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Alabama’s Latest Cannabis Ban Proposal Sparks Criticism
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama lawmakers are once again facing backlash over a proposed bill that critics say reflects the state’s tendency to lag behind national trends on cannabis reform. Senate Bill 132, introduced on Feb. 6, seeks to classify psychoactive hemp derivatives, such as Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, as Schedule I controlled substances—placing them alongside…
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Alabama Bill Would Raise Age for Medical Consent, Raising Concerns Over Impact on Minors
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama lawmakers are considering a bill that would raise the age at which minors can independently consent to medical treatment from 14 to 18, a move that critics say could have serious consequences for vulnerable youth seeking care. The legislation, introduced by Republican Sen. Larry Stutts, would require parental consent for most…
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Chris Hodges Steps Down as Leader of Church of the Highlands Amid Legacy and Controversy
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Chris Hodges, founder of the Church of the Highlands, announced his decision to step down as lead pastor of Alabama’s largest congregation, marking a pivotal moment for a church that has grown into a nationwide religious powerhouse while navigating its share of controversies. Hodges, 60, who launched the church in 2001 with…
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Ivey’s State of the State Speech Mixes Policy With Culture War Rhetoric
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey used her State of the State address Tuesday night to outline her legislative agenda, focusing on crime and public safety while also pushing conservative social policies, including measures targeting transgender individuals and renewed efforts to display the Ten Commandments in public spaces. Ivey, an 80-year-old Republican, called for…
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Diageo’s $415 Million Facility to Boost Montgomery Economy, Support HBCUs
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Diageo, one of the world’s largest producers of alcoholic beverages, is investing $415 million in a new manufacturing and warehousing facility in Montgomery, Alabama. The 360,000-square-foot facility is expected to be fully operational by late 2025 and will bring significant economic benefits to the region. The project is anticipated to create 750…
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Baby Born in Alabama Krispy Kreme Parking Lot During Rare Snowstorm
DOTHAN, Ala. — A rare Alabama snowstorm set the stage for an unforgettable birth last month, when a baby boy was delivered in the parking lot of a Krispy Kreme doughnut shop in Dothan. Sha’Nya Bennett and her boyfriend, Keon Mitchell, were rushing to Flowers Hospital on Jan. 22 as Bennett went into labor. However,…