Economy

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey joined Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama LLC officials at the grand opening of its cylinder head manufacturing plant in Montgomery on Wednesday. The $388 million project has already spurred the creation of 50 jobs. The new plant in Montgomery is the third facility at HMMA to support production of more than 650,000 … Continued

On Wednesday, the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee gave a favorable report to a constitutional amendment that would create a state lottery in Alabama. Gambling is prohibited by the Alabama 1901 Constitution, so passing a lottery requires amending the Constitution. Senate Bill 220 is sponsored by State Sen. Greg Albritton, R-Atmore. The bill was … Continued

On Wednesday, the Senate Tourism Committee gave a favorable report that would allow fantasy sports contests to be played legally in Alabama. House Bill 361 is sponsored by State Rep. Kyle South, R-Fayette. During the House debate, South said that fantasy sports contest are games of skill and are not games of chance. Gambling is … Continued

U.S. Senator Doug Jones, D-Alabama, introduced new legislation to offer financial and technical support to farmers and producers impacted by President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade war with China. The Assistance for Farmers Harmed by Tariffs on Exports Act would offer Trade Adjustment Assistance to farmers and producers hurt by tariffs implemented by China. “I agree … Continued

The Local Legislation Committee held a well-attended public hearing Tuesday on a local bill dealing with Greene County. HB545 would clarify that electronic bingo is legal in Greene County and would establish a five-member gaming commission to regulate the electronic bingo business in Greene County. House Bill 545 is sponsored by State Rep. Artis “A.J.” … Continued

U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Alabama, announced that five local airports across the state of Alabama will receive $20.8 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants. The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation for various airport improvements to support infrastructure construction, safety advances, and equipment acquisition. “This FAA funding will significantly improve the functionality, … Continued

The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill Wednesday legalizing fantasy sports contests in Alabama, including daily fantasy games. HB361 is sponsored by State Rep. Kyle South, R-Fayette. State Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Cullman, said this should be passed as a constitutional amendment. South said fantasy sports contest are games of skills and are not games … Continued

The Alabama Department of Commerce released a new report this week showing that the forest industry is having a large impact on rural economies. In 2018, Westervelt Company, Rex Lumber and Great Southern Wood all announced plans for production facilities in Alabama. All combined, over 300 jobs were created at the facilities alone. In 2018, … Continued

Did you know that it’s against the law to braid hair, wash hair or even plant flowers professionally in Alabama without a license? That’s because occupational licensing, originally meant to protect consumers, has gotten way out of hand. A video recently produced by the Alabama Policy Institute illustrates just how ridiculous it has become. Sure, … Continued