Mary Claire Wooten

Mary Claire is a reporter. You can reach her at [email protected].

Legislature

House passes bill that will limit state environmental regulations

The House approved SB71, locking state environmental regulations to federal standards, despite Democratic opposition and concerns about public health protections.

February 18, 2026

Commission hears debate on proposed toxicity standards updates

The Alabama Environmental Management Commission heard from environmental advocates and industry leaders about the proposed rule changes.

February 17, 2026

House pulls PSC appointment bill amid Senate uncertainty

The House of Representatives pulled a bill to appoint PSC members amid uncertain Senate support and intensified constituent concerns

February 13, 2026

House committee considers bill to deny bail based on immigration status

The House Judiciary Committee debated a bill to deny bail for undocumented defendants charged with violent crimes.

February 12, 2026

Bill allowing removal of library board members advances out of the Senate

The Senate passed a bill allowing local governments to remove library board members, sparking debate over politicization and local control.

February 11, 2026

House advances bill removing credibility standard for terrorist threats

The House approved HB188, easing prosecution of hoax threats by removing the credible threat standard for second-degree charges.

February 10, 2026

Lawmakers advance bill tying environmental rules to federal standards

The Alabama House Agriculture and Forestry Committee advanced a bill limiting state environmental rules to federal standards.

February 6, 2026

Lawmakers advance Safe Street Act targeting DUI deaths

The House Judiciary Committee advanced a bill to increase penalties for DUI-related deaths and authorize restitution for victims' families.

February 5, 2026

House committee advances campus chaplain support bill

A House committee advanced a bill to allow local school boards to permit campus chaplains to provide voluntary support services for educators.

February 5, 2026

Senate advances bill limiting environmental rules beyond federal standards

Alabama Senate passed SB71, limiting state environmental rules to federal standards despite Democratic warnings about reduced protections for certain communities.

February 4, 2026