Big Trouble Brewing for Alabama's Teacher Health Insurance!

Hold on to your hats, folks! Alabama's public educators' health insurance, known as PEEHIP, is facing a massive $380 million shortfall by fiscal year 2027. This could throw a major wrench into the state's Education Trust Fund (ETF) budget as lawmakers scramble for solutions this spring.

What's PEEHIP Anyway?

PEEHIP provides health coverage to around 104,000 active education employees and a whopping 350,000 people total, including spouses and dependents. It's run by the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) and covers K-12 teachers, two-year college employees, and some university staff.

Why the Giant Hole in the Budget?

Soaring medical and prescription drug costs are to blame. These costs have more than tripled since 2003 and could push PEEHIP's annual expenses to a staggering $1.8 to $2 billion by 2027-2028. The PEEHIP board wants to bump up the employer contribution rate from $904 to $1,209 per employee each month to cover it.

Governor's Plan Falls Short

Governor Ivey's ETF recommendation only funds the employer rate at $1,073 per month, which is way below what the PEEHIP board says is needed. While RSA officials say they can handle things in the short term, relying on reserves is a dangerous game that could jeopardize the program's future.

Lawmakers in a Tight Spot

Lawmakers now have a tough choice. They can either pump more state money into PEEHIP, taking away from other priorities like teacher raises, raise premiums and copays for teachers, cut benefits, or drain the program's reserve fund. Ouch!

Raiding the Piggy Bank

PEEHIP has already dipped into its reserve fund. A whopping $118.9 million was transferred for FY2026 to help cover rising costs, with potentially another $31 to $74 million needed during that same year. This isn't the first time either, similar withdrawals were made in 2015 and 2016.

A Massive Budget Battle

Last year, lawmakers already increased the employer contribution rate from $800 to $904 per month. But now, they're being asked to shell out even more. Since about 72% of PEEHIP costs are paid with ETF dollars, any big increase will directly compete with teacher salaries, classroom funding, and other crucial education initiatives.

What's Next?

Budget committee chairs are expected to tackle ETF appropriations soon. Get ready for some heated debates as the Legislature enters the final stretch of the session.

Boaters Rejoice! New Law Protects Your Rights on Alabama Waterways

Alabama boaters, get ready to cruise with more freedom! The House and Senate just passed a bill preventing law enforcement from randomly stopping or boarding your vessel for safety or equipment checks without a good reason. That's right, no more fishing expeditions!

What's the Deal?

HB254, championed by State Rep. Shane Stringer and Sen. Chris Elliott, applies the same rules as traffic stops to our waterways. Think of it: cops can't just pull you over on the road without a reason, right? Now that same protection extends to your boat.

Why is this a Big Deal?

Representative Stringer emphasized the goal is to safeguard boaters' constitutional rights, making sure inspections aren't just random. Senator Elliott added that this puts an end to unnecessary hassles for boaters trying to enjoy the water. Imagine being stopped for no reason while heading to a waterfront restaurant? Talk about a buzzkill!

What's Next?

The bill is headed to Governor Kay Ivey’s desk for her signature. If she signs it, the new law kicks in on June 1, 2026. Get ready for smoother sailing, Alabama!

Chuck and JT: Alabama vs. Auburn, Even on the Green!

Alabama and Auburn. It's a rivalry that runs deep in the Yellowhammer State, and nobody embodies it better than Charles Barkley and Justin Thomas. These two just gave us another reason to love their banter!

Barkley's Surprise Question

At the Arnold Palmer Invitational press conference, where Justin Thomas is making his comeback from injury, Sir Charles decided to crash the party. He snuck into the media section, ready to stir the pot.

The Auburn Jab

Barkley, ever the Auburn Tiger, couldn't resist taking a shot at the Crimson Tide. He asked Thomas point-blank, "When Alabama was getting rolled by Indiana, where exactly were you at?"

Thomas's Ace Response

Thomas, quick on his feet, fired back a perfect response. He joked about suddenly having tons of new "Indiana football fan" friends and said he should have asked Barkley for advice on handling big losses, since the Auburn legend has "gone through that more than I have."

Good Sportsmanship Prevails

Barkley, never one to shy away from a good zinger, admitted Thomas's response was well-played.

Thomas is back on the course after November back surgery, hoping to regain his winning form before the Masters. We're rooting for you, JT!

Court Chaos in Pensacola!

A South Alabama Jaguars women's basketball game went completely bonkers Wednesday at the Sun Belt Tournament in Pensacola. A massive brawl erupted between the Jaguars and Coastal Carolina, resulting in a ref getting injured and eight players getting the boot!

What Happened?

Things got heated between Coastal Carolina’s Tracey Hueston and South Alabama’s Cordasia Harris. When Hueston reacted to a shove from Harris, referee Marla Gearhar stepped in and unfortunately got knocked to the ground in the melee. Thankfully, she was checked out and released by medical staff.

Ejections and Suspensions

Hueston and Harris were immediately ejected, along with SIX other players! Hueston also got suspended for the rest of the postseason. Jaguars players Amyah Sutton and Daniela Gonzalez were also suspended for one game.

Coaches Speak Out

South Alabama coach Yolisha Jackson said, "We never want to be put in that situation... It's a very unfortunate situation." South Alabama AD Joel Erdmann disagreed with the suspensions, stating he didn't believe the players' actions constituted "fighting" according to NCAA rules.

What's Next?

The Jaguars will face Texas State on Thursday afternoon without their suspended players. Talk about drama on the court!

School Choice: Empowering Families in Alabama!

Hey ChumCity citizens! Ever wonder about school choice in Alabama? It's not about emptying public schools, it's about giving power to parents and helping students find the best fit!

Expanding Opportunities

Alabama's school choice law is opening doors, and tons of families are jumping on board. More options mean more chances for kids to thrive!

Pro vs. Con

Folks on one side are cheering, saying it's boosting students and giving parents control. Others worry it might impact the public school budget. What do you think?

Local Insight

Want to dive deeper? Check out Dale Jackson, a thought leader at Yellowhammer News and host of a talk show on WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m.! He's got the inside scoop.

Building Bridges: One Woman's Rise in Construction

Only a sliver of the construction world is made up of women, but Bri Conner from Hollywood, Alabama, isn't backing down! Seeing an opportunity where others saw obstacles, she jumped right in, thinking, "I can totally do this."

She's Da Bosss!

Bri Conner, a contracting supervisor for Lambert Contracting and ambassador for Go Build Alabama, lives up to her social media handle, "shes_da_bosss." And in the construction game, she absolutely is.

Leading the Charge

As a contracting supervisor, Bri manages a team of six and another 10 subcontractors. She keeps everything running smoothly, projects on schedule, and her (mostly male) team in line – a skill she's honed over time.

Earning Respect

"You do have to prove yourself more, being a woman," Bri admits. "You have to show the men that you can do their job, maybe even better. Then they respect you." This week, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is celebrating women in the field and their awesome contributions.

Breaking Barriers

Bri recalls early days when she joked about her pink hard hat hopefully preventing people from calling her "sir." But the more time she invests, the more respect she earns – and she’s actively recruiting more women to join her!

Go Build Alabama Ambassador

As an ambassador for Go Build Alabama, Bri connects students and career changers with training and job opportunities. The outreach has been incredible, and she's even added another woman to her team recently!

Social Media Superstar

Bri shares project clips, advice for grads, and tips for women entering construction on social media. "I get a lot more questions from women because of it," she says. "Most women are just operators. But I can do anything on a job site – and a lot of women don't realize they can too! It's opened their eyes."

Ready to Build?

What does it take to be a woman in construction? Hard work, says Bri, but totally worth it.

Words of Wisdom

"Don't be scared," she encourages. "Just give it a try! It's a lot easier than people make it out to be."

From Farm to Foreman

Bri's roots in construction run deep. "I grew up on a farm, and my grandpa worked in construction," she recalls. "I'd get off the school bus and ride a bulldozer with my uncle. They always supported me and weren't pushing me down."

United Rentals Equipment Rodeo

NAWIC is hosting a United Rentals Equipment Rodeo in Huntsville, and Bri's bringing her younger cousin to check it out!

Build Alabama

"We need more women to help build Alabama," Bri declares, and she's making sure the next generation knows there's a place for them on the job site.

UA Launches Brain Health Initiative: COMPASS to Guide Recovery

The University of Alabama is stepping up to bat for brain health, launching a brand-new initiative to help folks across the state navigate the often-tricky road to recovery after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Introducing COMPASS

Dubbed COMPASS (Comprehensive Post-Acute Specialty Services), this program is all about providing coordinated evaluations for patients still facing cognitive, emotional, neurological, or functional challenges even after they've left the hospital. UA says it's bringing specialists together for a single assessment, aiming to give patients and their families much clearer guidance during their long-term recovery journey.

Ribbon-Cutting in Tuscaloosa

Leaders from the University of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services recently celebrated the program's launch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony right there in Tuscaloosa.

A Coordinated Approach

The COMPASS clinic is housed within the Institute for Social Science Research and operates out of the University of Alabama Welcome Center. Officials say COMPASS was created to tackle a common problem: after surviving a TBI, many patients struggle with lingering symptoms and have to navigate multiple doctors without a coordinated recovery plan.

Family-Centered Care

COMPASS uses a structured, family-centered approach, including caregivers in the evaluation process. This helps everyone understand how the brain injury is affecting daily life, communication, and long-term functioning. Patients get a same-day, interdisciplinary evaluation, combining multiple clinical perspectives into one coordinated visit, resulting in personalized recommendations.

"Navigating Fragmented Systems"

"COMPASS was developed because too many individuals living with the long-term effects of brain injury find themselves navigating fragmented systems without clear answers,” explains David White, director of the COMPASS initiative. "Even when imaging appears normal, cognitive, emotional and behavioral symptoms can persist and profoundly affect daily life.”

Free Services Thanks to ADRS

The program is fully funded by the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, meaning services are provided free of charge to eligible patients. No Alabamian will pay for care through this program.

How to Get Involved

All referrals to COMPASS must come through the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, specifically through the state’s traumatic brain injury program. They'll coordinate services and resources for individuals recovering from brain injuries.

Serving Civilians & Military

The program is expected to serve patients from across Alabama, including both civilians and members of the military community.

Part of a Statewide Network

Tuscaloosa’s clinic is part of a larger statewide network of TBI treatment centers.

Strengthening Alabama's Brain Injury System

The COMPASS initiative builds on collaboration between various state offices, committees, and agencies all working to strengthen Alabama’s brain injury system of care.

Connecting Veterans & Civilians

ADRS Commissioner Jane Elizabeth Burdeshaw emphasizes that TBI often requires specialized treatment and long-term support. "As the lead agency for the coordination of TBI services, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services can now connect more veterans and civilians with crucial behavioral health services, supports and resources through this new clinic partnership."

A Roadmap to Recovery

For many patients and families, the new COMPASS clinic offers something often hard to find: coordinated care, clearer answers, and a roadmap for the long path to recovery.

Alabama's Wins Pile Up!

We're officially past the halfway mark of this year's Regular Session – 19 legislative days down, and a whole lot accomplished for Alabama! This week alone, I signed Senate Bill 149, opening doors for more veterans to become teachers, and the Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act, focused on our youngest Alabamians. Remember the Child Predator Death Penalty Act from earlier? Public safety is a HUGE priority!

Getting the Job Done

Alabama is getting things done, plain and simple! Big shoutout to Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger for their awesome leadership! As I approach my tenth Regular Session as governor, I can't help but reflect on our incredible progress, especially compared to the gridlock in Congress.

Alabama: A National Leader

Guess what? The Republican Governors Association shared some seriously good news:

• Top 10 in the nation for cost of living!
• Top 5 for housing affordability!
• And the NUMBER ONE most affordable state overall!

That's the result of years of rock-solid, conservative governance. We put in the hard work and implement smart policies. Other governors are asking for our secret sauce!

Speaker Ledbetter: A Key Partner

Alabama Republicans are leading the charge on common-sense policies, and the nation is taking notice. Our secret? Dedicated leaders, like Speaker Ledbetter, who aren't afraid to tackle tough issues. We've been side-by-side for years, advancing conservative policy and making government work for YOU!

Backing the Blue and More

Last year's Safe Alabama public safety package, including the Back the Blue bill, was a HUGE win. It sends a clear message to our law enforcement: Alabama has your back! We're also expanding Aniah’s Law to keep criminals off our streets and cracking down on fentanyl traffickers.

Standing Strong on Key Issues

While other states struggle with illegal immigration, we're supporting law enforcement and prioritizing American citizens. We're ensuring election integrity with voter ID laws, championing the strongest pro-life legislation in the country, boasting the best education savings account program (CHOOSE Act), and protecting girls' sports. We even know what a woman is!

Results You Can See

We've delivered $1.4 billion in tax cuts, attracted historic economic investments, improved our infrastructure, and made nationally recognized education gains. And Speaker Ledbetter has been a part of EVERY bit of this success!

The Work Continues

As I said in my state of the state address, Speaker Ledbetter is an outstanding Speaker, and Alabama is better because of his service. Our work isn't done yet! Let's keep our eyes on the prize and make Alabama the most conservative state and the best place to live, work, and raise a family! Together, we can make Alabama a model for the nation!

Kay Ivey, 54th Governor of Alabama

Tuberville Sounds Alarm on "Radical Islam"

Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is raising eyebrows with his strong stance on "radical Islam" following recent U.S. military actions in Iran. He's calling for the deportation of anyone supporting what he describes as a dangerous "death cult" ideology.

Senate Floor Speech Sparks Debate

Tuberville recently took to the Senate floor, backing President Trump's moves against Iran's nuclear program and the elimination of a key Iranian figure. He went on to suggest that anyone adhering to Sharia Law should be immediately deported.

"Not a Religion, But a Death Cult"

"Radical Islam is not a religion," Tuberville declared, "It's a death cult... that encourages Muslims to kill all infidels." He believes this translates to targeting Americans and Christians.

Threat Within Our Borders?

According to Tuberville, the threat isn't just overseas. He claims that under the Biden administration, "thousands of radical Islamic terrorists illegally entered our country." He questions how many terrorists are currently operating within the U.S.

Proposed Legislation: The "No Sharia Act"

The Senator introduced a two-bill package last year, including the "No Sharia Act," aimed at preventing the enforcement of Sharia Law in America.

Welcome, But With Conditions

Tuberville stated that those who wish to come to America peacefully, practice their religion, and embrace American values are welcome. However, he insists that "if you believe that Sharia law supersedes American law... you should be deported pronto." He argues that Sharia Law is "anti-American" and has no place in a free society.

Funding Homeland Security: A Matter of Urgency

Tuberville is also urging Democrats to prioritize funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He believes that "the enemies are inside the gates" and that it's time to "reopen the Department of Homeland Security, deporting every single terrorist who is living in this country." He warns that if action isn't taken, "our way of life, our Christian values, our freedoms, and our national identity are gone."

Ivey's Message to Alabama Students: Get Your Read On!

Governor Ivey is spreading some bookish love! In a video message for Read Across America Week, she's calling on all Alabama students to grab a book and dive in.

Reading: Your Superpower!

Ivey emphasized how crucial reading is, urging everyone to make it a daily habit. Think of strong reading skills as your personal superpower, unlocking doors to awesome opportunities, endless learning, and future triumphs!

Dream Big, Read Big

According to Ivey, a love of learning, a solid education, and good old-fashioned hard work are your keys to success. Plus, with America's 250th birthday in full swing, now's the perfect time to explore our nation's rich history through books!

Read Across America: Celebrating the Joy of Reading

Read Across America Week, brought to you by the National Education Association (NEA), is all about getting kids and teens excited about reading.

Dr. Seuss and So Much More!

Typically celebrated around March 2nd, Dr. Seuss's birthday, this week is packed with school events, community gatherings, and guest readers – all designed to ignite a lifelong passion for reading.

Alabama Gets Bookish!

Schools and libraries all over Alabama are joining the fun with special programs to help students discover amazing new books and boost their reading skills.