By Brian Lyman | Editor
“I understand the arguments on both sides, and certainly the argument that the court doesn’t have jurisdiction, and I get that argument. It’s more helpful or instructive if there is a case directly on point that’s a bright line.” - Montgomery Circuit Court Judge Brooke Reid, on Tommy Tuberville residency lawsuit
ELECTIONS 2026
By Anna Barrett
A Montgomery County circuit judge said Monday she expects the Alabama Supreme Court to have the final word on a lawsuit challenging U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s residency in Alabama and constitutional eligibility to run for governor. The comments came during a nearly-three hour hearing on a motion from Tuberville’s attorneys to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing it could only be decided if Tuberville was elected governor. Attorneys for plaintiffs said the courts and not political parties interpret the state Constitution.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
By Ralph Chapoco
A federal appeals court late last month largely upheld a lower court finding that Alabama’s mental health services in state prisons violated Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishments. But the court ordered reconsideration of some provisions, including staffing levels. Experts said that part of the order could reduce the number of staff the state has to hire but will not affect the overall push of the mental health ruling.
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Ralph Chapoco
A two-month suspension of the 2% state grocery tax ended on Tuesday. The Alabama Legislature added the holiday, which coincided with primary and primary runoff elections in May and June, to another bill dealing with taxation on overtime pay earlier this year. The holiday did not affect local levies. Alabama is one of a handful of states that taxes groceries, though legislators have cut the tax in recent years.
ICYMI
Commentary: The murder of Robin White and the limits of American promise | Brian Lyman, Alabama Reflector
Two Republicans vie for 7th congressional district nomination in special August primary | Anna Barrett, Alabama Reflector
Gov. Kay Ivey appoints Jennifer Conway to serve on Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles | Ralph Chapoco, Alabama Reflector
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