Governor Robert Bentley says his divorce is a private matter and thanked people for their prayers in what he described as a "difficult time." The governor made his first public appearance Wednesday since First Lady Dianne Bentley filed papers last week to end their 50-year marriage. Bentley declined to comment further about the couple's split after speaking to reporters following his speech to an economic development group. Bentley says it's a "private matter that we're working through." A judge on Monday sealed the divorce file from public view.
New Gun Laws
New gun laws taking effect in Alabama are supposed to make it more difficult for the mentally ill to buy firearms. The new laws took effect this week. They require that state probate court judges report to law enforcement every person they commit for involuntary mental health treatment. Under federal law, anyone involuntarily committed for treatment cannot buy a gun. People forced to receive treatment can appeal to have their gun ownership rights reinstated. State judges must also report anyone found not guilty of a crime because of mental illness or a mental defect.
Budget Impact
Alabama's Agriculture Commissioner called a press conference Wednesday to outline how budget cuts to his department would impact the state's economy and food safety. John McMillan thanked legislators for their help in previous years, but said any more cuts would put the entire mission of the department in jeopardy. He says even a slight reduction after years of level-funding, would have consequences. Lawmakers return for a second special session on the General Fund budget September 8th.