Capitol Exchange March 13, 2026

This week Dr. Todd Harris warned about a growing measles crisis driven by declining childhood vaccination rates, noting rising cases in nearby states and the risks of long‑term immune damage from infection. He also emphasized the safety of vaccines, the likely permanence of COVID‑19 as a seasonal illness, and the importance of colorectal cancer screening and healthy nutrition. Gov. Kay Ivey highlighted major education gains and state initiatives, while Mark Colson discussed new trucking safety legislation. Additional updates included TVA’s reliability improvements, legal issues surrounding the Simplified Sales and Use Tax, and various legislative proposals on school practices, SNAP restrictions, and expanded penalties for doxing.
Rep.

Reed Ingram outlined a constitutional amendment requiring the Pledge and permitting voluntary student‑led prayer in schools, along with a bill limiting “luxury” items under SNAP. Rep. Donna Givens discussed enhancing penalties for malicious release of personal information and ongoing conversations about energy rates. Overall, leaders across public health, government, and industry focused on safety, infrastructure, education, and community health.