Interrupted frequently by applause, Gov. Kay Ivey praised successes and pointed toward the future during her State of the State Address tonight in Montgomery. For the eighth time since she became Governor, Ivey has addressed lawmakers at a joint legislative session. She began with the declaration that, " the state of our state is strong, and opportunity abounds for all of Alabamians."

She touted successes like progress in education and economic development and introduced an agenda that includes legislation to would make the Department of Veterans Affairs part of the Governor's Cabinet and proposed banning cellphones and other communications devices in public schools.

“As a former teacher, I know that students cannot do their best when their learning environment is cluttered with distractions,” Ivey told a packed capitol house chamber. “Cell phones and other smart devices often dominate children’s free time and not surprisingly follow them into the classroom, lowering student achievement and contributing to discipline problems. I share the view of most Alabama teachers and parents that cell phones should be banned in the classroom.” 

The sure to be controversial bill was introduced today for Ivey on the legislature's first day of the 2025 session by Senator Donnie Chesteen (R-SD-29) and Representative Leigh Hulsey (R-HD-15). It would implement a statewide ban on the use of cell phones on public school campuses during times of instruction except as determined by local boards of education.

Chesteen's legislation also protects students from the harmful effects of social media by requiring all local boards of education to adopt an internet safety policy governing student access to the internet on school-owned devices.   

Ivey told lawmakers and a statewide TV audience that her top priority to "Back the Blue". That means she backs a package of bills to support police and crack down on felons who commit gun crimes.

“To back the blue, we will provide law enforcement with enhanced legal protections that allows them to carry out their duties courageously and effectively – without fear of Monday morning quarterbacking in the courts," Ivey to the crowd.

Ivey also threw her support behind legislation that would ban Glock switches. A devise that can converts a semi-automatic weapon into an automatic weapon.

Also in her crimefighting package is support for legislation that will allow electronic monitoring of youthful offenders if a judge believes they are a threat to commit a serious crime.

The former state treasurer and lt. governor also gave sketchy support to Tuscaloosa Democrat Chris England's “Second Chance” bill. It would allow a limited number of people serving life in prison whose crimes did not cause a physical injury to receive consideration for new sentences.

As expected, the 80-year-old chief executive voiced support for President Trump's ongoing program to deport illegal immigrants.

Ivey also introduced Abbie Stockard, a Vestavia Hills native, Auburn University nursing student, and the fourth Miss Alabama to be crowned Miss America.

Legislators get day two of the new session underway with committee meetings Wednesday.

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