Listening sessions, annual meeting going online

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way a lot of groups operate, and Alabama Arise is no different. As our staff has transitioned to working remotely, we've moved our listening sessions to a virtual format. We've also decided our annual meeting will be held online Saturday, Oct. 3. Stay tuned for registration information soon.

Our Town Hall Tuesdays – online listening sessions that focus on a specific topic every other week – began in June and will continue through August. We'd love to see you at the next one this Tuesday! Click below to register for one or more of the remaining events.

Federal leaders must help ease suffering

We are both challenged and called to action by the incredible movement and possibilities of these times. With your support, are urging the state to direct the $1.9 billion share of CARES Act funding to struggling residents. We are also seeking more federal relief to support state budgets and provide direct assistance to people with low incomes. You can help make these goals a reality by contacting your U.S. senators and urging them to pass a strong fifth COVID-19 relief bill that would strengthen both SNAP and Medicaid.

We're ramping up pressure for Medicaid expansion

The double blow of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic shutdown has put Medicaid expansion in a new, more urgent light. Extending health coverage to adults with low incomes is the single biggest step Alabama can take to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on our health, health care system and economy. Medicaid is a tool to solve problems and save lives.

Read our new Medicaid Matters report to learn how Medicaid expansion would improve health care and create jobs across Alabama.

Risk of education, General Fund cuts remains after shortened Alabama legislative session

Funding for education, health care and other vital services is deeply uncertain as Alabama’s revenues plummet during the COVID-19 recession. In May, lawmakers enacted 2021 education and General Fund budgets that are larger than this year’s. But as consumer spending falls and massive unemployment persists, funding cuts remain a troubling possibility.