Ivey Declares State Of Emergency For COVID-19 Spread

MONTGOMERY, AL — With new cases of COVID-19 increasing exponentially across the state since the previous pandemic-related state of emergency in Alabama expired, Gov. Kay Ivey Friday declared another state of emergency due to the virus.

Ivey said this state of emergency is "strategically targeted at removing bureaucracy and cutting red tape wherever we can to allow our doctors, nurses and hospital staff to treat patients that come through their doors."

The proclamation does not provide for any closures of businesses or mask mandates, but the emergency order will allow out-of-state doctors, nurses, and pharmacists to practice in Alabama under expedited licenses or temporary permits.

"Let me be crystal clear: Alabama remains open for business," Ivey said. "Alabamians do not need government telling us what to do or how to do it. Unlike last year when we were hoping for a miracle, our greatest weapon against COVID-19 today is the vaccine, so, if you can, roll up your sleeve and get the shot."

Despite a recent increase in vaccinations in Alabama, the state still ranks last in the country in percentage of residents vaccinated, and first in the country in percentage of positive COVID-19 tests.

"I am really proud that over the last month, Alabama has seen more than a 100% increase – the highest in the country – in COVID-19 vaccines being administered," Ivey said. "We owe those who have gotten the vaccine a tremendous debt of gratitude. No doubt, this will soon move us in the right direction, but at the current time, we also need to offer our frontline heroes – who are unfortunately treating a new wave of patients in Alabama’s hospitals – a helping hand as they put it all on the line to take care of our people."

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