Alabama governor backs shark alert system for Mobile, Baldwin counties
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House Bill 437 was introduced in response to a shark attack last year that led to Mountain Brook, Ala., teen , the release said.
'The bill … would enable Mobile and Baldwin County Emergency Management Agencies to warn individuals of a shark attack by providing for alerts to be sent to mobile cellular devices in localized areas and to first responders on duty,' the release said.
According to the release, the alert system would be activated when the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources receives a confirmed report of an unprovoked shark attacking a person close to a shoreline or coastline.
Ivey said the alert system would add a layer of safety for visitors to the Gulf Coast.
'Officials in Baldwin and Mobile counties do fantastic work to keep Alabamians and our many visitors safe when they are down enjoying our beautiful beaches,' she said. 'Establishing a shark alert system will be an added tool to keep those enjoying our Gulf of America waters safe.'
Ivey commended Rep. David Faulkner (R-Jefferson County), who introduced the legislation, and Gribbin, who has been advocating for the legislation, the release said.
'I thank Rep. David Faulkner for bringing this legislation forward, and I commend Lulu Gribbin and her family for inspiring positive change in our own state,' Ivey said.
'Lulu is truly an inspiration and awesome example of courage. Let's be Lulu strong and get this bill to my desk so I can sign it into law.'
Mobile teen sentenced to 35 years for 2021 murder of 16-year-old
The bill passed the House Committee Wednesday morning, the release said.
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