Gov. Kay Ivey has issued a state of emergency for all 67 Alabama counties ahead of this weekend’s severe weather. The state of emergency went into effect Friday at 2:00 p.m. AL.com reports it will remain in effect for the duration of the state of emergency.
Gov. Ivey is pushing for state lawmakers to pass bills banning cell phones in public schools and granting teachers and state employees parental leave. A bill known as the “Focus Act” would require local boards of education to ban student cell phone use during instructional time. Exemptions are provided under some circumstances, such as life-threatening situations or for educational purposes under supervision. The Alabama Daily News reports Ivey also supports two companion bills currently making their way through the Legislature that would grant eight weeks of fully paid maternity leave to female teachers and state employees, and two weeks to male teachers and state employees.
A bill in the Alabama House would require students to start their school day by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and then saying a prayer. Alabama House Bill 231 defines the type of prayer as needing to be “consistent with Judeo-Christian values.” According to the bill, a school could lose 25% of its funding from the state if students don’t comply. WHNT TV reports Interfaith Alliance leaders spoke in Montgomery this month, concerned that the bill would violate the freedom of religion guaranteed by the First Amendment.
Census data released this week shows that over one-third of Alabama’s population growth took place in two northern counties. AL.com reports Limestone County’s population increased 3.6% in 2024, making it the fastest-growing county in the state last year. Madison County added the most people in raw numbers, an estimated 9,464. Baldwin County, home to Alabama’s beaches, was the state’s second fastest growing county. It recorded a growth rate of 2.9%. Madison County was Alabama’s third fastest-growing, up 2.3%.
Alabama’s road conditions have been recognized among the safest across the country. According to a study done by the Consumer Affairs Research Team, Alabama’s road conditions rank second overall in the country with 96.5% of its urban roads and 98.7% of its rural roads in acceptable condition. A news release from the Alabama Department of Transportation notes the ranking comes five years after the Legislature adopted Governor Kay Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama Act, which is administered through ALDOT.
Alabama State Parks has launched its Alabama State Parks Ambassador Program. It’s designed to attract outdoor lovers who want to showcase the state’s natural beauty and inspire others to visit the 21 state parks. WAFF TV reports selected Ambassadors will be invited to document their experiences at the parks through photos and videos, which will be featured on Alabama State Parks social media platforms and other promotions. Ambassadors will receive special merchandise and state parks commemorative items. Anyone interested can submit an online application at www.alapark.com/ambassadors.
Huntsville Animal Services is hosting St. Pitty's Week from March 17-22, offering free adoptions for pit bulls. The event aims to find loving homes for these affectionate dogs, culminating in an 'Adopt-on-the-Spot' event on March 22. from 1 to 3 p.m. at Starbucks in the Village of Providence, located at 20 Town Center Drive NW. Rocket City Now reports staff will be on hand to assist with paperwork and answer any questions,