The 3rd Special Session of the 32nd Legislature has come to an end and Governor Dunleavy has signed HB 3003 into law- confirming that each eligible Alaskan will receive an $1100 PFD this October. I am thankful that the Permanent Fund Dividend amount for this year is finally determined, but the larger fiscal framework needed for the state to move forward remains unsettled.
As you’ve likely seen, Governor Dunleavy announced his annual budget vetoes yesterday. He chose to cut the entirety of the PFD, and, as in past years, cut dozens of other programs upon which everyday Alaskans rely.
JUNEAU — The Alaska House of Representatives voted today to pass legislation that would provide a new retirement incentive to help attract law enforcement officers and firefighters to have careers in Alaska.
As the legislature moves beyond Day 90 of the legislative session, the state’s budget is slowly coming into focus, a disaster declaration extension appears headed towards passage, and vaccination opportunities abound.
JUNEAU – Today, at the direction of Attorney General-Designee Treg Taylor, the State of Alaska improperly and in violation of the Legislature’s appropriation authority filed an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in a case arising out of Washington State called Belgau v. Inslee.
ANCHORAGE – The Legislative Budget and Audit Committee (LB&A) voted this afternoon to make it so more Alaskans will have access federal pandemic relief money made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Today’s vote amends the eligibility requirements of the small business relief program originally approved on May 11 through the Revised Program Legislative proposal.
With the primary election behind us, I am happy to be able to share updates with you again (ethics rules limit legislative communications 30 day prior to an election and this is why you haven’t heard from me in a while).
With summer officially here, I hope that everyone is enjoying the longer days and the sunshine while staying safe. Things have quieted down for the moment on the legislative front. I am using the spare time I now find myself with to research various policy issues facing Alaska and help constituents navigate the difficulties of COVID-19 economic relief as best as I can.
