Juneau legislators announced the capital city has space set aside for use as legislative chambers and committee rooms throughout the special session. As work begins on the seismic upgrades to the Capitol itself, the city has space dedicated for chambers and committee rooms for the legislature through at least the end of May.
Today, the Alaska state Senate voted unanimously to set aside November 14 of each year to honor the life and work of Dr. Walter A Soboleff, a revered Tlingit elder who passed away in 2011 at the age of 102. Late last month, the Alaska state House passed the measure which now goes to the governor for his signature.
On Tuesday, Representative Carl Gatto of Palmer passed away following a long and brave battle with cancer. On Wednesday, we held a small ceremony on the House Floor, singing Amazing Grace and placing thirty-nine roses on the desk he leaves vacant.
The Legislature must still continue the people’s work. And we have a lot of work left to do before the end of regular session on Sunday night (we’re not sure whether there will be a special session or not). In this newsletter, I’ll talk about the issues that are still on the table for the end of session. I’ll also spotlight a great bill to provide insurance coverage for Autism spectrum disorders.
Thank you for reading my newsletter. I appreciate hearing from you, so please stop by the office, call, write or email.
I was disappointed when the governor listed education sixth in his State of the State address.
Alaska must make education a top priority. This really came home to Juneau last week with the announcement that 66 positions would be cut from our Juneau School District. The House Democratic Caucus is working hard to stop cuts like this.
Education and vocational training are the keys to opportunity, and I’m excited about the legislative package the House Democratic Caucus has this year. We are working to improve Alaskans’ education opportunities from their preschool years until they join the workforce and beyond.
Dear friends and neighbors,
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent Juneau; it is truly an honor and a pleasure serving you and our beautiful community.
2011 was my thirteenth session with the Alaska State House of Representatives and fifth year as House Minority Leader and I look forward to continuing service in 2012. My seniority and leadership position in the Legislature have allowed me to strengthen and protect Juneau’s interests as I work to help improve our community and our state.
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter. I hope you will find it informative and interesting. If you would like to get regular news updates from me, you can also subscribe to my e-newsletter (email me at Rep.Beth.Kerttula@legis.state.ak.us to sign up).
I’m attaching a list of frequently called numbers for you to use as a reference. Next week’s newsletter will have more useful information for you.
Thanks to everyone who attended the Juneau Legislative Delegation’s constituent meeting last night. It’s wonderful to see so many familiar faces and to meet new people. We all had a great time.
