Mary Claire Wooten

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

Legislature

Senate committee OKs church disruption penalties bill

The Senate County and Municipal Government Committee advanced a bill creating felony penalties and civil remedies for intentionally disrupting religious services

March 4, 2026

Boyd urges clemency for Sonny Burton prior to his execution

Gubernatorial candidate Will Boyd called for clemency for Sonny Burton, arguing Alabama’s felony murder law produced an unjust death sentence.

March 3, 2026

Bill to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screenings heads to Ivey’s desk

The Alabama Senate advanced a bill eliminating cost-sharing for breast cancer screenings, and the measure now heads to Governor Kay Ivey.

February 27, 2026

House committee debates school prayer amendment, holds bill

The House Education Policy Committee delayed the proposed constitutional amendment on school prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance after lawmakers raised funding and implementation concerns.

February 26, 2026

Stan Cooke exits race for ALGOP chairmanship

Cooke cited family health issues and endorsed Representative Scott Stadthagen for ALGOP chairman.

February 26, 2026

Senate approves bill to create central office for professional licensing boards

State senators passed a measure authorizing a central office to manage administrative tasks for Alabama’s occupational and professional licensing boards.

February 25, 2026

Alabama bill would prioritize victim restitution over court fees

HB481 would require restitution to victims be paid before court fines, fees and costs in Alabama criminal cases.

February 24, 2026

Alabama Senate passes bill to prohibit comprehensive sex ed

The Alabama Senate passed a bill requiring sexual risk avoidance education and prohibiting comprehensive sex education.

February 20, 2026

House committee debates ambulance reimbursement mandate bill

The House Ways and Means General Fund Committee heard proponents and opponents of a bill that would impose reimbursement requirements.

February 19, 2026

Lawmakers advance farm energy tax exemption bills

Two committees advanced bills to exempt some farm energy use from utility taxes, hoping to ease costs for farmers.

February 19, 2026