NEWS: Rep. Josephson Applauds Approval of Federal Ban on Plastic Microbeads That Endanger Fish and Wildlife
ANCHORAGE — On Monday, December 28, 2015, President Obama signed into law the “Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015.” The legislation phases out the use of small plastic microbeads that are often used in cosmetics and personal hygiene products. Manufacturing of products using microbeads will be phased out by July 1, 2017. The sale of products containing microbeads will be phased out by July 1, 2018.
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NEWS: It’s Time to Plan for the Impacts of Global Climate Change in Alaska
ANCHORAGE – Alaska is already experiencing damaging impacts from global climate change and the negative impacts are expected to intensify as the environment of the North Pacific continues to warm and change. Representative Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage) plans to introduce legislation later this month to create a nine member commission to help develop a statewide climate change strategy.
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Happy Holidays!
It is that time of year again. Egg Nog is on the store shelf, houses are putting up lights, and the ever so jolly mall Santa Clauses are back to hear every child’s wish. It is a time to remember those loved ones we lost, but also a time to spend with the loved ones still with us. This year, regardless of which holiday you are celebrating, please share your good cheer with your fellow man and woman.
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: NSAP & the U-Med
This morning Governor Walker released the details of his New Sustainable Alaska Plan (NSAP) to the public. This announcement came one day after the publication of the new Revenue Sources Book, which breaks down how much Alaska really made during the previous fiscal year. Alaska finds itself in a fiscal crisis highlighted by multi-billion dollar state deficits. I cannot say that I agree with all of the Governor’s policies at first glance. I believe that to say “yes” or “no” to all or some of the Governor’s proposals at this time would be premature since we haven’t had an opportunity to study the impacts.
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NEWS: Massive Scope of Proposed Fiscal Changes Demands Thorough Review of Impacts on Alaskans of All Income Levels
ANCHORAGE – Today, Alaska Governor Bill Walker unveiled an ambitious budget plan called “The New Sustainable Alaska Plan” that shifts much of the burden of paying for state government from the oil and gas industry onto the backs of hard-working, average Alaskans. The Governor’s proposal includes fundamental changes to how vital state services in Alaska are funded including new or increased taxes on income, fishing, mining, tourism, alcohol, tobacco, and motor fuel. The Governor’s proposal also makes drastic cuts to vital early education opportunities in Alaska and would result in significantly reduced Permanent Fund Dividends. The 13 members of the Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition thank Governor Walker for his leadership and the public process used to come up with the proposed budget plan but will insist that every proposed change be thoroughly vetted by the Alaska Legislature.
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OP-ED: Pivotal Moment in Alaska’s History
This moment in Alaska’s history is pivotal in determining what our future as a state will look like. The sudden drop in oil prices and the broken promises of increased oil production in return for excessive tax cuts and credits have resulted in a nearly $3.5 billion budget gap that must be closed. Alaska is required by law to produce a balanced budget. However, a budget is more than just numbers on a page. It should reflect the basic values of the people.
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