It’s been rainy here in Juneau as we’ve entered into a second special session – perfect weather for reflecting on the past 155 days. This is a longer note than usual, but please allow me to share my honest thoughts:
Read More →Video of the June 16th, 2017 End of the 1st Special Session Press Availability from 360North.org
Read More →Juneau – Tonight, to avoid a government shutdown at the beginning of the month, the Alaska House of Representatives passed a combined Capital and Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2018. The House budgets reverse the Senate’s $69 million cut to K-12 education and most of the cut to the University of Alaska. Additionally, the Capital Budget restored the full amount of expected Permanent Fund Dividends, which will be paid in the fall to eligible Alaskans.
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In times of big decisions, it’s so important to talk in-person about what’s being considered, how it impacts our community and our visions for Alaska’s future. While I am always available via email, phone and social media, there’s nothing quite like neighbors meeting and sharing face-to-face.
Read More →Juneau – Today, around 18,000 State of Alaska employees will receive pink slips. Unless the Alaska Legislature passes a budget in the next month, all non-essential state services will shut down July 1st.
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Just a friendly reminder I’ll be at the Jewel Lake Kaladi Brothers this Sunday from 2-3pm, and would love for you to join me. Bring your questions, share your thoughts, and enjoy a cup of coffee on me!
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Anchorage – Representative Matt Claman (D-Anchorage) and Representative Jason Grenn (I-Anchorage) are holding a town hall meeting Thursday evening to discuss the legislative session, Alaska’s budget challenges, and listen and gather input from their constituents.
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As you may have heard, the legislature is currently in the midst of a Special Session called by Governor Bill Walker. Unfortunately, we are now on Day 7 and the Senate has shown little willingness to meet or work on the items called for by the Governor. While this overtime has been very disappointing, I continue to work with colleagues on all sides, encourage productive dialogue, and do my best to keep us moving forward.
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Link to an article in the Juneau Empire
Read More →Juneau – The leadership of the Alaska House Majority Coalition has decided to hold a limited number of technical floor sessions for the remainder of the week to allow House members to travel back to their home districts for the Memorial Day Holiday. This will allow members to engage with constituents about the important issues under consideration during the Special Session called by Alaska Governor Bill Walker. Allowing lawmakers to go home also saves the state money since lawmakers will not be collecting per diem in their home districts.
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