Dear Mobile Chamber Members,

This week marked the start of Alabama’s 2026 legislative session, and as always, it’s a critical time for our business community.

On Tuesday night, Governor Kay Ivey delivered her ninth and final State of the State address, reflecting on her administration’s accomplishments and laying out her vision for the year ahead. It was a significant moment in Alabama politics, and her leadership over these years has certainly shaped our state’s trajectory.

Governor Ivey’s tenure has been marked by historic investments in infrastructure, workforce development and economic growth. She’s presided over record-breaking economic development announcements, helped shepherd Alabama through challenging times including a global pandemic and maintained a steady focus on fiscal responsibility.

As she enters her final year in office, her legacy as Alabama’s longest-serving female governor and a champion for business growth is well-established. We’re grateful for her partnership with the business community throughout her time in office.

You may have noticed the session started a bit earlier than usual this year. That’s because we’re in the final year of the governor’s quadrennium, which shifts the start date to the second Tuesday of January. The legislature still has up to 30 legislative days to complete their work within 105 calendar days, same as always, but with the primary election date this year being on May 19, I don’t expect the session to stretch to the end of April.

On Wednesday, I traveled to Montgomery to attend the board of directors meeting for the Business Council of Alabama. It’s always valuable to be with business leaders from across the state as we discuss the issues that matter most to Alabama’s economic future. The collaboration and coordination that happens through the BCA is essential, especially as we head into a new legislative session with important priorities on the line.

Wednesday evening, I had the opportunity to attend the BCA’s legislative reception. These gatherings are more than just social events; they’re where relationships are built and strengthened, where we have candid conversations with our elected officials and where we can advocate directly for the policies that will help our businesses thrive. It was encouraging to see so many legislators engaged and ready to work on behalf of Alabama’s business community.

Speaking of advocacy, I want to remind you about the Mobile Chamber’s 2026 legislative agenda. Through the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, we’ve spent considerable time developing a thoughtful, strategic approach to the issues that matter most to southwest Alabama. From workforce development and infrastructure investment to regulatory reform and education, our agenda reflects the priorities we’ve heard from you, our members.

I encourage you to review the full document and familiarize yourself with our positions. Your voice matters, and the more we can speak with one unified message, the more effective we are.

I also want to take a moment to express my appreciation for the hard work of our Mobile and Baldwin County legislative delegations. These men and women represent our interests in Montgomery, and their dedication to our region is invaluable. I’m grateful for their partnership as we work together on the issues that matter most to our community.

Now, I want to highlight a truly special event that took place last Saturday in Mobile. Austal USA hosted the christening ceremony for the Lansing (EPF 16), and what a celebration it was. These shipbuilding milestones are always meaningful, but they’re also powerful reminders of Mobile’s critical role in our nation’s defense and maritime industries.

The Lansing was christened by two distinguished sponsors: The Honorable Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, and The Honorable Lisa McClain, U.S. Representative from Michigan. Their presence underscored the national significance of the work being done right here in Mobile and the strong connection between our Gulf Coast shipbuilding hub and the communities these vessels are named after.

It is always an honor to witness these ceremonies and see firsthand the craftsmanship and dedication of the men and women at Austal who build these incredible ships.

Events like the christening of the Lansing remind us why Mobile is such a special place. We’re a community that builds things that matter, contributes to our national security and creates good-paying jobs for thousands of families. Every ship that leaves Austal’s docks is a testament to the skill and hard work of our local workforce.

Until next week,

Originally published Friday, January 16, 2026.