April 24, 2023 Group Watch: Economic “Game Plan” Put Into Play By Legislature, Ivey
All four components of the landmark renewal and expansion of Alabama’s economic incentives program passed the Alabama Legislature last week. This marks a key victory for Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, and she wasted no time signing it into law (on a football, no less) and commending the legislature for its work passing the package. (Read the governor’s full statement, here.)
The core renewal bill strengthens Alabama’s focus on site development by transferring tech accelerators and support for underrepresented businesses to Innovate Alabama and encouraging development of new shovel-ready sites. The other components are poised to be an advantage for Alabama’s ability to recruit companies and create jobs.
The bills had broad approval, including the support of Alabama Big 10 Mayors, who collectively praised their final passage. The Gulf United Metro Business Organization (GUMBO), a coalition of local business leaders, also expressed excitement, noting how essential these laws will be to boost to tourism and travel in the state.