CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Regional on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, presented a plaque to Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, to honor his achievements in the Alabama Legislature and to show appreciation for what it said is his continued dedication to the Cullman community’s economic growth.
Gudger recently received the 2023 Distinguished Legislative Service in Economic Development award from the Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA).
Cullman Regional Assistant Vice President of Marketing Communications Jennifer Malone opened Wednesday’s ceremony by acknowledging the significance of a strong partnership between the community and regional employers. “Research shows that a healthier population contributes to a stronger local economy, and a stronger local economy contributes to a healthier community,” Malone stated.
“A strong economy benefits our patients, our employees and the hospital. We appreciate Sen. Gudger’s continued dedication to our community’s economic growth and congratulate him on his achievements as a state legislator,” said Cullman Regional CEO James Clements.
“I’m blessed to be able to help lead the charge for economic development throughout the whole state,” Gudger said. “I try to make sure that I bring the dollars back to this particular district, to this hospital, in any way I possibly can. I love this community; I was born and raised here. Thank you for allowing me to be here, from the bottom of my heart.”
He talked about this year’s legislative session, saying, “It’s an honor to be able to represent my district and be able to help not only my community, but the state as well. I worked really hard this last session and I feel like I had a really good overall session of passing legislation that the governor needed for economic incentives for local tourism and utilities.”
Gudger said his no. 1 focus right now is a bill that will help those with mental health issues. Nationwide, 988 is designated as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number. Right now, when Alabama residents call 988, those calls are routed to 911 centers. The 988 bill would allow Alabama residents to access the nationwide 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number. It will fund brick and mortar 988 call centers and mobile units, and provide professional training specifically for mental health emergencies. By providing access to trained professionals who can offer immediate assistance, Gudger said he envisions a vital shift away from the current practice of involving the legal system in mental health cases.
“I will reintroduce the bill again this year because there wasn’t enough time to get it passed last year,” Gudger stated.
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