Mobile Bay Gets a HUGE Win!

The Alabama Legislature just gave Mobile Bay a major victory, voting to ban "mud dumping" – that's the practice of spraying dredged sediment into the bay. Think of it as a big NO to underwater mudslides!

What's the Big Deal?

State Senator Chris Elliott and State Rep. Rhett Marques championed the bill, rightfully concerned about the environmental impact. This "mud dumping" clouds the water and smothers vital marine habitats like oyster beds and seagrasses. Nobody wants that!

Protecting Our Paradise

Elliott emphasized the importance of protecting Mobile Bay: "We have shielded the commercial and sport fishing industries, ensured that our waters remain clean and clear, and protected the important oyster beds, seagrasses, and other aquatic life." He added that it's up to them to keep Baldwin County a "paradise".

A Muddy Situation

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who do the dredging, call this "thin-layer placement," claiming it mimics nature. But Alabama's saying, "Nope, not here!" With a whopping 90 million cubic yards of sediment expected from channel maintenance, this ban is crucial.

Following the Lead

Senator Katie Britt already secured a federal provision requiring 70% of dredged sediment to be used "beneficially." This new state law clarifies that "mud dumping" doesn't count as beneficial in Alabama. Other Gulf states like Florida, Georgia, and Louisiana have similar bans.

What's Next?

The bill now lands on Governor Kay Ivey's desk for her signature. Fingers crossed for a cleaner, clearer Mobile Bay!

Out-of-State Green Groups Eye Alabama's Utility Regs

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! The same eco-activist network that just shook up Georgia's Public Service Commission (PSC) is setting its sights on Alabama. Get ready for a potential showdown over how our utilities are regulated.

The Georgia Playbook: A Shocking Upset

In 2025, Georgia saw a political earthquake. Two Democratic challengers, Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard, trounced Republican incumbents on the PSC by a whopping 24 points each! This in a state where Republicans dominate. What fueled this upset? Money, plain and simple.

Left-leaning groups like Georgia Conservation Voters PAC dropped at least $2.2 million into the races, with the Democratic National Committee (DNC) adding another $100,000. They hired a top-notch Dem consulting firm to run the show.

Following the Money Trail to Alabama

Guess what? An investigation revealed direct links between the funders behind Georgia's PSC shakeup and groups now active right here in Alabama.

One key player is Multiplier, a San Francisco-based organization that's given out over $76 million in grants to progressive groups. Where does Multiplier get its cash? Big names like the Walton Family Foundation, the Breakthrough Energy Foundation, and the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, to the tune of tens of millions.

Multiplier usually stays out of energy policy battles. But starting in 2023, their spending on energy-related causes exploded, reaching a staggering $21.4 million in 2024!

Alabama in the Crosshairs

In 2024 alone, Multiplier gave serious cash to groups operating in Alabama, including:

• $250,000 to Energy Alabama, which is already running some aggressive ad campaigns.
• $500,000 to the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC), whose lawyers are registered to lobby in Alabama.
• $975,000 to the League of Conservation Voters, the parent organization of Georgia Conservation Voters.

The connections run deeper than just money. Key strategists have jumped between organizations targeting utilities in both Georgia and Alabama.

What's the Big Deal?

If Georgia is any indication, Alabama's PSC races could become a battleground for national environmental groups. A relatively small amount of money flipped two long-held Republican seats in Georgia by focusing on a simple message about electricity costs.

The funding is flowing, the lobbyists are registered, and the ads are already running. Is Alabama ready for what's coming?

Big News for Alabama Techies! ASCTE Building a Game-Changing Research Institute!

Get ready, ChumCity! The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE) is about to level up with a brand-new Research Institute! Construction is set to kick off later this year, promising a massive boost to tech and engineering education.

What's the Big Deal?

School officials are calling this institute an Alabama Center for Excellence, and it's one of the first research facilities ever embedded in a secondary school. Think K-12, higher ed, industry, and government all teaming up to supercharge research and get our future workforce ready for cyber tech, AI, and engineering. It's all about keeping Alabama on the cutting edge!

Why is this happening?

ASCTE is committed to Alabama's future. This institute will support the state's growing tech and manufacturing industries, offering:

• Hands-on STEM labs
• Killer training for educators
• Curriculum that aligns with Alabama's educational standards

All this is designed to make advanced tech education available to students and teachers across the state.

Quotes from the Top

Chase Golden, ASCTE’s Chief Technology Officer says, "Our focus is on capacity building, helping schools and districts tackle STEM concepts with confidence. The Research Institute and its Center of Excellence mission allows us to scale that work, connect it to research, and ensure that what works in one classroom or district can work across the state.”

What kind of research?

The institute will dive deep into AI, computing, cyber ranges, and big data. Expect research partnerships, faculty-led studies, student entrepreneurship, and advanced tech finding its way into classrooms.

Teacher Power-Up!

ASCTE is already a big deal for teacher development. The new Research Institute will help expand these efforts. Teachers who've been through ASCTE training say it's a game-changer for their lesson plans.

Workforce Ready

This isn't just for students – ASCTE is partnering with industry to ensure its training programs match the real-world skills needed by employers.

"This new research center positions ASCTE to drive innovation not just within our school, but throughout Alabama’s educational landscape,” said Board Vice Chair Alicia Ryan. “It’s an investment in the future workforce of our state."

New Labs and Expansion!

The institute will have four killer research labs:

• Cyber Test Center
• AI Innovation Center
• Systems Integration Center
• Engineering Life Cycle Center

ASCTE President Matt Massey says that by expanding research capabilities and campus resources, they are making sure students are ready to lead in tomorrow’s tech fields! And that's not all - plans for a new dorm are underway too. The goal is to support a growing and diverse student body.

Alabama Football: A Shell of Its Former Self?

Paul Finebaum, the legendary voice of Alabama sports radio, suggests the Crimson Tide isn't quite the powerhouse it used to be. Even with 10+ win seasons and a CFP appearance, he sees a decline in dominance post-Saban. What do you think, ChumCity faithful?

North Alabama Gets a Job Boost!

Great news for North Alabama! Siemens Energy is expanding, bringing 120 new jobs to the area. Plus, Blue Origin's massive $714 million expansion in Huntsville will add another 105, pushing their total headcount to a whopping 1,600!

Foreign Migration to Alabama Drops Significantly

Foreign migration to Alabama saw a big dip, falling 60% in 2025. Some say this reflects stricter national policies and a perception of increased local enforcement.

Doug Jones Sounds Off on Alabama GOP

Former Senator Doug Jones is accusing the Alabama Republican Party of violating the state constitution. This stems from residency concerns surrounding Senator Tommy Tuberville and Lt. Gov. candidate John Wahl being dismissed.

Absentee Ballot Harvesting Leads to Indictments

A Russell County Grand Jury indicted three individuals on 33 counts related to absentee ballot harvesting. Secretary of State Wes Allen says this sends a clear message against election fraud in Alabama.

Alabama Could Gamble on New Revenue

Senator Merika Coleman is proposing a bill that could bring lottery, casinos, and sports betting to Alabama. The aim? To fund food stamps and other social programs. Would you roll the dice on this, Alabama?

Government Shutdown Averted (For Now)

The government shutdown is over… for now! President Trump signed a bill funding the Department of Homeland Security for about two weeks. The agreement dodged a GOP revolt and resolved funding disputes over immigration enforcement, but another shutdown could be just around the corner.

Dale Jackson is a contributor for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Cloning is Now a No-No in Alabama!

Hold onto your beakers, ChumCity citizens! The Alabama House just gave the thumbs down to human cloning, passing HB111 with a resounding "Nope!"

What's the Deal?

State Rep. Phillip Rigsby (R-Huntsville) spearheaded this bill, making human cloning a Class C felony. That means messing with creating human clones, attempting it, or even shipping stuff around for clone-y purposes is a big no-no.

What's Still Cool?

Don't worry, folks! This doesn't mess with in vitro fertilization, fertility treatments, or other ways to help folks start families. Unless, of course, you're trying to make a mini-me.

Why Now?

Rigsby says it's all about being proactive and valuing life. They just wanna make sure we aren't turning humans into commodities. Smart move, Alabama!

What's Next?

The bill is heading to the Senate next. Stay tuned to see what happens!

Alabama Says "Nein!" to Foreign Cash in Elections

Ever hear about that Swiss billionaire who reportedly slipped nearly $100 million through a shadowy group to meddle in state ballot measures nationwide? We're talking abortion, election stuff, even minimum wage!

Well, Alabama's not having it.

House Passes Bill to Block Foreign Influence

The Alabama House just took a big step to keep that kind of cash out of our elections. State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville) sponsored HB214, a bill that would bar foreign nationals from directly or indirectly donating to any political candidate or PAC in Alabama. Think constitutional amendments, referendums – the whole shebang!

It just sailed through the House and is now headed to the Senate.

Closing the Loopholes

Federal law already bans foreign money in candidate races, but sneaky loopholes have let foreign cash creep into ballot measure campaigns. Not anymore, if Alabama has its way!

"Elections Should Be Decided by Alabamians!"

"Elections should be decided by the people who live, work, and raise their families in this state – not by foreign entities with ulterior financial or political motives," said Rep. Lomax. "This is beyond alarming, and I am proud to have passed legislation that slams the door shut on international dark-money groups seeking to bring their views to our great state."

Alabama's joining a growing posse of states trying to slam this foreign funding loophole shut! This all happened on the ninth day of the 2026 legislative session.

Alabama Lawmakers Aim to Protect Worship Services

Looks like some serious business is brewing down in Montgomery! State Rep. Greg Barnes (R-Jasper) dropped HB363 last week, and it's all about cranking up the penalties for anyone who tries to disrupt a church service. Think protesting, rioting, or just plain old disorderly conduct inside a church could land you in serious hot water.

Senate Backing Emerges

And guess what? The bill just got a major boost! State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) is hopping on board to champion the cause in the Senate. He’s basically saying, "Not on our watch!" when it comes to letting disruptions infiltrate Alabama.

What's in the Bill?

If HB363 passes, even a first-time offender engaging in an unlawful protest at a church could be slapped with a Class C felony. And for repeat offenders? We're talking a mandatory minimum sentence of five years behind bars. Ouch!

Broad Support and Other Legislative Moves

This bill has got some serious backing, with over 50 cosponsors already. It's currently sitting in the Public Safety and Homeland Security committee, so keep an eye on that.

Elliott isn’t stopping there, either. He’s also tackling SB20, which aims to toughen the penalties for assaulting first responders and utility workers. Stay tuned for more updates!

Bruce Pearl Throws Shade at Bama's Bediako Situation

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! It sounds like former Auburn Tigers coach Bruce Pearl has some thoughts on Alabama's recent roster moves, specifically the return of Charles Bediako from the G-League.

Should Bama Face Consequences?

Pearl stirred the pot during an appearance with Dan Dakich, suggesting the NCAA should consider a penalty for Alabama bringing back Bediako after his stint in the NBA's minor league. Pearl didn't flat-out demand a tournament ban, but he definitely thinks it's worth a conversation.

Pearl's Personal History

He even dragged up his own past, referencing his firing from Tennessee over recruiting violations (which, let's be honest, seem pretty tame by today's standards). Pearl seems to think he could've fought the NCAA in court, but he didn't. Alabama, on the other hand, is taking a different approach.

Is This a Fair Comparison?

Of course, times have changed drastically in college sports. What used to be a major infraction might barely raise an eyebrow now. Pearl argues that going to court sets a bad precedent when teams don't like the NCAA's rulings.

The Bigger Picture

Pearl raises an interesting point: maybe the only way to stop all the legal battles is to make an example of someone. But with international players flocking to college teams, Alabama argues that Bediako shouldn't be treated any differently.

What Happens Next?

Bediako's eligibility hearing is set for Friday, just before Alabama heads to Auburn. Will Bediako be playing? Who knows! But Pearl has certainly made his opinion known. Is this about fairness? Or is the Auburn-Alabama rivalry playing a role? You decide, ChumCity!

Wes Allen Gets Zapped with Endorsement!

Alabama's electric co-ops are powering up Wes Allen's campaign for Lieutenant Governor! The Electric Cooperatives of Alabama PAC threw their support behind Allen on Monday, and it's a big deal.

Why the Buzz?

Karl Rayborn, CEO of the Alabama Rural Electric Association of Cooperatives (AREA), praised Allen's dedication. He highlighted Allen's understanding of how smart decisions impact vital infrastructure – like our beloved electric co-ops! They're confident he'll keep fighting for reliable power and good government across the state.

Allen's Impressive Resume

From Pike County Probate Judge to the Alabama House, and now as our Secretary of State, Allen's got the experience. He's known for cutting red tape, keeping a close eye on spending, and making our elections super secure.

Allen's Amped Up!

"I know how important Alabama's electric cooperatives are," Allen said, "They keep the power on!" He recognizes their vital role in Alabama's prosperity, delivering energy through thick and thin. He's super thankful for their support.

Plugging into Progress

This endorsement shows Alabama's electric co-ops are serious about boosting rural communities and moving Alabama forward!

Heartbreak Spurs Action: Protecting Alabama's Campers!

What started as a tragedy is now fueling a mission to protect Alabama's kids! State Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) has introduced HB381, the "Sarah Marsh Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act," named in honor of the young girl from Mountain Brook who tragically lost her life in the Texas floods last summer. Governor Ivey is fully behind this crucial legislation.

Remembering Sarah Marsh

Last July, a devastating flash flood at Camp Mystic in Texas claimed 27 lives, including 8-year-old Sarah Marsh. The disaster exposed serious issues, including inadequate safety measures and outdated warning systems, all compounded by the camp's location in a high-risk area.

Alabama Takes Action

Rep. Faulkner, moved by the grief following this tragedy, is now working to ensure Alabama does everything possible to protect children at overnight camps.

"The Sarah Marsh Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act is instrumental in keeping children safe," Faulkner stated. The bill aims to put common-sense safety requirements in place at Alabama's overnight camps. "We have great camps in Alabama that do a great job keeping our children safe, and we want to make sure that great track record continues."

Key Components of the Bill

Faulkner's bill mandates that every dedicated campsite in Alabama secure an emergency preparedness license from the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. This includes requirements for staff hiring, effective emergency communication, flood safety, sheltering, emergency and evacuation plans, and coordination with local emergency management.

Governor Ivey's Support

“Keeping children safe must always come first,” Governor Ivey declared. "After the heartbreaking loss of Sarah Marsh... I believe we have a responsibility to act. I encourage passage of this legislation that ensures our camps are prepared, informed, and equipped to respond to emergencies.”

Avoiding Disaster: Floodplain Restrictions

A vital part of the bill prohibits camps from operating cabins in floodplains. Camp Mystic's proximity to the Guadalupe River in Texas directly contributed to the unimaginable tragedy.

Statewide Flood Notification System

Governor Ivey has also announced a statewide flood notification system, complementing Faulkner's bill to establish comprehensive safety standards for Alabama's summer camps.

Essential Safety Measures

HB381 would mandate camps to have:

• A NOAA Weather Radio for "all-hazards" alerts.
• Emergency protocols that don't rely on cellphones.
• An audible alarm system, independent of the internet, for staff and campers.
• Designated sheltering spaces with sufficient capacity.

Comprehensive Emergency Plans

The bill requires camps to maintain emergency plans covering situations like lost campers, fires, or natural disasters. Counselors will review the emergency plan with campers within 24 hours of the camp's start.

Moving Forward

Sarah Marsh's family, along with other Texas families, are expected to attend a committee hearing at the State House next week.

The legislation represents months of collaborative effort by the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, private overnight camps, legislative leaders, and others. The bill, if passed, would take effect in January 2027.