Gov. Kay Ivey has added an item to the call for the special legislative session on redistricting.
In addition to redistricting, the governor included legislation on the appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to hospitals and nursing homes.
Ivey presented a proclamation on the special session, which will allow legislators to appropriate up to $80 million of ARPA funds to support the delivery of healthcare and related services related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Additionally, I have included an appropriation of $80 million in ARPA funding for eligible reimbursements for Alabama hospitals and nursing homes until the Legislature can more holistically address ARPA funding in the upcoming Regular Session in January,” said Ivey in a statement. “These folks are on the frontlines for us, and we must ensure their needs are met so they can continue caring for our families and friends. I know the men and women of the Alabama Legislature will have a productive special session, and I thank them for their continued hard work.”
As for redistricting and reapportionment of the state, legislators will consider new districts based on the 2020 federal census data. The new districts will be for electing members of the Alabama House of Representatives, the Alabama Senate, the United States House of Representatives, and the State Board of Education
“While many speculated Alabama would lose congressional representation and federal funding in the last census, in typical Alabama-fashion, we proved the naysayers wrong,” Ivey said. “Thanks to our successful count, we have secured our fair share of dollars in federal funding and our voice in Washington, which is needed now more than ever.”
Legislators will convene in the special session at the Alabama State House on Thursday, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m.
