Mayor Reed Issues Statement Following Conclusion of the 2026 Legislative Session

"As the legislative session comes to a close, let me begin by thanking all members of the Alabama Legislature for the work they do across our state.

I want to highlight the leadership of both chambers for their engagement and for taking the time to listen to Montgomery's perspective on a number of issues. Those conversations matter, and they help ensure a more thoughtful approach to the challenges we face.

This session brought serious conversations about public safety and the role of state and local government in delivering results for our communities.

To Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth, Senate President Pro Tem Garland Gudger, House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, and all members of the Senate and House of Representatives, thank you for guiding this session and creating space for important dialogue on issues impacting cities across Alabama.

Public safety is too important for one-size-fits-all approaches. Real progress comes from strong partnerships, smart investments, and strategies that reflect the realities on the ground.

I'm grateful for the leadership of the Montgomery legislative delegation, as well as the support of Council President CC Calhoun, Councilor Charles Jinright, and other members of the Montgomery City Council for standing with our community and helping ensure our voice was clearly represented throughout this process.

I also appreciate the thoughtful engagement and input from leaders across our state, including mayors like Tommy Battle, Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, and State Representative Rex Reynolds, along with other members of the Huntsville delegation, who recognize the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in strengthening public safety.

In Montgomery, we are making progress-but that progress cannot come soon enough. We are investing in our police department, strengthening partnerships across agencies, and seeing results because of that work.

We appreciate all those in the community who have helped us accelerate that progress, and we will not rest until more progress is made, more people feel safer, and more lives are protected.

We remain committed to continuing that progress and to working with state leaders who are focused on solutions that respect local communities and deliver real outcomes.

We look forward to continuing these conversations throughout this year and into the next legislative session.

Our focus is clear: safer neighborhoods, stronger partnerships, and results that speak for themselves."