Taxpayer rebates coming in 30 days
On Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey announced that Alabama taxpayers will receive their one-time tax rebates beginning on December 1. Ivey first announced her plan to utilize Alabama’s historic budget surplus to provide a tax rebate to working Alabama families during her 2023 State of the State Address. “This is the people’s money, and it’s only right, while acknowledging we are recording revenues far exceeding normal and sustainable levels, we give a fair share of this money directly back to the people of Alabama,” Gov. Ivey said. The Alabama Department of Revenue (ALDOR) will issue the rebates beginning December 1, 2023. “From the very beginning, it has been my belief that it is the responsibility of government to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars while actively looking for ways to support citizens through tough times,” said Gov. Ivey. “Our country is in the midst of tough times, and Alabama families from all walks of life are unfortunately seeing that their paychecks aren’t going as far as they once did. Thanks to our unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility, one-time tax rebates will be with our hard-working Alabamians in time for the holidays.” To qualify for the rebates, taxpayers must have filed a 2021 Individual Income Tax return, which ALDOR received on or before October 17, 2022. Non-residents, estates or trusts, or anyone who was claimed as a dependent during the 2021 tax year do not qualify. State Senator Greg Reed (R-Jasper) is the Senate President Pro Tempore. “The resilience of hardworking Alabamians and conservative fiscal policies passed by the Legislature have made our state economy strong,” said President Pro Tem. Reed. “With a strong state economy built on investment in Alabama’s future, we are equipped to be in a healthy economic position as a state for years to come. Because we are in such a strong economic position as a state, it is our job as responsible stewards of taxpayer money to return money to the people of Alabama through this rebate during the holiday season.” The amount of each rebate is based on the qualified taxpayer’s filing status: Single and married people who file separately can expect a $150 one-time rebate. Married couples who file jointly can expect to receive $300. “Inflation has hit our state hard in recent years,” said Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro). “These rebates will return some dollars back to the taxpayers and provide relief to help ease that inflationary burden.” Qualified taxpayers can expect to receive their rebate based on how they received their 2021 tax year refund, by direct deposit or paper check. For qualified taxpayers who did not receive a 2021 tax year refund, the rebate can be expected by paper check. Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) is the Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives. “In recent years, we’ve witnessed federal spending spiraling out of control, resulting in some of the highest inflation rates in decades,” said Speaker Ledbetter. “This has had a tangible impact on families in our state. The Alabama House worked hand-in-glove with the governor to help ease that burden.” “The Alabama Legislature worked hard with the governor this year to put money back in people’s pockets,” said House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (R-Huntsville). These tax rebates are just in time for the holidays and can help make the season a little brighter for Alabama families.” The rebates will not be taxable for Alabama income tax purposes. Ivey had originally wanted a more significant rebate. The version of the budget that passed out of the Senate included no rebate but did include tax cuts. The Alabama House of Representatives restored the rebate, and the 2024 budget that went into effect on October 1 includes tax rebates and tax cuts. For many families, this rebate could pay for their Christmas. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Steve Livingston elected new Senate Majority Leader, replacing Clay Scofield
On Monday, Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed (R-Jasper) announced that State Senator Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) had been elected the new Senate Majority Leader, replacing Sen. Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville), in a meeting of the Republican state senators. “The process of electing Senator Livingston was efficient and effective,” Reed said. “The Republican Caucus emerged with a united decision, and we look forward to continuing to lead Alabama toward guaranteeing the state is a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I am excited about the transformative work we are doing and the goals we will achieve throughout our third quadrennium of leadership.” Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) congratulated Livingston on his election. “In addition to being one of my closest friends for many years, Steve Livingston has been a mentor of mine since the first moment I joined the House and a strong leader whose example I respect deeply,” said Ledbetter. “Sen. Livingston is a man of strong convictions and conservative beliefs, and he will lead his colleagues with the fairness, strength, and common sense that are his trademarks.” As was reported by Alabama Today, Sen. Scofield resigned from the Senate on Monday. “I have resigned from the Senate to become the Executive Vice President of the Business Council of Alabama,” Scofield wrote in a letter. This decision was one of the hardest that I have ever had to make, and with any decision of this magnitude, I involved a lot of prayer and talked it over with family and friends. If I didn’t love serving you, the decision would have been easy. It’s a dream job with an organization whose mission I strongly believe in. I have always supported policies that make Alabama more business-friendly because if we have healthy businesses, they can create more high-paying jobs. As President Ronald Reagan said: “I believe the best social program is a job.” This new job will allow me to continue my mission to make Alabama the most business/job-friendly state in the nation. “I also want to thank Senator Scofield for his unwavering dedication to the state of Alabama during his term as Majority Leader and tenure in the Alabama Senate,” Reed said. “After entering the Senate together nearly 14 years ago, Senator Scofield has proven himself to be an enduring friend, an exceptional leader, and a true champion for the people of Alabama. We wish Senator Scofield well in his future endeavors.” The Majority Leader is the second most powerful member of the Senate, behind the President Pro Tem. Next would be the Senate Rules Committee Chairman – Sen. Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia). Livingston represents Jackson, Dekalb, and Madison counties in the Alabama Senate, To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Anthony Daniels and Nathaniel Ledbetter denounce terror attacks on Israel
Over the weekend, Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville) and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) released statements condemning the horrific attacks on the people of Israel that occurred on Saturday. Minority Leader Daniels wrote on Sunday, “On one of the most joyous days in the Jewish calendar, Simchat Torah, Hamas militants launched an unprovoked, surprise attack on Israel leaving hundreds and, thousands wounded, and a region that is now plunged into war. This is terrorism, plain and simple. It cannot be tolerated and should be condemned by every member of the international community.” “My heart goes out to the thousands of families whose lives have been shattered by this brutal, cowardly attack. I share their grief and sorrow for all the innocent souls, including children and the elderly, who have been violently killed, injured, and kidnapped,” Daniels said. “I am further outraged by reports of innocent people being held hostage by Hamas and I pray for their immediate and safe return. As Americans, we love freedom, value peace, and support the right of free, peaceful people to defend themselves against unwarranted, unjust, and inhumane aggression. I stand in solidarity with the people of Israel and strongly condemn this horrific act of war and terrorism.” On Saturday, Speaker Ledbetter released a statement following the air, sea, and ground attacks launched by Palestinian militants at dawn that day. “For the past 80 years, Alabama has supported the nation of Israel, and we reaffirm our commitment today following the unprovoked surprise attacks launched by Palestinian Hamas militants,” Ledbetter said. “Alabamians continue to stand tall with our nation’s strongest and most loyal Middle Eastern ally, and our prayers of support go out to the Israeli military forces, the nation’s leaders, and all of those who lost family, friends, and neighbors to the senseless Palestinian violence.” Israel has had widespread bipartisan support from the Alabama Legislature even before its founding. “The Alabama Legislature has passed dozens of joint resolutions over the decades outlining our state’s bond with Israel, and our support for the nation, its people, and its continuing struggle to live peacefully in an often chaotic part of the world grows even stronger when events such as this occur,” Ledbetter concluded. Israel has been struck by thousands of rockets fired from Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Hundreds of heavily armed Hamas commandos breached the Israeli border, slaughtering Israelis in their homes. A music festival and two military bases were specifically targeted for assault. CNN is reporting that dozens of Israelis have been taken captive and are now in various parts of Hamas-controlled Gaza. Israel has declared war – the first time since 1973 and has begun a counteroffensive. Over 700 Israelis are believed to be killed and another 2,000 wounded. Americans are believed to be among the dead and wounded. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter appoints House Members to serve on a study commission evaluating Alabama’s labor force participation
Alabama has the lowest unemployment rate in state history. There are job openings all over the state that businesses and governments cannot fill, yet the state has one of the country’s worst labor force participation rates. That Alabamians are choosing to stay home rather than join the booming economy has increasingly perplexed state leaders. “Despite having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and a record number of Alabamians working, the percentage of Alabamians participating in the labor force is lower than almost any other state,” Governor Kay Ivey wrote recently. “While we are increasing that by the tens of thousands, we have to change this statistic. Getting folks off the sidelines and into the labor force is my next priority.” On Monday, Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter announced members of the Alabama House of Representatives that will serve on an ad hoc committee studying Alabama’s labor force participation rates and identifying barriers to workforce entry. “Alabama is witnessing record-breaking economic growth and historically low unemployment rates,” Ledbetter said. “Despite these numbers, in Alabama, there are roughly 140,000 job openings and, at the same time, 48,834 unemployed workers across our state. That means we are lacking nearly 100,000 workers over 16 years old, which puts our labor force participation rate at a mere 57 percent—one of the lowest rates in the entire country.” The House members appointed to serve on the study commission will be Rep. Reed Ingram (R–Pike Road), who will serve as the Chairman of the Committee. Rep. Danny Garrett (R–Trussville); Rep. Donna Givens (R–Robersdale); House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (D–Huntsville); Rep. James Lomax (R–Huntsville); Rep. Barbara Drummond (D–Mobile); Rep. Mike Kirkland (R–Scottsboro); Rep. Bill Lamb (R–Tuscaloosa); Rep. Kelvin Lawrence (D–Hayneville); Rep. Curtis Travis (D–Tuscaloosa); Rep. Chris Pringle (R–Mobile); Rep. Matt Woods (R–Jasper); Rep. Wes Kitchens (R–Guntersville); Rep. Jim Carns (R–Birmingham); and House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R–Hartselle). “Over the coming months, it will be imperative for this group to build on the progress of, and collaborate with, existing entities such as the Lt. Governor’s Commission on 21st Century Workforce, the Alabama Community College System, Alabama higher-education institutions, and essential stakeholders across the private sector,” Ledbetter said. The study commission is expected to address areas including extending adequate childcare to families, examining the correlation between productivity growth and labor output, ensuring wages and salaries are competitive, addressing workforce housing concerns, and offering improved and more expansive mental health programs and services to citizens. “An insufficiency of resources such as these creates barriers to workforce entry as much as an absence of quality education,” Ledbetter postulated. The study commission is slated to host their first meeting on Thursday, October 5, at 10:00 a.m. in room 617 of the Alabama State House. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Nathaniel Ledbetter announces House members who will serve on labor force participation study
With unemployment still sitting at a record low of 2.1%, the state is looking for ways to increase the number of Alabamians in the workforce. Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter announced on Monday key House members that will serve on an ad hoc committee studying Alabama’s labor force participation rates and identifying barriers to workforce entry. In July, Gov. Kay Ivey said labor force participation was a top priority. “Despite having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and a record number of Alabamians working, the percentage of Alabamians participating in the labor force is lower than almost any other state,” Gov. Ivey wrote in an op-ed. “While we are increasing that by the tens of thousands, we have to change this statistic. Getting folks off the sidelines and into the labor force is my next priority.” In September, Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington announced that Alabama’s Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) rose only slightly in August to 57.0%. This is up from last August’s rate of 56.9%. “Alabama is witnessing record-breaking economic growth and historically low unemployment rates,” Ledbetter said in a press release. “Despite these numbers, in Alabama, there are roughly 140,000 job openings and, at the same time, 48,834 unemployed workers across our state. That means we are lacking nearly 100,000 workers over 16 years old, which puts our labor force participation rate at a mere 57 percent—one of the lowest rates in the entire country.” “Yet again, we are announcing record-breaking economic statistics this month,” said Secretary Washington. “While our labor force participation rate remained unchanged, we are continuing to work with marginalized groups to get them into our labor force.” The House Members serving on the study commission will be Rep. Reed Ingram (R–Pike Road) – Chairman; Rep. Danny Garrett (R–Trussville); Rep. Donna Givens (R–Robersdale); Rep. Anthony Daniels (D–Huntsville); Rep. James Lomax (R–Huntsville); Rep. Barbara Drummond (D–Mobile); Rep. Mike Kirkland (R–Scottsboro); Rep. Bill Lamb (R–Tuscaloosa); Rep. Kelvin Lawrence (D–Hayneville); Rep. Curtis Travis (D–Tuscaloosa); Rep. Chris Pringle (R–Mobile); Rep. Matt Woods (R–Jasper); Rep. Wes Kitchens (R–Guntersville); Rep. Jim Carns (R–Birmingham); Rep. Scott Stadthagen (R–Hartselle). “Over the coming months, it will be imperative for this group to build on the progress of, and collaborate with, existing entities such as the Lt. Governor’s Commission on 21st Century Workforce, the Alabama Community College System, Alabama higher-education institutions, and essential stakeholders across the private sector,” stated Ledbetter. Some specific areas the study commission will address are extending adequate childcare to families, examining the correlation between productivity growth and labor output, ensuring wages and salaries are competitive, addressing workforce housing concerns, and offering improved and more expansive mental health programs and services. “An insufficiency of resources such as these creates barriers to workforce entry as much as an absence of quality education,” Ledbetter concluded.
Nathaniel Ledbetter supports decision to lease a new Alabama State House
On Tuesday, Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) released a statement supporting a controversial decision by the Legislative Council to agree to lease a new Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) owned statehouse for the legislators. “The significant challenges with the current Alabama State House, ranging from black mold to chronic flooding to outdated electrical systems and countless others, have been well documented by the media and experienced by everyone who utilizes the building,” Ledbetter said in a statement. “Just like the cost of repairing an old, outdated automobile eventually exceeds its value at some point, the Legislative Council has determined that the significant funding necessary to update the dilapidated Alabama State House would be better spent by investing in a new one.” The decision to do a lease build agreement with RSA instead of building a new statehouse has been criticized even by some Legislators. Ledbetter supports the decision to sign a lease-to-own agreement with the RSA. “Because of sky-high interest rates, entering into a lease-to-own agreement and allowing the Retirement Systems of Alabama to manage the construction component of this project offers the most common-sense fiscal option for taxpayers,” Ledbetter claimed. Ledbetter insisted that the public will benefit from larger committee rooms and greater public access to the building. “A new State House will provide much-needed public access and adequate space for Alabama’s press—allowing more opportunities for Alabamians to attend legislative meetings, have input in important debates, and let their voices be heard on the issues that matter to them most,” Ledbetter said. The current Alabama State House was built 60 years ago as the Alabama Highway Department Building. Originally, the Legislature met in the historic 1859 Capital Building. There are chambers for both the House and the Senate there, as well as committee rooms. In the mid-1980s, the historic facility needed to be renovated. Ostensibly to prepare for the lengthy repairs to the Capitol Building, the old Highway Department Building was transformed into a statehouse with Senate chambers on the Seventh floor and the House chambers on the fifth floor. The Legislature – now with vastly improved office space – never moved back to the Capitol Building. They like the Supreme Court, like having their own building. The Alabama State House has not aged well, and the periodic mold and flooding issues combined with the cramped committee rooms have made the day-to-day operations of the aging facility difficult at times. Critics of the method that this is being financed argue that it will cost far more in the long run to lease-to-own than if the Legislature had simply built the building by cutting state budgets and paying for it with cash. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com
Alabama House Democratic Caucus applaud court ruling; say “fair elections begin with fair maps”
On Wednesday, the Alabama House Democratic Caucus released a statement applauding Tuesday’s federal court decision to appoint a special master to draw a new Alabama congressional map – jettisoning the partisan map that Alabama’s Republican supermajority in the Legislature passed in a July special session over the objections of Democrats. “Today’s ruling is a victory for Alabama voters,” Alabama’s Democratic Legislators wrote. “The federal district court’s decision to reject the “Livingston 3” map affirms the voting rights of all Alabama citizens.” “We expect that the new map drawn by the court-appointed cartographer will fairly and accurately represent Alabama while complying with Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act,” the Legislators continued. “Although today is a victory, we must remain vigilant. The Alabama Attorney General and other state elected officials have blatantly and willfully declared that they plan to challenge this new map; and will not rest until Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is completely dismantled. That is why we will continue to fight to defend the freedom to vote, and we will work tirelessly to secure fair representation for all Alabama voters.” “No matter the final outcome, today and this entire redistricting battle is a poignant reminder of just how important it is for all eligible voters to exercise the freedom to vote,” the AHDC continued. “Your vote is your voice. While we hope that the court’s map will provide an opportunity for Alabama Black voters to elect the candidate of their choice, it will only be effective if voters show up to the polls. During the 2022 Alabama general election, only 38.5% of voters cast a ballot. Defending fair maps in court is only one half of the battle. The other half is increasing voter participation by removing unnecessary obstacles from the election process. As we continue this fight, the Alabama House Democratic Caucus is also striving to make voting easier and more accessible while maintaining the safety, security, and integrity of Alabama’s election process.” “Fair elections begin with fair maps – maps that help ensure that voters have the ability to elect the candidate of their choice,” the AHDC concluded. In June, the three-judge panel ordered the Legislature to prepare a new congressional redistricting map that complied with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and create two Black majority congressional districts “or something close to it.” Instead of complying with the court’s order, the Republicans just tweaked their 2021 redistricting map so that Alabama’s Second Congressional District increased from 30% Black voters to 39.9% Black voters. On Tuesday, the judges chastised the state for failing to follow the court’s orders. Speaker of the Alabama House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) released a statement defending the actions of the Legislature. “The legislature worked together to meet the court’s vague requirements, so today’s ruling is disappointing,” Speaker Ledbetter said on Twitter. “Above all, it’s frustrating that the court chooses to legislate when the Alabama Legislature knows our citizens, hometowns, and communities better than any federal judge.” The Alabama Attorney General’s office has announced plans to appeal the ruling and take the case to the Supreme Court. The Alabama House Democratic Caucus made up just 28 of the 105 seats in the Alabama House of Representatives during the last legislative regular session. There are presently three vacancies in the House: one Democratic and two Republican. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
State Rep. David Cole arrested for voter fraud
On Tuesday, State Representative David Cole (R-Huntsville) was arrested on charges of voting at an unauthorized voting location. Tuesday’s arrest is part of a lengthy investigation of Cole’s residency. Investigators are conducting a probe into whether or not Cole actually lives in the district that he represents – District 10. Under Alabama law, you must vote at the polling place you are assigned based on residency. Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) issued a statement on Tuesday following the arrest. “This afternoon, the Speaker’s Office became aware of David Cole’s arrest on the charge of fraud—voting at an unauthorized location,” Speaker Ledbetter said. “As this is an ongoing investigation, we are still waiting to learn more details as they become available.” “In recent years, the Alabama House has prioritized legislation that promotes election integrity, and we believe that any allegation of fraud must be addressed regardless of the party, public official, or candidate involved,” Ledbetter continued. “Alabamians may remain confident that their elections are conducted honestly, their votes are cast and counted fairly, and their ballot boxes are secure. Now, it is up to a court of law to determine the validity of the allegations Cole is facing, and I anticipate Alabama’s election laws will withstand their true intent.” His election opponents brought the matter up before the November election, but Cole, the Republican nominee, won anyway. Libertarian Elijah Boyd has brought a pending legal action against Cole, and there are media reports that authorities do believe that there may be merit to the accusations. Cole, a doctor, owns a big house outside of the district. He claims to rent another house in the district, but he apparently never sold the home that he owns, and his critics maintain that he and his wife do not live at the address he wrote on his qualifying papers. Cole’s tenure in the Legislature has been overshadowed by the looming residency litigation. Cole was reportedly booked into the Madison County Jail, where he is being held on a $2,500 bond. Cole serves as Medical Director of Occupational Health Group. He and his wife, Melanie, have three children. They are members of First Baptist Church of Huntsville and St. John the Baptist Church in Madison. David is a graduate of Arkansas State University and received his Doctorate Degree in Medical Services from the University of Arkansas. If convicted, Cole would be the second member of the Alabama House of Representatives convicted of crimes this year. The other being former State Rep. Fred Plump (D-Birmingham). Cole, like Plump, was elected for the first time in 2022. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter named chair-elect of the Council of State Governments Southern Office
Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) was unanimously elected to serve as the 2023-2024 chair-elect of CSG South on July 11, 2023, at the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) in Charleston, South Carolina. As chair-elect, Speaker Ledbetter will assist incoming chair, West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair, in guiding CSG South during the coming year. He also will chair the 79th SLC Annual Meeting, to be held in Alabama in the summer of 2025. “I am proud to welcome legislators, government staff, and their guests from across the Southern region to Alabama and showcase our state’s unparalleled southern charm and hospitality,” said Rep. Ledbetter. “The purpose of this meeting is to provide Southern state lawmakers with the opportunity to work together to create more effective public policy so that we may better serve our home states.” Alabama most recently hosted the SLC meeting in 2013 in Mobile, Alabama. The 2025 meeting is expected to draw more than 1,500 attendees from its member states and will feature successful programs and policy initiatives unique to Alabama. Each year, the Southern Leadership Conference brings together experts to discuss opportunities and solutions to challenges facing policymakers and staff across the region. Ledbetter, age 61, previously served as the Mayor of Rainsville in north Alabama. Ledbetter ran for the Alabama House of Representatives in 2010 but was defeated in the general election. He switched to the Republican Party and was elected in 2014. That turbulent term saw both the Speaker of the House (Mike Hubbard) and House Majority Leader (Mickey Hammons) convicted of corruption charges. In that leadership vacuum, Ledbetter was elevated to Majority Leader as a House freshman. Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon (R-Monrovia) – who succeeded Hubbard – chose not to run for reelection in 2022. Ledbetter was chosen by the House Republican Caucus over veteran lawmaker Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) to be the GOP candidate for Speaker following the November 2022 election – effectively making him the Speaker-elect as the Republicans hold 77 to the 105 seats in the Alabama House of Representatives. Ledbetter was chosen as Speaker by the full House during the organizational session in January without a single dissenting vote. CSG South was established In 1947. The Council of State Governments Southern Office (CSG South) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that supports members in all three branches of state government. The mission of CSG South is to promote and strengthen intergovernmental cooperation among its 15 member states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. Predominantly, this is achieved through the ongoing work of CSG South’s seven standing committees and support groups. Legislative leadership, members, and staff depend on CSG South to identify and analyze solutions for the most prevalent and unique policy issues facing Southern state governments. We facilitate outreach in state capitols, leadership development, staff exchange programs, domestic and international policy delegations, and other efforts to support state policymakers and legislative staff to build stronger, more successful states. The Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) is the largest regional gathering of legislative members and staff. SLC boasts an array of well-established programs—focusing on existing and emerging state government innovations and solutions—providing policymakers and staff diverse opportunities to interact with experts and share their knowledge with colleagues. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Redistricting plan goes to a conference committee
On Friday, the Alabama House of Representatives passed a Republican congressional redistricting plan that it hopes will comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Alabama Senate voted 30 to 0 to non-concur with the House plan. The redistricting plan has been referred to a conference committee to produce a compromise version that is acceptable to both Houses of the Legislature. For redistricting to pass out of the Legislature, the six-member conference committee has to reach a compromise. Then both Houses of the Legislature must vote to concur with the findings of the conference committee. Senate Bill 5 is sponsored by State Senator Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro). The bill was carried in the House of Representatives by State Representative Chris Pringle (R-Mobile). Both Livingston and Pringle have introduced competing versions of the redistricting bill. The version of the bill that passed in the House is the Pringle version, the community of interest plan. Pringle’s plan would redraw Alabama’s Second Congressional District, currently represented by Congressman Barry Moore (R-AL02), to increase the Black voting age population in CD2 from 30% of the population to over 42%. Senate Democrats have introduced multiple plans that would produce two majority-minority districts. Livingston’s competing plan passed out of the Senate on Wednesday. Pringle says that his plan’s CD2 would meet the Supreme Court’s ruling that the state provides an opportunity for Blacks to pick a candidate of their choice. Democrats disagree. “You are giving me an opportunity to lose,” said Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro). “There ain’t no opportunity there for Blacks or Democrats in that district,” said Sen. Rodger Smitherman (D-Birmingham). Democrats maintain that it is necessary for there to be two majority-minority congressional districts for Black voters to have an opportunity to choose their own representation. They also maintain that that is what the court intended. Sen. Merika Coleman (D-Birmingham) said, “I contend that for African Americans to choose the candidate of their choice that we have to have a majority of African-Americans.” “It is irresponsible for the legislature to do what it is doing,” Coleman said. “The court ordered two districts that have 50% African Americans.” “The three-judge panel said that a proper remedy could consist of two majority-minority districts or quite close to it,” said Rep. Artis “A.J.” McCampbell (D-Livingston). The House of Representatives passed SB5 76 to 26. The Senate, in their own debate on redistricting, then voted 30 to 0 to concur with the House version of SB5 and go to a conference committee. Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed (R-Jasper) appointed Sens. Livingston, Smitherman, and Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) to the conference committee. Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) appointed Pringle, Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa), and Chris Sells (R-Greenville) to the conference committee. Both Houses of the Legislature will return on Friday afternoon, presumably to vote on the conference committee report. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Jody Singer announces retirement from NASA
Monday, Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville Director Jody Singer announced her retirement. Joseph Pelfrey will take over as the interim Director of the MSFC while the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) searches for a permanent center director. “From becoming the first female center director at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville to leading her team through the successful Artemis I mission, Jody Singer’s leadership has taken space exploration to new heights,” said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama). “Jody has been a driving force in putting Alabama at the forefront of launch innovation and human spaceflight advancement, continuing a legacy in Huntsville that spans the globe. Alabama is grateful for her 38 years of service and I wish her the very best in her next chapter.” “I know that Marshall Space Flight Center will be in good hands with Joseph Pelfrey as NASA conducts a search for a new center director, and I look forward to the center’s continued contributions to our space exploration under his leadership,” Tuberville added. “During a trailblazing 38-year career at @NASA, Jody Singer has reached for the stars every single day,” said U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Alabama) on Twitter. “Alabama is grateful for her service to our nation and her leadership at @NASA_Marshall. Please join me in wishing her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!” “Congratulations, Jody, on a 38-year long career dedicated to servant leadership, innovation, and the future of space exploration,” said Congressman Dale Strong on Twitter. “Your legacy at @NASA_Marshall will continue to inspire generations to come!” Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) congratulated Singer on her retirement. “I want to congratulate Jody on her retirement and immense contribution to the State of Alabama,” Ledbetter said on Twitter. “Under her guidance, we’re on the cusp of sending more astronauts to the moon, and we are sincerely thankful for her service to our country and our state.” “I wish Jody well during her retirement. And I know individuals at the beginning of their career at NASA – and members of the Artemis Generation who dream of working here – will be inspired by Jody’s service, knowing their contributions can help return NASA astronauts to the Moon and prepare us for crewed missions to Mars,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “And Joseph Pelfrey is no stranger to Marshall, having joined the center two decades ago as an aerospace engineer. Today, he helps guide Marshall’s broad portfolio of human spaceflight, science, and technology development, which supports missions across NASA. We are confident Joseph is prepared to guide Marshall through this transition.” Singer has served as Director of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center since September 2018. Singer is a native of Hartselle, Alabama native, and a University of Alabama graduate who has worked for NASA for four decades. Singer had been the interim Director of MSFC for three months before her appointment by then NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine as MSFC’s 14th Director and the first woman to ever hold that position. MSFC is one of NASA’s largest field installations, with nearly 7,000 on- and near-site civil service contractor employees and an annual budget of approximately $4.5 billion. Before being named the interim Director, she served as deputy director since February 2016, assisting former Director Todd May with the daily management of the center’s workforce operations. Singer first went to work for NASA in 1985 as an intern. Over her career, she has worked in the Space Shuttle program, the canceled Ares program, and the Space Launch System, which will return man to the moon for the first time in over 50 years. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama Republicans reject call for 2nd majority Black district, despite Supreme Court ruling
Alabama Republicans, under orders of the U.S. Supreme Court to redraw congressional districts to give minority voters a greater voice in elections, rejected calls Monday to craft a second majority-Black district and proposed a map that could test what is required by the judge’s directive. Lawmakers must adopt a new map by Friday after the high court in June affirmed a three-judge panel’s ruling that Alabama’s existing congressional map — with a single Black district out of seven statewide — likely violated the Voting Rights Act. In a state where more than one in four residents is Black, the lower court panel had ruled in 2022 that Alabama should have another majority-Black congressional district or something “close to it” so Black voters have the opportunity to “elect a representative of their choice.” Republicans, who have been resistant to creating a certain Democratic district, proposed a map that would increase the percentage of Black voters in the 2nd congressional district from about 30% to nearly 42.5%, wagering that will satisfy the court’s directive. House Speaker Pro Tempore Chris Pringle, who serves as co-chairman of the state redistricting committee, said the proposal complies with the order to provide a district in which Black voters have the “opportunity to elect the representative of their choice.” “The goal here, for me, was to provide an opportunity for African-Americans to be elected to Congress in the second congressional district,” Pringle said. However, the National Redistricting Foundation, one of the groups that backed challenges to the Alabama map, called the proposal “shameful” and said it would be challenged. “It is clear that Alabama Republicans are not serious about doing their job and passing a compliant map, even in light of a landmark Supreme Court decision,” said Marina Jenkins, executive director of the National Redistricting Foundation. She called that a pattern seen throughout the state’s history “where a predominately white and Republican legislature has never done the right thing on its own, but rather has had to be forced to do so by a court.” The Permanent Legislative Committee on Reapportionment approved the proposal in a 14-6 vote that fell along party lines. The proposal was introduced as legislation Monday afternoon as lawmakers convened a special session to adopt a new map by a Friday deadline set by the three-judge panel. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter said he believes the new district will be a swing district that could elect either a Democratic candidate or a Republican. “I think that the models will show that it could go either way, probably. I think all the court’s asked for was a fair chance. I certainly think that map does it. I don’t think there’s any question about that,” Ledbetter said. Democrats accused Republicans of rushing the process and thwarting the court’s directive. Sen. Vivian Davis Figures, a Democrat from Mobile, said the court was clear that the state should create a second majority-Black district or something close to it. “Forty-two percent is not close to 50. In my opinion, 48, 49 is close to 50,” Figures said. She had urged colleagues to adopt a proposal by the plaintiffs in the Supreme Court case that would make the 2nd district 50% Black. Rep. Chris England, a Democrat from Tuscaloosa, said he also doesn’t think the GOP proposal would satisfy the court’s directive. He said Republican lawmakers pushed through their proposal without a public hearing or producing a voter analysis of how the district will perform. Pringle said that information will be available Tuesday. “The map that we adopted, nobody had any input on. There was no public input on it, not subject to a public hearing, and now it’s going to be the map of choice,” England said. Deuel Ross, a lawyer with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund who argued the case before the Supreme Court, said lawmakers have yet to provide the information “necessary to evaluate whether these plans will, in fact, provide Black voters with opportunities to elect their candidates of choice in two districts.” “Any plan with a low Black voting age population does not appear to comply with the Court’s instruction,” Ross wrote in an email. Partisan politics underlies the looming redistricting fight. A higher percentage of Black voters increases the chances that the seat will switch from GOP to Democratic control. Pollster Zac McCrary said predicting a district’s partisan leanings depends on a number of metrics, but “getting a district too far below the mid-40s in terms of Black voter composition could certainly open the door for Republicans.” Republished with the permission of The Associated Press
