NEWS RELEASE: Alabama House Democratic Caucas
At the podium, Governor Kay Ivey praised (far left) Speaker Mac McCutcheon (R-Monrovia)
for the statesmanlike way he presided over the House during the special session. She also
had extensive praise for (far right) State Rep. Bill Poole (R-Tuscaloosa), the sponsor of the
legislative package in the House who was given a standing ovation after its passage. Afterwards, standing right of Ivey, House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels made comments.
“The economic and human impact of investing in our transportation infrastructure cannot be overstated. Neglecting our infrastructure means losing out on in-state business growth, as well as potential out-of-state investment – not to mention the lives we put at risk by not ensuring our roads and bridges are safe for every Alabamian,” said House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville.
House Democrats were proud to successfully put forward an amendment to the Rebuilding Alabama Act in support of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). The amendment ensures DBEs are included early in the procurement process to meet the 30 percent participation level required in the bill. If this level is not met, the Alabama Department of Transportation must provide the newly-formed Joint Transportation Committee with a report outlining a strategy to increase DBE participation.
“It is absolutely vital that our DBEs get a fair shot at being considered for the many state projects resulting from this bill,” said A.J. McCampbell, D-Livingston. “Our amendment not only creates an expectation, but it also holds ALDOT appropriately accountable for meeting the goal of increasing DBE participation in the state procurement process.”
Today was a step forward in addressing the critical needs for our roads and bridges throughout the state. However, House Democrats believe if we are truly committed to seeing Alabama meet its full potential, we must have a more comprehensive vision for how to improve our infrastructure. It is not just our roads and bridges that need investment.
“As we head back into Regular Session soon, I hope Gov. Ivey and our colleagues across the aisle can commit to tackling our other significant infrastructure challenges, particularly health care, with the same resolve we brought to transportation today,” said Minority Caucus Chair Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa.
House members passed the bi-partisan bill 83-20.
“Building a solid infrastructure also means investing in the people of Alabama,” said Minority Caucus Vice Chair Barbara Drummond D-Mobile. “Building a better Alabama, means prioritizing the stability of our rural hospitals, which are often one of the top employers in areas where jobs are scarce. It means expanding access to Pre-K to ensure that every child has the foundation to be successful, and committing to real criminal justice reform that will keep our communities safer.”
