U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) are introducing companion bills to protect beachgoers. The bills are in honor of Lulu Gribbin, who was attacked by a shark off the coast of Florida in June.
“It will put needed information in the hands of beachgoers to keep their families safe,” Britt explained on X.
I introduced Lulu’s Law to empower families and beach-goers with the information that will keep them safe. @USRepGaryPalmer and I are committed to getting this bill signed into law to protect Alabama’s families. pic.twitter.com/A8EM35AZ9x
— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) August 27, 2024
Gribbin was one of three attacked by sharks on the same day. A wireless emergency alert, similar to an Amber Alert, was not sent to people in the area. If Lulu’s Law” passes, the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) could be used by local authorities to warn beachgoers of shark attacks.
“As a member of Congress, our top priority should be keeping Americans safe,” Palmer said. “Had an alert gone out, the dreadful shark attack on Lulu could have been prevented.”
“Lulu’s tremendous strength, faith, and bravery throughout her healing journey has inspired many,” he continued. “No child should have to go through what she has endured, and no parent should have to watch their children suffer as she has. By passing Lulu’s Law, we are creating a common sense solution to prevent future attacks from occurring and keep beachgoers out of harm’s way.”
Gribbin, who is from Mountain Brook, underwent several surgeries and multiple therapies. She was released from the hospital, and the city held a welcome home parade for her over the weekend.
“We want to make sure that we're doing everything we can to bring common sense to Washington DC and to put laws in place that keep families safe,” Britt continued. “I know that that's something that everybody can rally around.”
“Lulu thank you for your incredible determination, your character and the example that you've set,” she said.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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