Category: <span>Commentary</span>

Recent heavy rains put the spotlight on one of the most common yet extremely difficult to resolve environmental concerns – untreated or partially treated sewage getting into our rivers, lakes and streams. Inflow of rainwater through cracked pipes or faulty manhole covers and infiltration of groundwater through deteriorated sewer lines can overwhelm a sewer system and send sewage into waterways.

The new laws are working. Fewer young people are sent to prison, sentences are shorter, the Habitual Felony Offender Act is used less. 

Direct care workers may help their clients dress, bathe, eat, and go to the bathroom, and they may assist with many other household needs.  If it weren’t for direct care workers, many seniors and people with disabilities would be unable to stay in their homes. 

On that date in 1215, the Magna Carta was signed, beginning a gradual process of defined individual rights and limiting the power and authority of the British crown. The Declaration of Independence which outlined the colonists’ desire for freedom from the edicts of King George, is a direct descendant of the Magna Carta.

With the passage of the Connect Alabama Act, the Alabama Legislature has effectively made the single most important investment in positioning Alabama to succeed in the 21st century. The Act will assist in expanding affordable, high-speed broadband internet access across the state to the benefit of all Alabamians.

Now, more than ever, we must commit to ensuring that students are reading on grade level by the end of third grade. A critical part of that support is ensuring students move on to fourth grade when ready with the skills they need. Senate Bill 94 would fail students by removing an important last resort measure that ensures a child is better prepared for the rigors of classwork.  

With such a barrage of bills, both passed and pending, it’s easy to be confused, especially by various versions of legislation dealing with seemingly related topics.

Everyone has a Bud story, or perhaps a dozen, and I can’t think of a better way to convey how meaningful his legacy is than by telling my own.

Despite the dangers, the trucking industry remains resilient during this pandemic at every stage. During the early weeks of the outbreak, America’s 3.6 million truck drivers ensured stores were stocked, hospitals were supplied, and first responders were equipped. While some Americans have taken steps to show their appreciation for truck drivers, most do not realize how essential the industry is to their daily lives until a crisis hits. 

One emerging theme in the Legislature this year is lawmakers pushing proposals which would alter, undo or turn upside down the state policies and procedures that have irritated them over the last year or so.