renew its focus on American-made growth and cutting burdens for our job creators, Alabama will continue to do our part. I’m proud to proclaim November 29 as Small Business Saturday, and I’m asking Alabamians to pack the house for every shop, restaurant, and service provider from the top to bottom of our state.”

Leaders of small business organizations praised the proclamation, saying it highlights the job-creating power of local entrepreneurs.

“On behalf of our members, I want to thank Governor Ivey for recognizing the many contributions small businesses make to Alabama’s economy,” said Rosemary Elebash, Alabama state director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). “Small businesses make up more than 99 percent of all businesses in our state and employ about 40 percent of our private-sector workforce.”

Elebash highlighted the economic ripple effect of Alabamians shopping locally.

“It’s estimated that 67 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local community. In addition, every dollar spent at a small business creates another 50 cents in local activity because employees spend their paychecks nearby and businesses buy goods and services from other local shops.

“Small Business Saturday is an opportunity to recognize the family-owned shops, restaurants, and service providers that keep Alabama’s economy strong. When Alabamians choose to shop locally, they’re supporting the jobs, services, and investments that keep our communities thriving.”

Janita Stewart, acting district director for the SBA Alabama District Office, encouraged residents to use the kickoff of the holiday shopping season to uplift locally owned stores.

“Thanksgiving is one of the most notable holidays, and most likely, each of us has something, maybe even many things, for which to be thankful,” said Stewart. “Right on the heels of Thanksgiving Day is Black Friday, and the following week will be kicked off with Cyber Monday. In between those days is what has come to be known as ‘Small Business Saturday,’ which kicks off the ‘Season of Small’ starting November 29th, a day set aside to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities.

“With the holiday season upon us and with Alabama small businesses gearing up for it, our local mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, boutiques, independent retailers, service providers and more, can maximize this opportunity by participating in Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small. We each can do our part as consumers by making it a point to support our local small businesses by shopping small.”

Small Business Saturday encourages residents to explore local retailers, dine at family-owned restaurants and invest in locally provided services that fuel community growth.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey is stepping into the fight over the future of Alabama Public Television in a letter issued today, urging the board that oversees the network to slow down, follow the law, and listen to Alabama voters before making any move to cut ties with PBS.

Ivey made it clear to the Alabama Educational Television Commission she’s sympathetic to conservative concerns about PBS, but equally adamant that a drastic, unilateral break can’t be rushed through without a plan or a mandate from the people.

“I am writing about the prospect of APT disaffiliating with PBS,” Governor Ivey writes in the letter.

“As Governor, I have worked hard to promote and defend Alabama values from standing up for the sanctity of human life and our rights to religious liberty to standing against DEI, CRT, and boys playing girls’ sports. For the sake of our people, it is imperative that APT’s programming align with Alabama values.”

“At the same time, I have also strived to ensure that state government operates in an orderly fashion, with due regard for deliberation and collaboration among stakeholders,” Ivey writes.

The commission, which governs APT, has been openly discussing whether Alabama should become the first statewide public TV network to sever its PBS partnership, a move that would pull long-running children’s and educational programming like Sesame Street, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, NOVA, and PBS NewsHour off the air and out of APT’s streaming lineup.

Governor Ivey lays out what her proposal looks like in practice:

“First, the Commission should thoroughly survey Alabama voters to ensure their voices are heard.

Indeed, it is the Commission’s statutory duty to ‘survey, study, and appraise’ the need for a public television plan in Alabama. Such a survey should be performed by a reputable market research firm and be supplemented by actual viewership data. The survey should be specific to Alabama, gauging our citizens’ views not just on the policy reasons for disaffiliation but also on likely next steps for APT should disaffiliation occur. The survey should also be conducted over a sustained period of time. If the Commission is going to disaffiliate from PBS, it should do so in response to trends in voter opinion, not just an isolated snapshot.

Second, the Commission should prepare a thorough disaffiliation plan for public review.

The Commission was established by law ‘for the purpose of making the benefits of educational television available to, and promoting its use by, inhabitants of Alabama.’ Before the Commission votes to disaffiliate with PBS, it should therefore develop a written plan identifying the reasons for such a move and specific ways to ensure that the Commission will continue fulfilling its legal duty.

Such a survey should be performed by a reputable market research firm and be supplemented by actual viewership data. The survey should be specific to Alabama, gauging our citizens’ views not just on the policy reasons for disaffiliation but also on likely next steps for APT should disaffiliation occur. The survey should also be conducted over a sustained period of time. If the Commission is going to disaffiliate from PBS, it should do so in response to trends in voter opinion, not just an isolated snapshot.”

Ivey also urged the commission to make any disaffiliation plan available for public review “for a considerable length of time” and said the panel could even take the proposal to focus groups around the state.

“I am aware of, and even sympathetic to, the belief that maintaining a public television network is not a proper function of government,” Ivey wrote.

“But whether the State should or should not operate public television is a question for our Legislature, and current law makes clear the Commission’s function. Until the Legislature decides otherwise, it is our duty in the executive branch to faithfully implement that law as I have outlined above.”

Some commissioners have pointed to President Donald Trump’s push to end federal support for public broadcasting and the resulting loss of more than $2.8 million in Corporation for Public Broadcasting funds for APT, stemming from the well-established liberal bias in national NPR and PBS news programming.

If the commission ultimately chooses to cut ties, APT would be forced to replace as much as 90% of its programming in a way that prevents its donations and memberships from collapsing.

The Commission’s next meeting is being held tomorrow in Birmingham.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

As the United States nears its 250th year of freedom, Alabama is pausing to honor the men and women whose courage has preserved it. Governor Kay Ivey has officially proclaimed November 5–11, 2025, as Veterans Week across the state, recognizing more than 400,000 veterans who call Alabama home.

“Our veterans represent the very best of America, and here in Alabama, we are proud to stand firmly behind them. We have worked and fought hard to ensure our state remains the most veteran-friendly state in the nation,” said Governor Ivey. “As the daughter of a World War II veteran, this mission is deeply personal to me, just as it is to so many Alabama families whose love of country runs deep.”

Under Ivey’s leadership, Alabama has continued to strengthen programs and services that support veterans and their families—expanding access to benefits, workforce pathways, and healthcare while ensuring veteran priorities remain central in state government.

Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton expressed gratitude for the governor’s commitment and the state’s collective efforts to support those who served.

“Veterans Week in Alabama is a reflection of all we owe to those who’ve served,” Newton said. “I’m grateful to Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature and communities across our state for their shared appreciation and united commitment to honoring our heroes. Together, we’re ensuring that Alabama remains a place where veterans are valued, supported and never forgotten.”

Veterans Week will culminate in the national observance of Veterans Day on November 11, with ceremonies and community events across Alabama celebrating the service members who have safeguarded the nation’s freedoms.

Governor Ivey reflected on the milestone ahead, urging Alabamians to remember the price of liberty. “As our nation prepares to mark its 250th birthday, we are reminded that the freedoms we treasure were secured by generations of brave men and women. May we always honor them. God bless our veterans!”

Alabama’s commitment to its heroes runs deep—an enduring legacy of service, sacrifice, and gratitude that continues to shape the state’s spirit of patriotism and community.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The Alabama State Department of Education launched its 6th annual “Thank Alabama Teachers Month” with an energetic celebration at Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park, honoring teachers statewide while highlighting an urgent need to recruit more educators across the state. The faculty and staff at the elementary school extended a warm welcome to the visitors.

State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey led the event, joined by Vestavia Hills Superintendent Dr. Todd Freeman and other education leaders. Governor Kay Ivey appeared through a video message, offering words of encouragement and officially proclaiming November as Thank Alabama Teachers Month. The kickoff also featured the unveiling of the department’s new “Alabama Achieves” logo — symbolizing the upward momentum of Alabama’s students and educators.

According to the Alabama Daily News, Mackey praised teachers for helping drive what he called Alabama’s “dramatic improvements” in student learning, noting that the state now leads the nation in math recovery, ranks third in reading recovery, and has achieved a record 92% graduation rate, six points above the national average.

But even with those gains, Mackey said the state faces a serious teacher shortage, particularly in elementary, special education, and early-childhood classrooms. At the start of the school year, more than 750 elementary, 350 early-childhood, and 270 special education positions went unfilled by certified teachers. To keep classrooms staffed, more than 3,000 teachers — nearly six percent of the state’s workforce — worked under emergency certificates during the 2023–24 school year, a number six times higher than before the pandemic.

“These shortages are especially severe in high-poverty and rural areas, where recruiting and retaining certified teachers is most difficult,” Mackey said. “If you want to invest in the lives of young people, if you want to do something where you feel every day at the end of the day, ‘I may be tired, but I know I did something that made a difference in people’s lives,’ then be a teacher.”

 WIAT reported that Mackey said the department’s new recruitment campaign aims not only to honor those already in the classroom, but also to encourage more Alabamians to join them, describing the profession as one of the most meaningful ways to serve communities and shape the future.

Governor Kay Ivey, in her proclamation and recorded remarks, praised the work of educators across the state. “Our teachers inspire, challenge and believe in our students every single day,” Ivey said. “As a former teacher myself, I know there’s no greater reward than seeing your students succeed — and no greater gift than a simple, heartfelt ‘thank you.’”

The Alabama Department of Education encouraged residents to share messages of gratitude throughout November using the hashtag #ThankALTeachers, celebrating the men and women who serve as counselors, coaches, mentors, and role models for Alabama’s students.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

In an effort to reduce crime in Montgomery and other large Alabama cities, Governor Kay Ivey has requested the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board to explore ways to strengthen state alcohol rules and regulations.

The governor’s request follows the October 4 downtown Montgomery shooting that left multiple people injured.

In her initial letter, Ivey asked ABC Administrator Curtis Stewart to review Alabama’s alcohol laws, expectations, and requirements—particularly for licensed entities operating in highly populated and heavily traveled areas and during special events where alcohol is sold or consumed after 5 p.m. within Montgomery city limits.

“Public safety is paramount, and the state will continue being proactive to ensure safe communities for our citizens,” Governor Ivey said.

“I appreciate Administrator Stewart evaluating how we can take commonsense steps when it comes to alcohol consumption in entertainment districts across our state. I support the immediate steps he is proposing the ABC Board take, and I look forward to further exploring possible reasonable policy changes to enhance public safety.”

Stewart responded to the governor’s request on October 28 with a detailed letter outlining both immediate and long-term steps aimed at improving public safety through ABC policy adjustments.

Proposed rule and legislative changes

According to Stewart’s letter, the ABC Board will propose new administrative rule changes designed to limit behaviors that may contribute to unsafe environments in entertainment districts. These proposals include:

• Prohibiting package stores within entertainment districts from selling items such as cups or ice that could facilitate off-premises alcohol consumption.
• Limiting the amount of alcohol that special retail licensees can sell for off-premises consumption.

In addition, the Board identified several broader ideas that would require legislative approval. Among them:

• Imposing curfews for minors in entertainment districts.
• Restricting public entities from giving away alcohol at large events in entertainment districts.
• Allowing the state to suspend or terminate an entertainment district if public safety standards are not met.

Stewart said his team has consulted with both state and non-state stakeholders to ensure that proposed reforms are practical and effective across Alabama. He also expressed readiness to work with legislators interested in advancing these reforms during the 2026 legislative session.

The ABC Board’s proposed actions build on previous state initiatives to reduce violent crime, including the ALEA-led Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit and the 2025 Safe Alabama legislative package.

Both efforts have been central to the Ivey administration’s broader push to improve public safety throughout the state.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday welcomed 48 trooper trainees set to graduate from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Training Center, commending their service and emphasizing the state’s commitment to public safety.

Gathered on the steps of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion, the soon-to-be troopers were personally greeted by Ivey, who offered words of gratitude, congratulations, and encouragement before a reception in their honor.

“These new troopers represent the very best of Alabama — men and women who have chosen a life of service, courage and integrity. They stand on the front lines of law and order, and their presence will be felt across all corners of our state as we continue strengthening public safety and law enforcement,” Ivey said.

“I want each of them to know their governor has their backs as they proudly serve and protect the people of Alabama

The 48 members of ALEA Trooper Class 2025-B will officially graduate Wednesday, October 22, at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.

It will be one of the largest graduating classes since before the pandemic, a milestone that underscores Alabama’s focus on increasing trooper presence statewide.

Of the graduates, 41 will join ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division to serve communities across Alabama.

Four will join the Marine Patrol, and three will bolster Protective Services, which safeguards the State Capitol and other key state buildings.

Training began in May for non-certified recruits, with APOST-certified officers joining in August to form one unified class.

Class 2025-B is the first trooper graduation of the year, continuing Ivey’s and ALEA’s priority of ensuring a safer Alabama for all.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The fact that one of the suspects in the mass shooting in Montgomery that killed 2 and injured 12 has already bonded out of jail is outrageous.

Unfortunately, Alabama law does not require attempted murder mass shooters to stay in jail, even though they are clearly both a flight and violence risk.

Both Governor Kay Ivey and Mayor Steven Reed think this is wrong and want everyone to vote to expand Aniah’s Law next May.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Governor Kay Ivey has introduced another Alabama family benefiting from the CHOOSE Act, the state’s education savings account program.

Francisco and Itzel Carbonell of Birmingham have five children — Maria (8th grade), Anna (5th grade), Amalia (1st grade), Juan (K5), and baby Emma. Four of the children attend St. Rose Academy, where their education is supported by the CHOOSE Act.

“For Francisco and Itzel, the CHOOSE Act means their children can learn and thrive in an environment that matches their values and goals,” said Ivey. “Alabama families should not have to compromise on their choice for their children’s education. Thanks to the CHOOSE Act, families like the Carbonells can find the right fit for their children’s future – and that’s something worth celebrating.”

The family indicated that their Catholic faith, commitment to strong morals, and focus on quality education were central to their decision to enroll their children at St. Rose Academy. After moving to Alabama in 2021, they found a school that aligned with those values. When economic pressures threatened to end their time at the school, the CHOOSE Act allowed them to keep their children enrolled — and plan for their youngest to attend in the future.

“We didn’t know it would be this good – thank God – we are blown away,” said Francisco Carbonell. “This has been a relief for our family, and we can now invest in new laptops and other benefits for our children’s continued growth.”

Each of the Carbonell children brings their own personality to the family. Maria, the oldest, enjoys piano and musicals. Anna has a soft spot for animals, while Amalia loves to dance and spend time with friends. Juan shares adventures with his dad, and Emma, the youngest, is just beginning to explore.

“This is for real, Alabama families. We now see a clear path forward, especially looking at our youngest, thanks to the education we can provide for them with the help from the CHOOSE Act,” added Carbonell.

The Carbonells are among tens of thousands of families benefiting from the program. The governor has also highlighted families in Montgomery and Dothan and plans to continue showcasing how the program is affecting lives across the state.

The CHOOSE Act provides refundable income tax credits through education savings accounts for eligible K–12 students. Families can use these funds for tuition, fees and other qualified education expenses at approved education service providers.

Since applications opened in January 2025, more than 36,000 students statewide have applied for the program. Funding includes $7,000 per eligible student in a participating school and $2,000 for students in home education programs, with a $4,000 family cap.

According to the Alabama Department of Revenue, which oversees the program, more than 23,000 students have been approved this year, representing more than $124 million in education savings accounts.

Additional details, including a Parent Guide, FAQ and a list of providers, can be found at www.chooseact.alabama.gov. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year will open in January 2026.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Now that 2 people have been arrested for the mass shooting in Montgomery in early October, it is becoming clear that some questionable decision-making is coming from city hall.

The City of Montgomery promoted free alcohol to events surrounding college football games, which isn’t even necessary and surely is not going to provide cultural enrichment.

Mayor Steven Reed has a crime problem, and pouring free alcohol into the area where crime is doesn’t seem to make much sense.

He needs to get his city under control or ask Governor Kay Ivey to send in the National Guard.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.