May 4, 2021
Governor Ivey awarded a total of $4.5 million to four Alabama cities under the Community Development Block Grant Program. Birmingham and Mobile were awarded $1.5 million each, and Tuscaloosa and Decatur were awarded $750,000 each. Click here to learn more.
May 3, 2021
Governor Ivey issued a twenty-seventh supplemental emergency proclamation extending the state of emergency related to the coronavirus until July 6, 2021. The proclamation incorporates an amended “Safer Apart” health order, which is effective through May 31, 2021. In a separate press release, Governor Ivey announced that when the “Safer Apart” health order expires on May 31, 2021, the last remaining state-level coronavirus-related requirements and restrictions will be lifted. Click here to view the supplemental emergency proclamation and amended order and here to view the press release.
April 28, 2021
Governor Ivey announced that she has awarded $750,000 to the city of Auburn from the Community Development Block Grant Program. Click here to learn more.
April 21, 2021
Governor Ivey awarded $1.03 million to Jefferson County and its municipalities. The award is part of more than $40 million allocated to the state under the Community Development Block Grant Program funded by the CARES Act to aid coronavirus recovery efforts and prevent the spread of COVID-19 and any future infectious diseases. Click here to learn more.
April 7, 2021
Governor Kay Ivey issued a twenty-sixth supplemental emergency proclamation that incorporates an amended “Safer Apart” health order and is effective beginning at 5:00 p.m. on April 9, 2021 until 5:00 p.m. on May 5, 2021. The proclamation rescinds the state-wide mask requirement, but encourages individuals to wear masks or face coverings when in public and in close contact with others. The order includes quarantine requirements for individuals who have tested posted for COVID-19, protections for employees, customers, constituents and students, and provisions for senior citizen centers, facilities that serve children, and hospitals and other similar institutions. Click here to view the supplemental emergency proclamation and here to view the amended order.
April 6, 2021
The Birmingham City Council approved a citywide ordinance requiring persons over six years of age to wear face coverings or masks in public through May 24, 2021. Click here to view the ordinance and here to read FAQs.
March 22, 2021
Governor Ivey issued a twenty-fifth supplemental emergency proclamation incorporating an amended “Safer at Home” health order that includes amendments to the provisions pertaining to educational institutions to reflect updated recommendations from the CDC concerning physical distancing in elementary, middle and high schools. The physical distancing required in such schools has been reduced to three feet. Click here to view the supplemental emergency proclamation and amended order.
March 12, 2021
Governor Ivey issued a twenty-fourth supplemental emergency proclamation incorporating an updated “Safer at Home” health order with three technical revisions pertaining to the exercise exception to the mask requirement, quarantine assistance and updated visitation guidance for nursing homes, assisted living facilities and specialty care assisted living facilities. Click here to view the supplemental emergency proclamation and amended order.
January 21, 2021
Governor Ivey issued a twenty-second supplemental emergency proclamation extending the “Safer at Home” health order through March 5, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. and incorporating the amended “Order of the State Health Officer Suspending Certain Public Health Gatherings Due to Risk of Infection by COVID-19.” This extends existing restrictions and provisions, including the requirement for face coverings or masks when in public. Governor Ivey also extended previous provisions related to the administration of municipal and state elections.
Click here to view the supplemental emergency proclamation and here to view the amended order.
December 28, 2020
Governor Ivey announced that she extended the Alabama Broadband Connectivity for Students program into 2021 as a result of the recently enacted additional COVID-19 relief funding. Costs for current participants will now be covered through the spring semester of 2021.
Click here to learn more.
December 11, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a Twenty-First Supplemental Emergency Proclamation to ensure that Alabama citizens and businesses do not pay Alabama income tax on any direct benefits received under the CARES Act, such as tax credits, advance refund amounts, and cancellation-of-indebtedness income from loan forgiveness pursuant to Section 1106 of the CARES Act.
Click here to view the supplemental proclamation.
December 9, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a twentieth supplemental state of emergency extending the state of emergency through March 8, 2021, and the “Safer at Home” health order through 5:00 p.m. on January 22, 2021. This extends existing restrictions and provisions, including the requirement for face coverings or masks when in public.
Click here to view the supplemental state of emergency and here to view the amended order.
November 18, 2020
Governor Ivey announced Revive Plus, a $200 million Small Business Grant Program which will support small businesses, non-profits and faith-based organizations that have been impacted by COVID-19 with grants of up to $20,000. This is the second round of funding for organizations with 50 or fewer employees, and it will cover expenses due to operational interruptions caused by the pandemic. The application period runs from November 23, 2020 through December 4, 2020.
To learn more, click here.
November 5, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a nineteenth supplemental state of emergency extending the “Safer at Home” health order through 5:00 p.m. on December 11, 2020. This continues the requirement for face coverings or masks when in public. The order removes emergency occupancy rates for retailers, gyms, and entertainment venues. The order also includes an exception to the six-feet of social-distancing rules for many businesses, including barber shops, hair salons, gyms and restaurants, if the customers wear face coverings and are separated by an “impermeable” barrier. Restaurants that have dividers will also be allowed to increase the number of patrons inside, although six feet of social distancing and face coverings are still required.
Click here to view the supplemental state of emergency and here to view the amended order.
September 30, 2020
Governor Ivey issued an eighteenth supplemental state of emergency extending the “Safer at Home” health order through 5:00 p.m. on November 8, 2020. This includes the requirement for face coverings or masks when in public. The order also allows nursing homes to permit residents one in-person visitor at a time subject to reasonable restrictions beginning October 2, 2020.
Click here to view the supplemental state of emergency and here to view the amended order.
September 29, 2020
The State of Alabama has been awarded a $17.8 million Reimagine Workforce Preparation Grant, which will be administered by the Alabama Department of Commerce on behalf of the State Workforce Investment Board to support the Alabama Workforce Stabilization Program. The grant will provide opportunities for workers that have been displaced by the coronavirus to develop new skills in high demand industries. Alabama was one of eight states awarded the grant.
To learn more, click here.
September 24, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $35 million in CARES Act funds to establish the Alabama Health Care and Emergency Response Providers grant program. Grants will be distributed on a first-come-first serve basis in an amount of up to $15,000 for eligible Alabama healthcare and emergency response providers that have been financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
To learn more, click here.
September 14, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $10M in CARES Act funds to support the Tourism Industry Recovery Program. To learn more, click here.
September 8, 2020
Through the Alabama Broadband Connectivity for Students program, over 250,000 vouchers have been mailed to families with children enrolled in the National School Lunch Program. The vouchers cover existing or new internet service for eligible families through December 30, 2020. The vouchers are expected to provide service for up to 450,000 students and are made available through a $100M allocation from federal CARES Act funding.
To learn more, click here.
September 1, 2020
Alabama State University is installing five Smart Thermal Temperature and Smart Vital Signs Screening camera stations on campus to detect changes in temperature and vital signs to alert students, faculty and staff to possible COVID-19 infection. The readings are anonymous, but the stations will provide ASU with data including the number of screenings, vital signs and the time for each screening.
To learn more, click here.
August 31, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $10 million in CARES Act funding to the Alabama Forestry Commission Timber Owners Program to assist Alabama timber owners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Alabama Forestry Commission will administer the program, which will include grants of up to $10,000 on a first-come, first serve basis to eligible timber owners.
To learn more, click here.
August 28, 2020
UAB announced a zero-tolerance policy for students and employees who do not follow the COVID-19 safety rules. For students, there is a progressive Code of Conduct disciplinary path for non-compliance. Non-compliant employees will not be able to enter campus.
Students are also required to complete certain safety protocols for re-entry, including testing, completing the safety training module and/or using the Health Check symptom tracker and will not be able to return to class until they have completed the protocols. Continued non-compliance with the safety protocols for re-entry will result in an interim suspension.
To learn more, click here.
August 27, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a seventeenth supplemental state of emergency extending the state of emergency related to the coronavirus through November 8, 2020 and extending the “Safer at Home” health order by incorporating the amended Order of State Health Officer Suspending Certain Public Health Gatherings Due to Risk of Infection by COVID-19. The “Safer at Home” health order, which includes face covering requirements and restrictions on retail stores, restaurants and bars, athletic facilities and close-contact service providers, is extended through 5:00 p.m. on October 2, 2020. To view the Seventeenth Supplemental State of Emergency and amended Order of State Health Officer, click here.
The Auburn City Council issued a resolution prohibiting walk-up bar service indoors beginning August 28, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. until September 16, 2020. Indoor alcohol service is restricted to customers seated at tables, counters or bars. To learn more, click here.
Jacksonville State University has suspended all in-person activities or events sponsored or endorsed by student organizations, including those that occur off campus, through at least September 9, 2020 due to coronavirus concerns. It has also closed its residence halls to visitors. To learn more, click here.
August 26, 2020
Troy University has suspended all fraternity activities, including recruitment, until after Labor Day due to coronavirus concerns. To learn more, click here.
August 25, 2020
Auburn University is limiting on-campus in-person gatherings and events to no more than 50 people effective August 24, 2020 through October 10, 2020. The restriction does not apply to athletics and will not impact Auburn’s two home football games during the period, although capacity at Jordan-Hare Stadium for games is capped at 20% or roughly 17,500 fans and on-campus tailgating is banned. To learn more, click here.
August 24, 2020
City of Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox issued an executive order effective August 24, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. through September 8, 2020 at 6:00 a.m. requiring all ABC lounge alcohol licensees in the City of Tuscaloosa to cease the service and sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption. All other ABC licensed establishments must suspend walk up bar service and allow alcohol sales only to seated customers. As part of the order, Mayor Maddox requested that the Tuscaloosa City Council fund an additional $400,000 of Restart Tuscaloosa Small Business Assistance Grants and defer City of Tuscaloosa sales tax collections from the affected businesses.
To view the order, click here.
The Alabama Department of Public Health issued revised back to school guidelines using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s division of coronavirus symptoms as “major” or “minor.” ADPH now recommends sending students and their close contacts home to isolate only in the case of major symptoms – a new cough, loss of taste or smell or bout of difficulty breathing.
To view the updated guidelines, click here.
August 21, 2020
The University of Alabama announced new coronavirus-related restrictions, including restrictions on Greek houses and a moratorium on in-person student events for 14 days. Entry to fraternity and sorority houses is limited to residents, and other members may only pick up grab-and-go meals. Access to common rooms in the houses is restricted.
To learn more, click here.
Governor Ivey issued a sixteenth supplemental state of emergency to help cities and towns secure election officials and poll workers for upcoming municipal elections by waiving certain residency and training requirements in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
To view the order, click here.
August 18, 2020
The State of Alabama has applied for the Lost Wages Assistance Program, an option offered by President Trump’s executive order after the $600 federal unemployment supplement expired. The Lost Wages Assistance Program would allow Alabamians collecting unemployment because of the coronavirus pandemic to receive a $300 weekly federal supplement in addition to the state unemployment payment. The Lost Wages Assistance Program ends if funding is exhausted, the federal government enacts a new federal unemployment supplement law or by December 27th, whichever comes first.
To learn more, click here.
August 17, 2020
The GuideSafe Exposure Notification App has been released in Alabama. The app notifies users if they have been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app does not identify individuals or track locations. Instead, it tracks contacts with users who have installed the app and spent 15 minutes within six feet of each other. It has been available to Alabama college students since August 3rd.
To learn more, click here.
August 13, 2020
The University of Alabama released updated return to campus guidelines with details on how it will enforce rules and regulations related to the coronavirus.
For students, the first violation results in a written warning and additional health and safety training. A second violation involves a formal conduct charge, which could go on the student’s written record, and additional training. A third violation results in disciplinary probation for up to two semesters and required completion of the Capstone Character Workshop. A fourth violation may result in suspension for up to a year.
For student organizations, indoor gatherings are limited to 50 attendees, and outside gatherings are limited to 100 attendees. All on-campus gatherings must be registered with the Office of Student Involvement. A first violation will result in a written warning, and the group will lose the ability to host on or off-campus events for a designated period of time. The group’s executive officers and advisor will also be required to take health and safety training. Additional violations will result in more severe punishments, including removal from the campus for one academic year for the fourth violation.
Employees will receive verbal counseling for the first violation, written counseling for the second violation, a final warning and three-day unpaid suspension for the third violation, and termination for the fourth violation.
To learn more, click here.
August 12, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $26 million of CARES Act funds to be used for the Alabama Agriculture Stabilization Program, which will be administered through the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. Funds will be allocated as follows:
- Direct Payment Business Stabilization Grants to Cattle Producers – $10.5 million
- Meat Processing Plant Reimbursement Program- $1.5 million
- Poultry Farmer Stabilization Grant Program- $4 million
- Catfish Processor Reimbursement Program- $500,000
- Fruit & Vegetable Processor Reimbursement Program- $500,000
- State Supplemental CFAP Grant Program- $8 million
- Nursery Grower Reimbursement Program- $1 million
To learn more, click here.
August 11, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $7 million in CARES Act funds to support two grant programs of the Alabama Department of Mental Health (“ADMH”). $1 million is designated for the Crisis and Recovery Services program and will be used to develop a crisis hotline to help direct individuals to the appropriate services. $6 million is designated for the Community Provider Reimbursement program, which will allow ADMH to reimburse approximately 300 providers that offer services to those suffering from mental illness, substance use and developmental disabilities.
To learn more, click here.
August 7, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $100 million of CARES Act funding to support two grant programs of up to $50 million each for nursing homes and hospitals responding to the coronavirus pandemic. The funding will be used for coronavirus-related operational expenses, including PPE, cleaning, and personnel costs. The Alabama Nursing Home Association Education Foundation, in partnership with the state, will administer the funds for all of Alabama’s nursing home facilities. The Alabama Hospital Association, using criteria established by the state, will administer funds to hospitals.
To learn more, click here.
August 6, 2020
City of Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox entered an executive order effective August 6, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. restricting occupancy to 50% at bars and similar businesses that hold alcohol licenses beginning at 9:00 p.m. each night and restricting clubs and entertainment venues to 25% occupancy limit at all times. Earlier in the week on August 4, 2020, the Tuscaloosa City Council voted to grant Mayor Maddox executive powers needed to regulate businesses through executive order.
To view the order, click here.
August 5, 2020
The University of Alabama Board of Trustees voted to spend $1.2 million to rent 252 apartments in the Lofts at City Center to free up space in campus dorms. This will leave 450 beds in apartment-style dorms on campus to isolate students who live on campus who are diagnosed with COVID-19.
To learn more, click here.
August 4, 2020
The Jefferson County Board of Education voted to provide online-only instruction for the first nine weeks of school, which will begin on September 1st to allow teachers and parents time to plan.
Shelby County Schools also moved to a staggered schedule for those students that have chosen the in-person attendance option. The staggered schedules will include with two rotating days on campus based on students’ last names and three days of virtual learning. The school year for Shelby County Schools is scheduled to begin on August 17th.
To learn more, click here.
August 3, 2020
Hoover City Schools will begin the 2020-2021 school year with a staggered schedule for students who chose the in-person learning option. The staggered schedules will include with two rotating days on campus based on students’ last names and three days of virtual learning.
To learn more, click here.
July 29, 2020
Alabama Department of Public Health released a Back to School Toolkit that details, among other items, actions schools should take when a student or teacher has symptoms, how to use the county risk dashboard to make decisions, and which forms to use to report an outbreak.
In particular, anyone with symptoms and those in “close contact” should be sent home. If the person ultimately tests positive for COVID-19, there is a two week quarantine period before returning to school.
To view the toolkit, click here.
July 30, 2020
Governor Ivey announced a $50 million grant program to support nonprofit and faith-based organizations impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The program will be administered through Alabama’s Department of Finance and offer cash grants up to $15,000 per entity that meets eligibility requirements.
To learn more, click here.
July 29, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a Fifteenth Supplemental State of Emergency extending the Safer at Home health order though August 31st by incorporating Alabama State Public Health Officer Scott Harris’ amended public health order. In addition to extending existing restrictions and the face covering requirement, the order requires masks or face coverings in schools and colleges for employees and students in the second grade and above if social distancing requirements cannot be maintained.
To view the orders, click here.
July 27, 2020
The Alabama Beverage Control Board held an emergency meeting on July 27th and voted unanimously to restrict on-premise alcohol sales at bars, restaurants and clubs at 11:00 p.m. each night with the requirement that all alcohol must be consumed by 11:30 p.m. The Board’s order goes into effect August 1st.
To learn more, click here.
July 24, 2020
The State of Alabama will test more than 200,000 college students for COVID-19 before they return to campus this fall. The program, GuideSafe, is being implemented in more than 50 colleges and universities in Alabama and will pay for testing through funds allocated to the state by the CARES Act. GuideSafe was developed by UAB, the Bruno Event Team, HudsonAlpha, the University of South Alabama and other partners.
To learn more, click here.
July 22, 2020
Birmingham City Schools will begin the year with remote learning through the first nine weeks. To learn more, click here.
Montgomery County Public Schools will begin the year with remote learning through the first nine weeks. To learn more, click here.
The three school systems in Madison County – Huntsville City, Madison County and Madison City school districts – will begin the school year with remote learning through the first nine weeks. To learn more, click here.
July 21, 2020
Governor Ivey announced that Alabama driver license holders will be allowed to renew their licenses online a second time during a 12-year period in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Previously, license holders were limited to one online renewal every eight years. Now, if Alabama driver license holders renewed their license using the online system prior to the pandemic, they may now renew a second time during the next four years. To learn more, click here.
Bessemer City Schools will start the school year online for at least the first four weeks beginning August 20th. To learn more, click here.
Tuscaloosa City Schools will start the school year online for the first nine weeks.To learn more, click here.
July 20, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $70 million to support the Alabama State Department of Education’s Education Health and Wellness Grant Program, which provides funds to local education agencies for the purpose of minimizing exposure and spread of COVID-19 in Alabama’s public school system. The funds may only be used for the following:
- Funding salaries or wages for health care professionals to COVID-19 response or care;
- Contracting for specimen collection and testing for COVID-19;
- Proving temporary facility improvements and supplies for nurses’ work areas for COVID-19 responses;
- Creating isolation areas for symptomatic students;
- Providing temperature screening equipment; or
- Modifying school transportation to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19.
Governor Ivey also awarded $100 million to support the Educational Remote Learning Devices Grant Program to fund the purchase of electronic devices and software, related training and maintenance services in order to facilitate remote virtual learning and overall continuity of learning in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
To learn more, click here.
July 17, 2020
The University of Alabama released its plan for Coronavirus testing. All students must test negative for COVID-19 within 14 days before returning to campus this fall. For in-person testing, there will be 14 testing sites around the state. At-home kits will be provided for out-of-state students and include a nasal swab that must be mailed back to the lab. The in-person and at-home testing options will be free. Private testing is a third option, but expenses will not be covered by the university.
To learn more, click here.
July 16, 2020
Mobile County Schools, Alabama’s largest school district, announced that it will begin the school year remotely for all students on September 1, 2020, for at least the first nine weeks. Selma City Schools and Macon County previously announced that they would begin the school year remotely.
To learn more, click here.
July 15, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a Fourteenth Supplemental State of Emergency incorporating Alabama Public Health Officer Scott Harris’ amended order. The order requires persons in the state who are seven years of age or older to wear face masks or other facial coverings in when within 6 feet of persons of another household in public places, including outdoor public spaces where ten or more people are gathered, indoor spaces open to the general public, and vehicles operated by a transportation service.
The order contains several exceptions, including medical conditions or disabilities, medical and dental procedures, certain essential job functions and certain exercise activities. Face coverings are strongly encouraged, but not required, when persons are voting or actively providing or participating in religious worship. To view the Fourteenth Supplemental State of Emergency, click here. To view the amended Order of the State Health Officer, click here.
July 14, 2020
The Alabama ABC Board extended its emergency order that allows curbside and to-go sales of alcoholic beverages at licensed locations until September 15, 2020.
To learn more, click here.
July 11, 2020
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State John Merrill have advised counties and cities they cannot require voters to wear masks or face coverings when at polling places, despite local ordinances mandating face coverings in public places.
To learn more, click here.
July 8, 2020
The Alabama Department of Commerce and the City of Auburn are awarding $250,000 to OraSecure LLC to help develop its COVID-19 saliva collection device. OraSecure LLC will use the funds to begin mass production of its devices and finish validation needed from the FDA. To learn more, click here.
Governor Ivey announced a $100 million small business grant program called Revive Alabama to support small businesses that have been affected by the coronavirus. Qualifying businesses may receive up to $15,000 to reimburse for pandemic-related expenses if they have not received federal assistance for them already. The grant application is accessible through the Alabama Department of Revenue’s Revive Alabama website. The application period opens at noon on July 16 and closes at midnight on July 25th. To learn more, click here.
The Decatur City Council voted in favor of an ordinance requiring persons over the age to two to wear a face covering or mask in indoor businesses or venue spaces open to the general public, on public transportation and in outdoor settings where 10 or more people are gathered, and social distancing cannot be maintained. The ordinance allows parents to decide if children under nine must wear face coverings and allows schools and daycares to develop their own policies. Exceptions to the face covering requirement include medical exams or procedures, places of worship, indoor athletic facilities, and to preserve personal safety. The ordinance will become effective upon signature by the mayor. To view the ordinance, click here.
July 7, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded over $18.27 million of CARES Act funds to coronavirus testing in Alabama nursing homes. The Alabama Nursing Home Association Education Foundation will administer the funds in partnership with the state and will provide a Skilled Nursing Facility COVID-19 testing strategy and screening protocols. To learn more, click here.
Jefferson County received $115 million in CARES Act funding that was approved by the Alabama Legislature in May. $25.7 million is allocated to Jefferson County cities, with Birmingham being allotted over $9 million. Cities must apply for the funds and may only use them for certain COVID-19 expenses incurred between March 1, 2020 and December 30, 2020 that were not budgeted for before March 27, 2020. To learn more, click here.
July 6, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded $48 million of the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund to the Alabama Department of Education to be used to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. The funds are allocated as follows: $10 million to equip all school buses with WiFi capabilities; $4 million to improve remote learning opportunities; $26 million to provide additional academic support to bridge learning and achievement gaps; and $9 million to support intensive before and after school tutoring resources. Alabama institutions of higher education will be able to submit requests for a collective reimbursement of up to $50 million of federal CARES Act funds. To learn more, click here.
Madison County Health Officer Dr. Karen Landers issued a health order requiring residents over two years of age to wear face coverings in public beginning July 7, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. The order contains various exceptions, including when wearing face coverings poses a significant mental or physical health, safety or security risk and participating in permitted indoor athletic activities. Face coverings are strongly recommended, but not required, in places of worship where six feet of social distancing may not be maintained. Businesses and venues open to the public must post a notice that face coverings are required inside at all public entrances. To learn more, click here.
July 2, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey issued a Thirteenth Supplemental State of Emergency extending the public health emergency by an additional sixty days from July 11, 2020, until September 9, 2020. The order also includes provisions allowing members of non-profit corporations to meet remotely.
To view the order, click here.
July 1, 2020
The Mobile City Council passed an ordinance requiring face coverings in public places within the city limits during the month of July. Section 3 includes exceptions to the ordinance, including children under the age of 10, certain outdoor activities and when “substantial mental or physical health, safety or security risk” could result from wearing a face covering.
To view the ordinance, click here.
June 30, 2020
Alabama
Governor Ivey issued a Twelfth Supplemental State of Emergency incorporating State Health Officer Scott Harris’ Amended Public Health Order extending the current “Safer at Home” order through July 31, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. The orders make no major changes in the limitations currently in place other than extending the deadline.
To view the Twelfth Supplemental State of Emergency, click here. To view the amended Public Health Order, click here. To view a fact sheet concerning the order, click here.
Tuscaloosa
The Tuscaloosa City Council unanimously voted to adopt an ordinance requiring residents to wear a face covering or mask in public places within the city limits. Public places include: indoor spaces of businesses and venues open to the public, transportation services available to the general public, and gatherings in outdoor areas open to the general public where social distancing cannot be maintained. Section 3 lists exceptions to the order, including children under the age of two, people for whom a face covering poses a greater health, safety or security risk, and places of worship, among others listed in the order. The ordinance will take effect on July 6th and will last to August 5th. Mayor Walt Maddox is expected to sign the ordinance on July 1st.
To view the ordinance, click here. To learn more, click here.
June 29, 2020
The Alabama Department of Labor announced that it is implementing a federal extended benefits program that may provide 13 additional weeks of unemployment benefits to Alabamians who exhausted both their unemployment benefits and the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits. Eligible individuals can begin claiming benefits on July 5, 2020. To learn more, click here.
Governor Ivey awarded $30 million in CARES Act funds to be used to support two programs, Testing for Alabama and Stay Safe Together. Both programs will be implemented through a partnership between the Alabama Department of Public Health and UAB.
Testing for Alabama will create a re-entry testing platform focused primarily on Alabama’s public universities and colleges. Additional testing will be implemented in various underserved regions with identified health care disparities.
Stay Safe Together is a COVID-19 notification app currently in development by UAB and backed by Google and Apple technology. It includes an assessment tool that allows individuals to log their coronavirus-related health status.
To learn more, click here.
June 26, 2020
Jefferson County Health Officer Mark Wilson issued an order requiring persons over two years of age to wear face coverings or masks in public places within Jefferson County. Section 3 of the order lists several exceptions, including persons for whom face coverings pose a health, safety or security risk, places of worship, and persons participating in indoor athletic activities, among other exceptions.
Businesses are to develop their own policies and procedures regarding face coverings for employees in places not open to the general public that are in accordance with the CDC and Alabama Department of Public Health Guidelines, but they must comply with the order in spaces open to the general public. Businesses and venues open to the general public must post a notice at all public entrances stating that face coverings are required inside. The order goes into effect June 29, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. and will continue in effect until a determination is made that public health conditions warrant discontinuation. To view the order, click here.
City of Selma Mayor Darrio Melton issued an order requiring the wearing of face masks or coverings in public places. The order lists several exceptions, including outside gatherings of less than 10 people if social distancing can be maintained. The order goes into effect at 5:00 p.m. on June 27, 2020. To learn more, click here.
State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey announced that Alabama intends to reopen K-12 public schools for in-class instruction this fall. However, virtual school will be available to all students, and local school districts will make decisions about how they reopen. The state has used a large portion of the coronavirus funding it has received to acquire a statewide remote learning curriculum to make virtual options available to all districts. To learn more, click here.
June 25, 2020
Governor Ivey announced a Broadband Working Group, which will be facilitated by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. The group will gather input and provide guidance on allocation of Alabama’s 1.9 billion CARES Act monies. Alabama Act 2020-199 appropriated up to $300 million to Alabama for expenditures related to technology and infrastructure associated with remote instruction and learning and divided funds into 10 categories.
To learn more, click here.
June 20, 2020
The City of Montgomery nightly curfew that has been in effect since March 27th has now been lifted effective immediately in light of the Mayor’s June 17th executive order requiring the wearing of face coverings or masks in public.
To learn more, click here.
June 17, 2020
City of Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed issued an executive order requiring the wearing of face coverings or masks by persons two or older in public places a within the City of Montgomery when there are 10 or more people present. The order also applies to people in outdoor spaces when there are 10 or more people within 6 feet of each other. Section 2 of the order lists exceptions to the face covering and mask requirement, including during exercise and when wearing a face covering or mask poses a greater health risk. The order is effective beginning at 5:00 p.m. on June 19th and continues until rescinded, superseded or amended.
The Montgomery City Council previously voted on June 16th against an ordinance requiring face masks in public locations with groups of 25 or more, but did vote unanimously in favor of a resolution recommending face masks in public.
To learn more, click here. To view the order, click here.
June 9, 2020
The University of Alabama System has developed a plan for reopening its three campuses in Birmingham, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa in light of the coronavirus pandemic. The plan includes provisions for testing, contact tracing, masks and PPE, housing, athletics, Greek life, classroom instruction, recreation centers, cleaning, and isolation/quarantine. To learn more, click here.
Governor Kay Ivey issued an Eleventh Supplemental State of Emergency that contains various provisions to manage COVID-19 among Alabama’s inmate population. The order ratifies the Department of Corrections’ (DOC) 30-day moratorium on inmate intake issued on March 20th and directs the DOC to develop and implement revised inmate intake procedures in light of the COVID-19 public health emergency. The order also grants immunity for county and DOC employees whose job function relates substantially to the care, control and/or custody of state inmates incarcerated in county jails by designating them as “emergency management workers,” as long as they comply with the order. To view the order, click here.
The Birmingham City Council extended the ordinance requiring face covering or masks while in public to July 3, 2020. To learn more, click here.
SiO2 Materials Science, located in Auburn, Alabama, has been awarded a $143 million federal contract to produce packaging for the storage of COVID-19 vaccines. The company has developed patented containers for drugs and vaccines.
To learn more, click here.
June 8, 2020
The Mobile County Commission, in collaboration with the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, established a $500,000 “Small Business Relief Fund” to assist small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The funds are from a budget dedicated to industrial development authority funding, and if needed, another $500,000 may be appropriated from the county’s general fund later in the year. Eligible businesses are those with 100 or fewer full-time employees as of February 29th. Such businesses can obtain up to $25,000 in grants based on demonstration of need, and all applications will be reviewed by a five-member volunteer committee.
To learn more, click here.
June 5, 2020
Governor Ivey awarded more than $17 million in Community Services Block Grants to 20 community action agencies to provide relief to individuals who have faced hardships as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants.
To learn more, click here.
June 4, 2020
Governor Ivey announced a Coronavirus Relief Fund Expenditure Request Form in order for the public to submit ideas for how Alabama’s portion of the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund should be spent. The funds can only be used to cover certain expenses, which are stated in the form. To learn more and access the form, click here.
The University of Alabama Board of Trustees voted to resume limited in-person classes this summer on the campus in Tuscaloosa, with a full return to in-person learning fall semester on all three campuses in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Huntsville. Return to in-person classes is premised on the implementation and use of a COVID-19 symptom tracker developed by UAB Health System experts. To learn more, click here.
May 29, 2020
The Birmingham City Council issued an amended ordinance extending the requirement that face coverings or masks be worn in public through June 12, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. Fines for violation of the ordinance are graduated fines beginning at $25 for the first offense and increasing for each offense after. To learn more, click here.
May 26, 2020
The Birmingham City Council issued an amended ordinance extending the requirement that face coverings or masks be worn in public through May 29, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. Persons working alone in separate office spaces or in non-public workplaces with adequate social distancing do not need to wear a face covering or mask at all times. However, if social distancing cannot be maintained or there is a gathering of 10 or more people, then persons must wear a face covering or mask. To view the amended ordinance, click here.
Jefferson County Health Officer Mark Wilson issued an amended order adopting most of the provisions of the state’s amended “Safer-at- Home” order issued May 21st. The only substantial difference is that “higher-risk businesses and activities” in Jefferson County are to remain closed until June 6, 2020. “Higher-risk businesses and activities” are defined as entertainment venues in Section 9 of the order and include night clubs, concert venues, tourist attractions, racetracks, indoor children’s play areas, venues operated by social clubs. To view the order, click here.
The Jefferson County Department of Health published guidelines for faith-based organizations and pools and splash pads, which may be viewed here and here.
May 22, 2020
Alabama has contracted with Google and Apple for a new tracing app to help slow the spread of Covid-19. The tracing app will use Bluetooth that will send a notification to anyone recently near a person who tests positive for COVID-19. The notification will advise the person to contact their healthcare provide for testing. Users can decide whether or not to opt-in to exposure notifications, and if a person is diagnosed with COVID-19, it is their decision whether or not to report to the app. North Dakota and South Carolina have also contracted for the tracing technology. To learn more, click here.
The Alabama State Department of Education has issued guidelines to aid Alabama schools in their resumption of summer schedules, which could start as early as June 1st. The guidelines call for masks, limited ratios of 12 students to one teacher, and regular sanitization of all shared spaces. The new guidelines cover four areas: group size and physical standards, symptom monitoring, environmental cleaning and personal hygiene, and safe food and transportation options. These guidelines are not requirements. Click here to view the guidelines.
May 21, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey and State Health Officer Scott Harris issued an amended “Safer at Home” order that is in effect from May 22nd at 5:00 p.m. until July 3, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. Subject to social-distancing and sanitation rules and guidelines provided in the order, the Safer-at-Home order allows:
- Entertainment venues, including theaters, arcades and bowling alleys, to reopen on May 23rd.
- Team athletic activities to start limited practices beginning on May 23rd and competitions beginning on June 15th.
- Educational institutions to reopen on June 1st.
- Childcare facilities to reopen on May 23rd and certain limitations established under previous orders are removed, including limits on numbers.
- Summer camps to reopen on May 23rd.
To view the amended “Safer at Home” order, click here.
Governor Kay Ivey issued a Tenth Supplemental State of Emergency providing that the protections against eviction set forth in prior orders will expire at 12:00 a.m. on June 1, 2020.
To view the Tenth Supplemental State of Emergency, click here.
May 20, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey announced that Alabama will receive $3.3 million in CARES Act funds for qualified applicants in the state’s seafood industry, including commercial fishing businesses, charter/for-hire fishing businesses, qualified aquaculture operations, seafood processors, and the fishing ecosystem and environment. The state will also receive an additional $8.6 million in federal fisheries disaster relief funds related to 2019 freshwater flooding that negatively impacted fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico.
May 19, 2020
The Mobile City Council approved a “restaurant recovery policy” allowing the city’s restaurants, bars and breweries to use the public right-of-way, such as parking lots and sidewalks, for additional outdoor dining. The policy will be in effect for at least 30 days after the expiration of Alabama’s State Health Order, which is set to expire May 21st. Applications are through the city’s administrative offices, and businesses licensed to serve alcohol must notify the ABC Board of their intention to provide outdoor service. City of Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson signed a tandem order on May 18th that suspended enforcement of city codes prohibiting business from using the public right-of-way.
To learn more, click here.
May 18, 2020
The Alabama Legislature approved Governor Ivey’s plan for using $1.8 billion in CARES Act funds. The plan directs the funds into categories, including reimbursements to state and local governments for coronavirus expenses, delivery of health care and related services, and support for individuals, businesses and organizations affected by the pandemic. To learn more, click here.
May 13, 2020
Alabama businesses obtained more than $1.5 million in small business loans in the second round of the Paycheck Protection Program. The Paycheck Protection Program has paid out approximately $189 billion in the second round of loans to more than 2.5 million companies across the country.
To learn more, click here.
May 12, 2020
- The Birmingham City Council issued an ordinance amending the “Shelter in Place Order.” The ordinance extends the requirement that people in the City of Birmingham wear face coverings until May 22nd. Also, the 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. curfew previously in place for Birmingham is no longer in effect. To learn more, click here.
- The City of Birmingham provided guidelines for restaurants operating within the city limits. Phase I of the guidelines provides for continued curbside ordering and pick up and allows for restaurants to re-open at half of normal maximum occupancy if social distancing may be maintained. However, Bar areas should remain closed to prevent congregation, and there should be no live music or events that could draw a crowd. The benchmark for moving the next phase in the plan for re-opening is improvement/stability in the Jefferson County rates of new cases of COVID-19 per day for 28 days. The guidelines also include provisions for environmental controls and cleaning and protective measures for staff and patrons. To view the guidelines, click here.
May 8, 2020
Governor Ivey issued a Ninth Supplemental State of Emergency extending the state of emergency during the COVID-19 pandemic for another 60 days, which extends the state of emergency until July 13. Additional provisions in the proclamation include a provision regarding financing for Rural Electric Cooperatives, rules for the July 14, 2020 Primary Runoff Election, and clarifications regarding protections against evictions.
To view the proclamation, click here.
Governor Ivey issued an Eighth Supplemental State of Emergency providing liability protections for businesses, health care providers and other covered entities as specified in the order.
- Paragraph I.C.1 of the proclamation provides that businesses, health care providers and other covered entities are not liable for claims related to Covid-19 transmissions or certain response activities (as defined in the order) unless a claimant can show “by clear and convincing evidence that the claimant’s alleged death, injury, or damage was caused by the business health care provider, or other covered entity’s wanton, reckless, willful or intentional misconduct.”
- Paragraph I.C.2 limits damages for claims related to Covid-19 transmissions and response activities to actual economic compensatory damages and excludes non-economic or punitive damages. However, this limitation does not apply to claims of serious physical injury or wrongful death.
- Paragraph I.C.3 provides that for any claims related to Covid-19 transmissions or certain response activities that accrued prior to the Eighth Supplemental State of Emergency, the claimant must show that the business, health care provider, or other covered entity did not reasonably attempt to comply with the then applicable public health guidance. It also limits damages for such claims to economic compensatory damages, with an exception for claims of serious physical injury or wrongful death.
To view the proclamation, click here.
While not an official order, Dr. Mark Wilson, Chief Health Officer of the Jefferson County Department of Health, recommends that Alabama citizens avoid large groups for at least two more weeks.
To learn more, click here.
Governor Ivey issued an amended Safer at Home order, which allows close-contact services, athletic facilities, restaurants, bars and breweries to resume operations on May 11, 2020 under certain hygiene and social distancing restrictions listed in the order. The amended order no longer includes the 10-person restriction on gatherings and beaches, but still prohibits gatherings of any size that cannot maintain six-foot distance between persons from different households. Certain “higher-risk businesses and activities” are still closed, including entertainment venues such as night clubs, theaters, and bowling alleys.
To view the order, click here. To view a fact sheet about the order, click here.
May 5, 2020
The Mobile City Council approved a resolution urging, but not requiring, all citizens to wear a face covering when entering or working at a business.
To learn more, click here.
May 1, 2020
The Birmingham City Council approved an ordinance effective May 1, 2020 requiring the wearing of a face covering for individuals over two years old when outside of their home or car. Exceptions include individual outdoor exercise, patients in exam rooms of medical or dental offices where there is a necessity to examine or treat the mouth or nasal area, or when wearing a face covering poses a greater health, safety or security risk.
To learn more, click here.
April 30, 2020
The Birmingham City Council approved an ordinance effective on April 30, 2020 extending and amending its prior shelter-in-place order until 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2020. The new ordinance establishes a “Safer in Birmingham Curfew” daily from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Section 1(a) lists exceptions to the curfew, including public safety or emergency services activities; first responders, persons seeking essential services or commodities, and persons supplying or restocking businesses in order to provide essential services or products.
The ordinance also adopts the restrictions detailed in the state’s “Safer at Home” order.
To view the ordinance, click here.
April 28, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey and State Health Officer Scott Harris issued a “Safer at Home” order effective at 5:00 p.m. on April 30, 2020 through May 15, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. The key provisions of this order are as follows:
- Individuals are encouraged to stay at home and follow certain safety precautions listed in Section 1 of the order, including minimizing travel outside the home, wearing face coverings, and frequently disinfecting.
- All retail stores may open, but are limited to 50% occupancy rate and must follow social distancing and sanitation rules.
- Beaches are open to gatherings of 10 or fewer persons if social distancing guidelines can be followed. Gatherings of over 10 people are still prohibited.
- Elective medical procedures are allowed unless prohibited in the future by the State Health Officer.
- The following restrictions from the stay-at-home order are still in effect:
- Entertainment venues, athletic facilities and gyms, close-contact service providers, as described in Section 7 of the order, are to remain closed.
- Restaurants, bars and breweries are limited to take-out, curbside or delivery.
- Regular programming at Senior Citizen Centers, except meals through curbside pick-up or delivery is still suspended.
- Educational institutions are closed to in-person instruction
- Child care facilities must not allow 12 or more children in a room.
- Hospitals and nursing homes must continue to restrict visitors.
To view the order, click here.
April 24, 2020
Alabama
Governor Ivey announced that auto insurers have returned more than $100 million in premiums to more than two million Alabama policyholders. Auto insurers are instituting premium return programs because there have been fewer accidents due to fewer miles being traveled.
To learn more, click here.
Governor Ivey stated that the statewide stay-at-home order will remain in effect at least through April 30, 2020. The Alabama Coronavirus Task Force is meeting on Monday, April 27th to examine recommendations and evaluate how and when the state can reopen.
To learn more, click here.
Mobile
The Downtown Mobile Alliance’s Downtown Strong Small Business Impact Fund is encouraging small businesses impacted by coronavirus to start fundraisers at GoFundMe.com. If a business raises at least $500 on GoFundMe and meets certain other requirements, it is eligible for a $500 grant from the Small Business Relief Fund. The program is open to businesses and non-profits located at street-level within the Hank Aaron Loop or that are a Downtown Mobile Alliance member non-profit.
To learn more, click here.
April 22, 2020
Alabama
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, announced that Alabama has been approved to operate the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (“Pandemic EBT”). Pandemic EBT is a new program that provides financial assistance through a supplemental food purchasing benefit to the families of children eligible for free or reduced-price meals who cannot access the means because of school closures. The program will provide $313.50 per eligible child.
To learn more, click here and here.
Birmingham
Small businesses and nonprofits in Birmingham that were unable to apply for Paycheck Protection Program loans because they lacked a relationship with a bank or a lender will likely soon be able to apply for such loans with the help of BhamStrong and HOPE Credit Union. Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses is the initiative’s liquidity sponsor, enabling HOPE to make over $5M in loans available to local businesses once the federal government approves more funding for the Paycheck Protection Program loans.
To learn more, click here.
April 21, 2020
In a press conference today, Governor Ivey stated that while the state’s Coronavirus Task Force is reviewing the recommendations to reopen Alabama businesses, there are currently no changes to the shelter-in-place order. Governor Ivey said that testing is one of the issues for not reopening and that the COVID-19 numbers must decrease for at least 10-14 days before businesses could start to reopen.
To learn more, click here.
April 20, 2020
Governor Ivey released a statement urging Congress to add funds to the Paycheck Protection Program. Approximately 28,000 Paycheck Protection Program loans have been issued to business in Alabama, totaling around $4.9B.
To learn more, click here.
April 17, 2020
Alabama has created a new Alabama National Guard unit, Task Force 31, which is a partnership between the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs and the Alabama National Guard. Task Force 31 is trained to disinfect long-term skilled care facilities and is tasked with disinfecting Alabama’s four state-run veterans’ homes.
To learn more, click here.
Alabama Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth, the Alabama Small Business Commission Emergency Task Force, and the Subcommittee to Reopen the Economy provided a plan setting forth the health and sanitation guidelines required for businesses to reopen in Alabama. The guidelines, which have not yet been approved by the Governor, include provisions for the following industries: retail, restaurant, close-contact services, medical and health services, pharmacies, manufacturing and industrial, and real estate. There are also provisions for beaches, entertainment venues, and exercise facilities.
To view the plan, click here.
April 14, 2020
Alabama
Alabama airports will receive $54M in federal grants as part of the CARES Act to help offset losses from the coronavirus pandemic. The majority of the funding will go to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International ($18,745,394), Mobile Regional ($15,103,747) and Huntsville International ($13,785,691).
To learn more, click here.
Birmingham
The Birmingham City Council approved $1M for the Birmingham Strong Service Corps, which is a program created to provide jobs for those out of work due to the coronavirus pandemic. The funding came from the Office of Economic Opportunity and Innovation and two economic development incentives originally slated for other businesses.
To learn more, click here.
April 13, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey signed a Seventh Supplemental State of Emergency allowing the Board of Pardons and Paroles to resume pardon and parole hearings. However, individuals are not allowed to appear in person at the hearings. Instead, individuals may present their views concerning an inmate’s pardon or parole by submitting a written statement to the Board of Pardons and Paroles or contacting the Board by telephone if unable to submit a written statement.
To view the order, click here.
April 10, 2020
Alabama
Alabama healthcare providers including physicians and hospitals will receive $449.5M through the first round of federal CARES Act aid. It is not yet clear what amount of the funds will be distributed to each provider in the state. To learn more and to view a state-by-state breakdown, click here.
Mobile
Mobile Metro Jail officials announced that they released a third of the jail’s inmates in the past month to limit the spread of coronavirus. Inmates charged with non-violent crimes, who were sick, 55 or older, and those with low bonds were quickly reviewed through the court systems using Skype and Zoom. To learn more, click here.
April 8, 2020
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s Office advised that a 71-year old Alabama law prohibiting people from wearing masks in public will not be enforced against those who wear medical masks covering only the nose and mouth. To learn more, click here.
Alabama disavowed a 2010 protocol to limit ventilators that allegedly discriminated against the disabled and older adults during ventilator shortages. In response, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (“OCR”) announced “that it has resolved a compliance review of the State of Alabama after the state removed ventilator rationing guidelines that allegedly discriminated on the basis of disability and age.” To learn more, click here.
April 6, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Health have released answers to frequently asked questions about the shelter in place order for individuals and for businesses. There is also a one-page flyer located here showing which businesses are non-essential versus essential.
April 3, 2020
Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey and State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris issued a shelter in place order for Alabama residents effective at 5:00 p.m. on April 4, 2020 until 5:00 p.m. on April 30, 2020. The order requires Alabama residents to stay in their places of residence unless their activities are excepted from the order. Section 1 of the order lists exceptions to the order and include “essential activities” such as obtaining necessary supplies for themselves or others, attending certain religious services, engaging in outdoor activity and working at “essential businesses and operations.” Section 2 of the order defines “essential businesses and operations.” Essential businesses and operations are to take all reasonable steps to avoid gatherings of 10 or more persons and to maintain a distance of 6 feet between persons.
Section 6 of the order requires that “essential retailers,” like grocery stores, pharmacies and big box stores, limit occupancy to 50% of normal occupancy, keep 6 feet between customers, and comply with CDC and Alabama Department of Public Health sanitation guidance. Section 7 of the order allows all businesses to continue to operate through curbside pickup, delivery or remotely.
Section 9 of the order requires that all persons that test positive for COVID-19 are to be quarantined in their place of residence for 14 days and cannot leave their place of residence other than to seek necessary medical treatment.
To view the order, click here.
Governor Kay Ivey issued a Sixth Supplemental State of Emergency Proclamation directing all state, county and local law enforcement officers to cease enforcing any eviction orders. To view the Proclamation, click here.
Birmingham
The Birmingham City Council has amended its previous ordinance that established a “Shelter in Place Order” in the City of Birmingham. This amendment extends the Shelter in Place Order until April 30, 2020 effective immediately. To learn more, click here.
Mobile
April 3, 2020 – Mobile’s Wave Transit System suspended all Fixed Route Bus Services, including the Moda!, through May 1, 2020. The suspension does not include the Mobility Assistance Program (MAP) operated by the Wave Transit System.
To learn more, click here.
April 2, 2020
Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey issued a Fifth Supplemental State of Emergency Proclamation that expands the scope of practice for Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners, Certified Nurse Midwives, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, physician assistants and anesthesia assistants. The Proclamation also requires Licensing Boards to adopt emergency rules for expedited licensing and temporary permits for the practice of pharmacy, nursing, and medicine by out-of-state healthcare practitioners and for expedited reinstatement of certain medical licenses. The Proclamation authorizes temporary waivers to the Certificate of Need process and expedited temporary pharmacy permits.
The Proclamation also amends the Governor’s Fourth Supplemental State of Emergency Proclamation, allowing for remote notarization and witnessing of documents through videoconferencing technology. This portion of the order takes effect on April 3, 2020.
The Proclamation also contains provisions related to public meetings by governmental and quasi-governmental entities and remote shareholder meetings. There are also provisions to reduce the number of local inmates held in county jails.
The Proclamation may be viewed here.
Montgomery County
The Montgomery County Commission and the Town of Pike Road have imposed a curfew for both the incorporated area of the Town of Pike Road and the unincorporated area of Montgomery County from 10:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. seven days a week beginning April 2nd.
This curfew mirrors the curfew established by the Mayor of Montgomery for the City of Montgomery on March 27th. All of Montgomery County is now under a curfew order.
To learn more, click here.
April 1, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey urged Alabama Small Business Owners to respond to the coronavirus pandemic by applying now for federal financial relief. To learn more, click here.
March 28, 2020
Alabama Department of Health clarified the parts of its March 27, 2020 order regarding public gatherings with the following: (1) no non-work gatherings of ten or more people are permitted; (2) if a consistent six-foot distance between persons can be maintained, then non-work gatherings of less than ten people are permitted; and (3) essential businesses are permitted to have gatherings of ten or more persons, but must take all reasonable steps to avoid such gatherings and to maintain a six-foot distance between persons.
To view the Alabama Department of Health’s clarifying release, which includes a list of non-essential businesses, click here.
To see the original Alabama Department of Health order, click here.
March 27, 2020
Alabama State Health Officer Scott Harris signed a statewide Order of the State Health Officer Suspending Certain Public Gatherings Due to Risk of Infection by COVID-19 effective March 28, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on April 17, 2020. The Order suspends all non-work related gatherings of 10 persons or more, or gatherings of any size, at which a consistent six-foot distance between persons cannot be maintained. Employers must take steps to meet these standards for employees and customers. The order requires “non-essential” businesses to be closed to non-employees. Section 2 of the Order defines “non-essential” business. Some examples of “non-essential” businesses included in the order are entertainment and athletic facilities, salons, retail stores. The Order closes all schools and prohibits visitors at hospitals and care facilities, with certain exceptions listed in Section 5 and 6. Section 7 of the order postpones all dental, medical or surgical procedures, subject to exceptions. Lastly, the order prohibits on-premises consumption of food and drink at restaurants and other similar establishments.
To view the order, click here.
City of Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed has enacted a curfew beginning March 27th. The curfew requires that persons within the City of Montgomery remain in their places of residence from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. 7 days a week. Those providing or seeking essential services are excepted from the curfew, as further detailed in Sections (a) and (d) of the proclamation. The proclamation also prohibits public and private gatherings of any size where six feet cannot be maintained between persons and prohibits all travel, unless the gathering or travel falls under the exceptions in Section (d) of the proclamation.
To view the proclamation, click here.
March 26, 2020
The Mayor of Tuscaloosa has signed Executive Order 2020-007 instituting a 24-hour public safety curfew beginning Sunday, March 29th at 10 a.m. and continuing until April 11th. The Executive Order requires the closure of all “non-essential businesses and services.” Examples of non-essential businesses include: entertainment and recreation facilitates, salons, and retail stores. A full list of exemptions to the order and non-essential businesses is included in the order. The order also mandates that essential businesses must practice social distancing, and all restaurants, bars, breweries, and similar establishments can only offer take-out or delivery services. Otherwise, the order is very similar to the previous limited curfew instituted by Executive Oder 2020-006 on March 25th.
March 25, 2020
Birmingham
The Birmingham City Council approved an agreement with the Birmingham Business Resource Center allowing the city to transfer $1.2 million into the Birmingham Strong emergency small business loan fund. The loans are available to small, for-profit businesses with less than 50 employees. The business must be located within the Birmingham city limits and have been operating for at least one year. The deadline to apply is March 27th at 11:59 p.m.
The loan must be used to either: (1) limit reductions in payroll or staff size, (2) maintain business operations, and (3) fund a business model reconfiguration in response to COVID-19.
For more information, click here.
Tuscaloosa
City of Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox signed Executive Order 2020-006 establishing a limited city-wide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. that begins on Friday, March 27th and remains in effect through Friday, April 3rd. There are various exceptions to the curfew.
The order requires all persons within the City of Tuscaloosa to remain in their places of residence. Certain persons and activities are exempted from the curfew. The order also prohibits private and public gatherings of 25 or more persons where a consistent distance of six feet cannot be maintained, unless the gatherings are for exempt activities. Lastly, the order prohibits all travel unless related to exempt activities.
To view the order, which includes the exempt activities, click here.
March 24, 2020
The City of Birmingham passed a shelter in place ordinance effective immediately until April 3, 2020 at 12:00 a.m. The ordinance applies to residents and businesses in the City of Birmingham. Businesses not on the nonessential businesses may keep operating, and the ordinance does not close any additional businesses beyond those already ordered closed by the Jefferson County Department of Health. Under the ordinance, residents will be asked to remain at home and only leave for essential purposes. Those purposes include work, visiting essential businesses like grocery stores, financial institutions and gas stations, retrieving curbside pickup from restaurants; attending doctor’s appointments, and exercising outside, including biking, hiking and running – as long as six feet of social distancing is used. Violation is punishable by 180 days in jail or up to a $500 fine.
The ordinance may be found here.
March 23, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey issues a third supplemental state of emergency postponing the 4/15 tax deadline to 7/15/20 for the following taxes:
- Individual income tax
- Corporate income tax
- Financial institutions excise tax
- Business privilege tax
Additionally, the Commissioner of Revenue has been given authority to waive interest through July 15 for any tax payment due with connection to a tax return with a due date on or after March 15.
The order may be found here.
March 22, 2020
The Jefferson County Health Department has ordered more types of businesses to close, including retail stores, barbershops and hair salons. The closures must be in place by 5:00 p.m. on March 23rd. The order may be found here. A list of all nonessential businesses may be found here.
March 21, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey announced today that small businesses across Alabama negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic are eligible for assistance under the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Businesses must qualify for EIDL assistance. For more information, go to the SBA’s COVID-19 disaster assistance web page.
March 20, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) on Friday issued an update to the statewide health order to aid in Alabama’s efforts to contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Effective today, all non-work related gatherings of 25 persons or more, or non-work related gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited. Employers shall take all reasonable steps to meet these standards for employees and customers.
The updated order also expands the availability of child daycare in the state as long as certain guidelines are followed, and includes clarifying language regarding senior citizen centers and schools.
The updated health order is available here.
March 19, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) on Thursday issued a statewide health order to aid in Alabama’s efforts to contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Statewide through April 5:
- All gatherings of 25 persons or more, or gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited. This Order shall apply to all gatherings, events or activities that bring 25 or more persons in a single room or single space at the same time.
- Any restaurant, bar, brewery or similar establishments shall not permit on-premise consumption of food or drink. Governor Ivey continues to encourage patrons to visit their local eateries for take-out or delivery provided the social distancing protocols include maintaining a consistent six-foot distance between persons are followed.
- All beaches will be closed effective today at 5:00 p.m. For clarification, the term “beach” means the sandy shoreline area abutting the Gulf of Mexico, whether privately or publicly owned, including beach access points.
- Preschools and childcare centers will be closed effective at close of school or business today. This shall not apply to licensed childcare centers that provide services exclusively to employees with: State and Local Governments, First Responders (including EMS and Fire Services), Law Enforcement, Hospitals, Nursing Home/Long Term Care Facilities (including Assisted Living and Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities), End Stage Renal Disease Treatment Centers, Pharmacies and grocery stores.
- Effective immediately, all Hospitals and Nursing Home/Long Term Care Facilities (including Assisted Living and Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities) shall prohibit visitation of all visitors and non-essential health care personnel, except for certain compassionate care situations such as maternity and end-of-life.
- All elective dental and medical procedures shall be delayed, effective immediately.
The statewide social distancing order is available here.
March 18, 2020
Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced the Primary Runoff Election would be held on July 14, 2020 due to the concerns surrounding the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.
The order also requires the closure of all K-12 public schools at the end of the day Wednesday, March 18, 2020, with reopening scheduled for the start of school on Monday, April 6, 2020, should circumstances permit.
State agencies and local awarding authorities are authorized by this order to enter into contracts for goods and services without public advertisement to the extent necessary to respond to COVID-19.
The supplemental State of Emergency is available here.