Montgomery, AL – Gov. Kay Ivey kicked off the 2026 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature Tuesday evening by delivering her ninth State of the State address, during which she announced the launch of a new statewide flood notification system.
The announcement comes in the wake of devastating flooding in Texas that claimed lives, including that of Sarah Marsh, an Alabamian who was away at a summer camp. Citing the need for stronger preparedness measures, the governor emphasized protecting families and children across the state.
“Alabama is no stranger to natural disasters,” Ivey said. “Protecting the safety of all Alabamians, especially our children, is our top priority, and this statewide flood notification system will ensure families receive timely alerts to prepare and stay safe. By launching this notification system now, we are getting ahead of Alabama’s camps serving children this summer.”
As an initial step, Governor Ivey is providing $1.2 million to fund the system in its first year. The initiative will be developed in coordination with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), with the goal of establishing the system in all 67 Alabama counties.
State Rep. David Faulkner voiced support for the effort, pointing to recent tragedies as evidence of the need for action.
“I fully support Governor Ivey’s decision to establish and fund a statewide emergency notification system,” Faulkner said. “After the tragic loss of life at the children’s camp in Texas, Alabama cannot afford to go another day without stronger protections for our children at camps, and beyond, from sudden and devastating emergencies.”
During her address, the governor urged lawmakers to consider the importance of preparing for unforeseen events. AEMA Director Jeff Smitherman echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the value of rapid communication during emergencies.
“Every second counts in an emergency. Closing the gap between information and action can save lives,” Smitherman said. “By launching the statewide notification system, we are working to bridge that gap and empower individuals to make informed decisions.”
The new initiative will enhance an existing statewide emergency notification system already administered by AEMA, which will now be used specifically to support the governor’s flood notification program. Governor Ivey is encouraging the Legislature to provide ongoing funding to sustain the system.
AEMA will continue overseeing the system’s administration, maintenance and technical management, while legislative funding appropriated through ALEA will support its execution. ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said the agency is committed to supporting the effort.
“The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is proud to support the statewide flood notification initiative led by Governor Ivey and EMA,” Taylor said. “When severe weather and flooding occur, time is of the essence, and timely, accurate alerts not only help the public take action but also give first responders the information they need to respond quickly and effectively.”
Governor Ivey concluded her remarks by reiterating her commitment to ensuring Alabama is prepared when disaster strikes.
