MONTGOMERY — Two bills changing how the State Health Officer is appointed passed the Senate Health Committee on Wednesday afternoon.
The State Committee of Public Health is currently made up of 12 members of the Medical Association for the State of Alabama (MASA) and appoints the State Health Officer.
Senate Bill 128 by State Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence) would change the board's makeup from being only MASA members to two members appointed by the Governor and Agriculture Commissioner. A variety of establishment medical groups would appoint the other 10 members.
"We're getting closer to common ground. I'd like to move both these out and we'll get together the following week and try and find a solution. Both of them have pros, and both of them probably need a little work," Melson said to the committee on Tuesday.
The bill would still leave the appointment powers of the State Health Officer with the State Committee of Public Health. The bill would authorize the Governor to approve or deny certain actions proposed by the State Health Officer and would prohibit certain general emergency rules, orders, and other directives issued by the State Health Officer from taking effect unless approved by the Governor.
Senate Bill 74 (SB74) by State Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville) would allow the Governor to appoint the State Health Officer. A similar bill from Givhan passed the Healthcare Committee in 2023 but never received a vote on the Senate floor.
"This is about accountability. This is about the Department of Public Health having accountability to the people through elected officials. I think there is a way that we can get there that Sen. Melson and I have been talking about using one of these bills as a vehicle. It doesn't really matter which one it is as long as we get something there that's good for the public," Givhan said.
Rob Green, a spokesman for the Alabama Department of Public Health, told 1819 News in a statement, “We appreciate the willingness of Senator Melson and Senator Givhan to work together to produce a comprehensive piece of legislation that affords Alabamians and legislators alike the accountability and transparency they seek.”
“ADPH and the State Health Officer are fully accountable to the public, the legislature, the courts, and the Governor. However, at ADPH, we recognize the need to communicate our goals and objectives to Alabamians better and ensure folks understand we’re here to help them, keep them healthy, and, in doing so, keep their families and their communities healthy as well. We’re here to work with members of the legislature, offer insight into the complexities of the public health process, and reach a solution that allows ADPH to continue our crucial work to promote and improve the health and livelihoods of all Alabamians,” Green said.
The bills will now head to the full Senate for their consideration.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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