The House Black Caucus is proposing an alternative General Fund budget that would shift funding to critical state services that includes Medicaid, prisons, public health and law enforcement. Caucus chair, Montgomery Representative John Knight, will hold a news conference today to discuss the budget proposals. Legislators are struggling to find revenue to cover a $200 million shortfall in the General Fund.
Train Derails
A spokesman for Montgomery Fire-Rescue says a locomotive and two rail cars have derailed on North Court Street. Authorities said the rail cars are not hauling a hazardous material, however firefighters are at the scene to contain a fuel leak. There are no reports of injuries. The train derailment occurred about 6:30 a.m.
Minister Pleads Guilty
A Prattville minister who tried to perform a gay wedding in the Autauga County Probate office pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct. 44-year-old Anne DiPrizo entered the plea Monday. Circuit Judge Ben Fuller ordered her to a $250 fine and suspended her 30-day jail sentence. Authorities arrested the Unitarian minister in February.
New Bike Service
Visitors will have a new way to get around downtown Montgomery. The Montgomery Visitor Center on Water Street is starting a bicycle rental program that's available to both tourists and residents. Bicycle rental rates start at $14 for two hours.