Author

Mary Claire Wooten

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

Legislature

Senate unanimously advances bill aligning sickle cell commission with ADPH

The Senate unanimously passed bill extending sickle cell commission and placing it within the Department of Public Health to expand statewide access.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 21, 2026

Marshall remains in GOP primary after Trump announces Moore endorsement

President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of Congressman Barry Moore for Alabama's open U.S. Senate seat on Saturday

Mary Claire Wooten

January 20, 2026

Alabama lawmakers propose changes to state contract review process

Two Alabama bills would tighten emergency exemptions and expand legislative influence over how state contracts are reviewed and approved.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 16, 2026

Senate advances bill elevating assaults on public officials to a felony

The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced a bill making assaults on public officials felonies, adding protections for pharmacists and nurses after debate.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 15, 2026

Rep. Collins education bills advance, targeting literacy, teachers and workforce gaps

Lawmakers advanced three of Collins's education bills expanding literacy programs, addressing teacher shortages, and supporting adults returning to college and work.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 15, 2026

Alabama House Democrats respond to the State of the State address

House Democrats say rising costs, healthcare, education, and taxes are making Alabama increasingly unaffordable for families statewide

Mary Claire Wooten

January 14, 2026

Alabama Arise discusses 2026 legislative priorities before session begins

Alabama Arise outlines 2026 priorities on hunger, education, justice and workers' rights, while urging early advocacy in a fast paced session.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 13, 2026

Alabama approves $6.48 million in school safety mapping, software contracts

State legislators approved contracts for a statewide school safety software platform and detailed digital mapping, advancing the 2024 School Security Act.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 9, 2026

Birmingham City Council approves legislative priorities for 2026 session

Birmingham is asking lawmakers for expanded authority to combat blight, penalize neglectful property owners and support community development.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 8, 2026

Alabama attorney general candidates release December campaign finance reports

December finance reports show Mitchell outraised rivals, Robertson led PAC donations and Casey raised comparatively little in the Alabama attorney general race.

Mary Claire Wooten

January 7, 2026