Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey's "Safer at Home" order is now in effect. But Tuscaloosa City Council Member Kip Tyner (D-5) doesn't believe she went far enough. The governor's new health order is the first of three stages in incrementally getting Alabama's economy back to normal, or at least some form of normal. Big box stores have been operating since the corona virus pandemic began but small retail businesses had to close their doors until 5:00 pm April 30th.

Tyner doesn't like that service oriented businesses were not allowed to reopen while retail stores were. "They're selling furniture and jewelry in the big box stores yet the mom and pop businesses who are the backbone of the community and make every United Way Campaign a success, you are telling them they cannot?," the long time council member told 95.3 The Bear's Steve Shannon Morning Show.

If there is not a second spike of COVID19, the governor could move toward a second phase that would allow restaurants, barber shops, hair and nail salons to reopen as long as they follow strict health guidelines. That decision will be made in consultation with state health officials on Tuesday, May12th. Houses of worship also hope they can resume services then as well.