Economy New unemployment claims decreased last week Of the new claims, 86 percent were estimated to be related to the pandemic. Micah DanneyApril 23, 2021
State Governor awards $1 million grant to Jefferson County for COVID-19 recovery The award is part of more than $40 million allocated to Alabama from a CARES Act grant program. StaffApril 22, 2021
Legislature Alabama House committee approves ban on “vaccine passports” The bill also prohibits businesses from refusing goods and services to customers based on immunization status. Eddie BurkhalterApril 21, 2021
Legislature Senate OKs bill to require health care facilities to allow visitation The legislation would guarantee that Alabamians in nursing homes be allowed at least one visitor — even during a public health emergency. Brandon MoseleyApril 21, 2021
Economy New unemployment claims decreased last week The percentage of claims reported to be due to the pandemic dropped from 76 percent three weeks ago to 30 percent last week. Micah DanneyApril 17, 2021
Legislature House committee tables bill to curtail powers of health officer, governor Several members expressed concern the bill could hamper the governor's ability to quickly act in times of emergencies. Eddie BurkhalterApril 15, 2021
Health Alabama pauses Johnson & Johnson vaccine use after rare blood clots State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said there have been no reports of adverse reactions in Alabama. Eddie BurkhalterApril 13, 2021
Prisons As vaccines trickle into Alabama prisons, COVID-19 deaths continue Despite statements in February that vaccines couldn't be stored outside of prisons and brought in, that's what's now happening. Eddie BurkhalterApril 13, 2021
Health Possible vaccinations of children at Birmingham site under review Currently, no COVID-19 vaccine has FDA authorization for those under the age of 16. Only Pfizer has authorization for 16 and up. Eddie BurkhalterApril 9, 2021
State Orange Beach awarded federal aid to boost tourism after pandemic slowdown The federal aid will pay for planning and marketing to bolster tourism along the coast. Eddie BurkhalterApril 9, 2021