Tuesday night's State of the State speech by Governor Robert Bentley concentrated mainly on creating jobs, his refusal to expand Medicaid and the massive federal debt. The governor told a statewide audience that he considered Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act to be broken programs designed to keep people dependent on government programs. The governor is calling for a two percent cost of living raise for education employees. He also recommended a raise of up to four percent for state workers. But only if the state takes in more revenue than expected.
New MPS Superintendent
A veteran educator in the Montgomery Public School System has been formally named the full time school superintendent. The Montgomery County Board of Education unanimously voted to appoint Margaret Allen at a specially-called meeting Tuesday night. Ms. Allen said she is grateful for the opportunity. Allen has worked in the Montgomery Public School system for 37 years.
New Trial
A Montgomery judge ordered a new trial for an ex-physician convicted in a murder-for-hire scheme. Circuit Judge Charles Price said juror misconduct is the reason he ordered a new trial for David Nash. Judge Price issued his order Tuesday. Nash was convicted last August of capital murder in the death of Ralph McNeil, an animal trapper also known as the "Critter Man." Deputy District Attorney Kenney Gibbs said he disagreed with the judge's ruling. He said Nash received a fair trial. Nash's second trial will be held May 19th.