Judge Dismisses Alabama’s Suit Against U.S. Over Refugees
A federal judge has dismissed Alabama’s lawsuit against the U.S. government over potential Syrian refugee resettlement. The state had claimed the U.S. had not properly consulted with local leaders on a matter involving citizen security.
After the Paris terror attacks in November, Governor Robert Bentley and other state leaders declared that Alabama would not accept Syrian refugees. The lawsuit filed in January was based partly on the Refugee Act of 1980, which says the U.S. has to “consult regularly” with state and local governments about potential placement.
But Chief Magistrate Judge John E. Ott yesterday dismissed the suit, partly because claims the U.S. failed to adequately consult or provide sufficient information about refugees were “vague.”
Late last night in response to the ruling, Bentley released a statement saying, “My problem is not with individual refugees … The federal government has a total disregard for the states (sic) safety.” Critics say the suit was a political stunt that increased Islamophobia.
Alabama has 60 days to file an appeal.
Pro-Palestinian demonstration draws counter-protest at University of Alabama
Students gathered demanding the school call for a permanent and immediate ceasefire and to push the school to sever ties with defense contractor Lockheed Martin.
A new Statehouse and related projects will cost about $400 million
The Alabama Legislative Council, a 20-member panel comprised of legislative leaders and their appointees, approved the construction of the new Statehouse last year. The panel was given an update on the project on Wednesday.
New pilot program will offer housing, resources to people leaving prison
The Birmingham Reentry Alliance will provide wrap around services to dozens of men and women adjusting to life after prison.
Alabama committee advances ban on LGBTQ+ pride flags in classrooms
The Senate Education Policy Committee voted 5-2 for the House-passed bill, putting the proposal in line for a possible final passage in the last four days of the legislative session.
A New Orleans garden paid hundreds of dollars in fees for a sewer that doesn’t exist
Galvez Garden owner Lissie Stewart has been fighting the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board over inaccurate billing for years.
Alabama coal mine keeps digging after hundreds of fines and a fatal explosion
Following the death of a grandfather, Crimson Oak Grove Resources has left a community afraid for their homes and lives. An expert warns one resident may need to evacuate her home while she still can.
