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March is Women's History Month!

WVAS Local News

The barriers have come down at federal memorials and national parks and furloughed federal workers have returned to work today after 16 days off the job.  Only two members of the Alabama Congressional delegation, Spencer Bachus and Terri Sewell, supported a bill to reopen the federal government and raise the nation's debt ceiling. 

Infant Mortality

State health officials say Alabama's infant mortality rate increased last year to its highest rate in four years.  Officials say they were 8.9 infant deaths for every 1,000 births last year.  That means more than 500 children didn't live to their first birthday. 

Health Care Act

The Affordable Health Care Act was scrutinized last night at a workshop sponsored by 7th District Congresswoman Terri Sewell.  A few dozen people learned about the benefits of the law commonly referred to as Obamacare.  Shakita Jones with Alabama Arise said despite on-going technical glitches with a government website, Alabamians should still use it as a source of information.  The healthcare exchanges went online October 1st.  The coverage for individuals who enroll begins January 1st. 

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence was discussed at length during last night's Perspectives talk show.  Alabama State University Police Chief Jim Grayboys is spearheading a program on campus to address violence against women.  He said public awareness starts with having a conversation about the issue.  Advocates are encouraging people to participate in "Purple Lights Night" by burning a purple light every night this month to bring awareness to domestic abuse.  October is Domestic Violence Awareness month.