Gov. Kay Ivey promises to improve education, cut business regulations in inaugural address

Montgomery, Alabama (WIATMore) — Gov. Kay Ivey will begin his second term Monday morning after taking the oath of office on the steps of the Capitol.

In her speech, she shared her vision for a state with better schools, broadband access and less business regulation.

As the newly elected 54th governor, she has called education her top priority and set ambitious goals for education.

“By the end of my term, Alabama will be among the top 30 states in reading and math for the first time in history,” Ivey said.

Currently, the state’s fourth graders rank 39th in reading and 40th in math. Ivey said he will sign an executive order this week to establish the Alabama Commission on Education and Learning.

“This group of people have their boots on the ground to help advise us on the big changes we can make to recruit, retain and prepare tomorrow’s teachers.” said Ivey.

Ivey also touted the economic success of her first term, citing record low unemployment and more than $40 billion in business investments. She said she aims to cut business regulations by 25% over the next two years.

“The bottom line is that we want a government that better serves the people of Alabama,” Ivey said.

Ivey also emphasized its efforts to expand broadband. This is an initiative backed by Rep. David Standridge. He is the chairman of the House of Representatives Caucus.

“From our education to healthcare to business to economic development, we’re going to focus on that because it’s exactly what we need,” said Stanridge (R-Hayden).

Rep. Kelvin Lawrence says he agrees with the goals outlined by the governor. One of the things he wanted her to deal with was her access to healthcare.

Lawrence (D-Heineville) said, “I would love to be able to discuss that with her during the legislative process so we can make sure we continue to provide that kind of healthcare to people.” .

Ivey’s remarks were followed by a parade through downtown to conclude the afternoon’s festivities and celebrate the new day of state government.

In addition to the governor, all constitutional officials took office. Among them are Secretary of State Wes Allen and State Auditor Andrew Sorrell.