Alabama House Approves Gas Tax Increase
The Alabama House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to increase the state gas tax by 10 cents per gallon. The tax increase would be phased in over three years. After that, it would be adjusted to keep up with construction costs up to a penny every two years.
Under the proposal, electric and hybrid vehicle owners would pay additional annual fees — $200 on electric cars and $100 for plug-in hybrids. According to the Montgomery Advertiser, those could be adjusted depending on the presence of federal taxes.
Revenue from the tax increase would go toward rebuilding the state’s roads and bridges. Gov. Kay Ivey has pushed the infrastructure plan as an initiative that’s been long overdue. Proponents have argued the state’s deteriorating infrastructure is a hindrance to economic development. Some of those opposed want to be sure the state is spending the funds wisely.
A companion oversight bill adopted by the House requires state Department of Transportation projects to be ranked on an objective criteria, according to the Montgomery Advertiser.
Auburn tabs USF’s Alex Golesh as its next coach, replacing Hugh Freeze on the Plains
The 41-year-old Golesh, who was born in Russia and moved to the United State at age 7, is signing a six-year contract that averages more than $7 million annually to replace Hugh Freeze. Freeze was fired in early November after failing to fix Auburn’s offensive issues in three seasons on the Plains.
Alabama Power seeks to delay rate hike for new gas plant amid outcry
The state’s largest utility has proposed delaying the rate increase from its purchase of a $622 million natural gas plant until 2028.
Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones announces run for Alabama governor
Jones announced his campaign Monday afternoon, hours after filing campaign paperwork with the Secretary of State's Office. His gubernatorial bid could set up a rematch with U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, the Republican who defeated Jones in 2020 and is now running for governor.
Scorching Saturdays: The rising heat threat inside football stadiums
Excessive heat and more frequent medical incidents in Southern college football stadiums could be a warning sign for universities across the country.
The Gulf States Newsroom is hiring an Audio Editor
The Gulf States Newsroom is hiring an Audio Editor to join our award-winning team covering important regional stories across Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.
Judge orders new Alabama Senate map after ruling found racial gerrymandering
U.S. District Judge Anna Manasco, appointed by President Donald Trump during his first term, issued the ruling Monday putting a new court-selected map in place for the 2026 and 2030 elections.
