Refocusing Alabama’s Priorities and Prosperity

As the Alabama Legislature is about to embark on a new four-year period, take time to reflect on the progress we’ve made, the obstacles we’ve yet to overcome, and assess the new and emerging challenges we must face. I believe it is essential to apply Together, we will put Alabama on the path to greater prosperity. Too often we get distracted by cynical political debates and complicated “culture wars” issues, but Congress in 2023 will focus on the real, undeniable common priorities that lie ahead. represents a truly viable opportunity to renew the fit.

While we have made great progress in recovering from the devastating human and financial losses felt during the pandemic and its aftermath, many Alabama families and businesses are still struggling. , the Alabama legislature should strongly consider ideas such as eliminating regressive food and gas taxes that help everyone. I have. This puts more money in the pockets of hardworking Alabama people and their families. These are small but important steps we can take towards greater prosperity.

Of course, the term “prosperity” is not just a measure of wealth, but is defined more broadly as a condition of success and prosperity. In other words, to be rich, you must be healthy. As such, there is a need to expand access to affordable healthcare and increase investment in telemedicine. This is especially true in areas where adequate medical services are lacking. That is why we must find new ways to attract and retain healthcare providers in rural communities. Together, we can increase prenatal, fertility and child care statewide. increase.

Refocusing Alabama’s priorities and prosperity must also include finding solutions to uncomfortable problems, such as addressing the current prison crisis and reforming the criminal justice system. We need to improve pardon and parole processes and work together to make correctional facilities safer. Investing in inmate re-entry programs makes one person less likely to commit another crime, keeps communities safer, and helps the economy grow.

Another lesson we’ve learned through the pandemic is the importance of face-to-face education in classrooms led by qualified educators. That’s why the last Congress passed the largest education trust fund budget in Alabama’s history, ensuring that teachers and students have the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. A recent report found that student scores in Alabama didn’t drop as significantly during the pandemic as others across the country, but efforts to continue to support teachers and improve student test scores have been made. We need to encourage innovation in new ways.

Access to ready and affordable post-secondary education and training. Renewing our commitment to continuously improving public education is the best way to ensure that our children have the brightest futures.

Another Alabama priority that deserves our focus is ensuring that voting rights are protected and renewing our commitment to making voting easier, more accessible, and safer. Alabama people deserve their voices to be heard. It’s also worth noting that turnout in the last election in Alabama was historically low. That is why we need to support common sense policies that increase voter engagement and participation.

So, as we embark on this new four-year period of legislation, I hope we can find common ground and refocus Alabama’s priorities. It’s time to put aside political distractions and work together for those who have entrusted us to represent their best interests. , a way to propel Alabama toward long-term success. Together, let’s make 2023 a year of achievement and growth.