The Alabama House of Representatives has passed HB437, Lulu’s Law, by Rep. David Faulkner.
Lulu’s Law is inspired by Lulu Gribbin, a 15-year-old girl from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who survived a shark attack last summer off the coast of Florida. The legislation would establish a shark alert system for Alabama’s beaches capable of sharing information to mobile devices and first responders on duty.
“Alabama’s beaches are one of our state’s greatest natural resources, and it’s important that we take every possible step to ensure families can safely enjoy their time spent there,” said Speaker Ledbetter. “Lulu is without a doubt one of our most extraordinary Alabamians and continues to set a strong example of what it means to not only overcome adversity but use it to inspire thousands. I’m proud that the House passed this bill named in her honor and have no doubt that it will save lives.”
U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) was in attendance today as the House passed Lulu’s Law. Senator Britt is carrying similar legislation at the federal level that would codify shark attacks as events for which wireless emergency alerts (WEAs) may be transmitted.
“None of our efforts to protect future beachgoers would be possible without Lulu’s faith, courage, and strength. Her testimony is an inspiration, and she has truly been a catalyst for change,” said Senator Britt. “I’m grateful for the Alabama House of Representatives passing this important legislation, and I will keep fighting in the U.S. Senate to get Lulu’s Law signed into federal law. This commonsense legislation would keep our families and children safe, and there is nothing more important than protecting the people we serve.”
Governor Kay Ivey thanked Rep. Faulkner and urged lawmakers to get this legislation sent to her desk so she can sign it into law.
“Thank you to Rep. David Faulkner and the Alabama House for giving passage to Lulu’s Law,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “HB437 will establish a shark alert system for Baldwin and Mobile counties. Let’s be Lulu strong and get this bill to my desk so I can sign it into law!”
Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) carried Lulu’s Law in the House and commended his colleagues for prioritizing this legislation in the final days of the Legislative Session.
“Lulu is from my community and served on my acolyte team at church. When I heard what happened to her last summer, I felt that I had a responsibility to pass this legislation,” said Rep. Faulkner. “Her story is so much more than what happened to her last summer. It’s a story of resilience, strength, overcoming adversity, and trusting that no matter what, God has a plan for your life. Lulu and her family are an inspiration to thousands, and I’m so thankful that my fellow members prioritized passing this important bill. As the session draws to an end, I’m committed to working as hard as I possibly can to ensure Lulu’s Law makes it to Governor Ivey’s desk.”