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Gov. Kay Ivey signed bills Thursday allocating $1 billion in federal COVID-relief money and retiring $60 million in debt to the Alabama Trust Fund, marking the conclusion of the special session.
"I commend the Alabama Legislature for, once again, answering the call to invest these one-time funds wisely to make improvements in Alabamians’ quality of life, including water, sewer and broadband expansion projects, as well as health care," Ivey said. "Alabama can now look to a future of greater promise thanks to the steps we have taken this week to invest these funds wisely."
The American Rescue Act Plan Act (ARPA) appropriations include $400 million for water and sewer projects; $260 million for broadband; and $340 million for COVID-related expenses incurred by hospitals, nursing homes, Veterans’ Affairs facilities and mental health services as well as expansion of telemedicine. Another $55 million is allocated toward programs negatively impacted by the pandemic including food banks and senior services. The Senate amended the original bill to include stormwater sewer systems and set aside a portion of water and sewer money for projects with a 35% local match. The House concurred with the amendment, sending the measure to the governor.
The Legislature also approved a measure to pay back money borrowed from the Alabama Trust Fund ahead of schedule.
"Eleven years ago during more challenging economic times, the state made a pledge to repay $437 million borrowed from the Alabama Trust Fund in order to bolster the General Fund," Ivey said. "Last week, I called upon the Alabama Legislature to finally pay back the remainder of these borrowed funds, noting that unlike D.C., we pay our debts. Today, I am pleased to report that lawmakers have responded to my call by swiftly passing legislation appropriating the final $59,997,772 payment due to the Alabama Trust Fund. This is responsible stewardship of the people’s money and a fitting start to a historic session. I am proud to sign this act restoring the Alabama Trust Fund."
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