Discussions with Decision Makers: Rep. Susan DuBose

Representative Susan DuBose (R -Hoover) is the newly elected representative of district 45. Rep. DuBose worked as a residential, commercial and construction loan officer and business development officer for Compass Bank for over 12 years before becoming a stay-at-home mom to raise her two children in 1997.

She is president of the Republican Women of North Shelby County, is on the Governmental Affairs Committee and Women’s Business Council for the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Shelby County Republican Party Executive Committee. Rep. DuBose will serve as committee member on the House Health Committee.

What First prompted you to consider running for office?

I felt my District 45 was not adequately represented by someone who was active and engaged in the community. We are a diverse district that stretches from Irondale to Chelsea and includes three counties- Jefferson, Shelby and St. Clair. We are also an area experiencing considerable growth, especially Chelsea and surrounding areas of North Shelby County. We also have a very politically informed electorate that deserves a representative that will be involved and available.

How does your background help serve you in the Legislature?

For about the last 12 years I have been very involved in a support role in the Republican Party. I was President of the Republican Women of North Shelby County when I decided to run for office. I was also a member of the Shelby County Republican executive committee. As a member of those groups, I was often asked to be a conservative female voice in Montgomery at committee meetings and press briefings. The transition to running for office was easy for me because I had spent so much time in the political arena. I also consider myself a policy nerd. I love studying bills, current policy issues and comparing model legislation with other states. My degree is in finance, and I started my career in real estate and construction lending with Compass Bank. Years of analyzing financial statements should be an asset when navigating our state budgets.

What are some of your legislative priorities next term?

School choice, Women’s Bill of Rights, Womens’ Sports Bill (HigherEd), Workforce Participation Rate- (Only 57%!), Mental Health, Fentanyl Crisis, ESG.

What are some health-related issues important to your district and your constituents?

By far the most heart wrenching stories I have heard from constituents involve overdoses from Fentanyl/opioids. Usually, the story involves losing a child and the parents are pleading for help to stop this crisis. Secondly, mental health is the issue I heard most about. Law enforcement has been the most vocal, more patient facilities are needed. Teachers and principals want more help for students. Mental Health of students is becoming a larger and larger concern in today’s culture. My third concern is the impact of marijuana dispensaries opening all over the state. Even though this is supposed to be “medical marijuana” the conditions that qualify for a marijuana card are vast and most people will be able to obtain a card if they want one. The industry will continue to push until recreation marijuana is legalized. I am very concerned about the detrimental health and safety impact this will have on our state.

What do you think people understand the least about our health care system?

I should be asking you guys this question. I have a lot to learn about our health care system myself.

If you could change anything about our health care system, what would it be?

Take out the bureaucracy and make it more about relationships with doctors and their patients. I’m always about less regulation and less interference from the government. When the government is involved, more controls are placed on physicians, and patients suffer. I believe doctors should have the freedom to make medical decisions they feel are best for the patients without undo mandates from our government.

How can the Medical Association- and physicians statewide- help you address Alabama’s health
challenges?

Open and honest communication will help me. I am not a health expert; I’m not trained in any health field, but I care about the people in the State of Alabama. We all need to work together to address vital issues in our state. I asked to be on the Health Committee because I believe the most pressing issues facing our state are tied to our health.

What is the one thing you would like to say to physicians in your district?

I have the upmost respect and admiration for physicians. I know the sacrifices you made for many years to obtain the advanced education and training it takes to be a physician. Medicine is a true calling, and you are a public servant to your communities. Thank you all for your continued service and your dedication to your fields. May God be with each of you.