30 Days of Session 📆

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Monday, February 21st, 2022

Friends & Neighbors in District 14 --

House Bill 268 passed the Floor with unanimous support.

The 30^th Day of this year’s session was Wednesday, February 16^th. So far, I’ve had 27 budget subcommittee meetings on budgets for the Departments of Public Safety, Military and Veterans’ Affairs, Natural Resources, and the University of Alaska. Subcommittees are expected to wrap up their work this week. We’re expecting public testimony on the budget the first weekend in March.

I’ve also had more opportunities in the last month to meet with many of you as part of community and statewide organizations. The capitol being open has allowed constituents back in my office, and continued virtual meetings have given me the chance to chat with so many more of you while I’m in Juneau. It’s a win-win!

I have a handful of pieces of legislation this session I’m working on, in addition to the budget. My #1 priority bill is HB 304, a land swap bill that allows the Lions Club to own Lions Park. If that’s important to you, written testimony is always welcome and very helpful, or you can call in to support the bill when it’s heard by the committee. Right after subcommittees finish up, we’ll hit the ground running with this bill!

HB 268 is about military driver’s licenses, based on an issue raised in the Eagle River community. It’s already passed the House unanimously and is awaiting a hearing in the Senate State Affairs committee.

Senator Revak is carrying the companion to my HB 174, which deals with language in initiatives. I’m also working on HJR 27 with Senator Revak, encouraging firearm suppressor usage.

I’m receiving more information and direction from the federal government every day on the infrastructure (IIJA) funds coming to the state. These funds come with strings attached, and I’m concerned about the amount of matching funds we’ll need to see those dollars. I’m focused on ensuring the funding we receive goes to legacy projects that will last far into the future.

If I can be of service, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Kind Regards,

Representative Kelly Merrick
House District 14 - Eagle River

Mark your calendars! PFD applications are due March 31st.

Thank you to those who joined in for our pre-session town hall.

From Juneau

It was so exciting to have Miss America Emma Broyles of Anchorage visit the capitol.

Legislative Finance has developed an email notification system if you'd like to be updated on the reports they publish.

Follow the Legislature on Gavel to Gavel

From Eagle River

Rep. Merrick had a great time honoring our men and women in uniform at the Salute to the Military this weekend.

Community Council Schedule:

Eagle River
Thursday, March 10th, 6:30pm
12001 Business Blvd., #123

Eagle River Valley
Wednesday, March 9th, 6:30pm
Currently meeting on Zoom

South Fork
Thursday, March 3rd, 7pm
Currently meeting on Zoom

You can track legislation online, or through text message by texting a bill number (i.e. HB1) to
559-245-2529.

907-465-3777
Alaska State Capitol, Room 511

Juneau, Alaska 99801

907-269-3630
ANC LIO, 1500 W. Benson Blvd., Rm 216
Anchorage, Alaska 99503

Contact Governor Dunleavy

Contact Congressman Young

Contact Senator Murkowski

Contact Senator Sullivan

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