Note from Rep. Gara: Governor’s New Bill Raises Concerns - and a Few Words on Hieroglyphics
Last night the Governor released his latest oil tax rollback bill. It maintains the worst part of last year’s bill, and makes it even more draconian. The largest part of the bill massively rolls back state revenue, and oil company taxes, with no commitment that companies spend that “reward” in Alaska. We’ve tried that before. Until 2006 our Production Tax was nearly 0% on almost every field on the North Slope, and what did we get for lower taxes that didn’t require Alaska investment and more Alaska production work? We got oil production that was declining between 5 - 8% a year, and 40% less investment in the North Slope than we have today. And a fraction of the new companies are exploring for new oil on the North Slope today.
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Rep. Kawasaki’s Juneau Note: The 28th Alaska Legislature Convened Yesterday!
I made a commitment to you yesterday on the House floor to work hard as your Fairbanks Representative. Over the next 90 days, we will be working on issues ranging from the high cost of energy, to quality education, to enhancing the economy and writing a lean and efficient budget. It will be a challenging order to get all of the work of the state done, but I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves once again.
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Rep. Kerttula’s Newsletter: Celebrating the Beginning of Session
The beginning of session is a busy but exciting time. I’m looking forward to representing Juneau, Petersburg, Skagway, Gustavus, Tenakee Springs, Krupreanof, Excursion Inlet and Hobart Bay in the 28th Alaska State Legislature. Here are some pictures from yesterday, which was the first day of session.
I always enjoy hearing from you, so please stop by the office when you’re in downtown Juneau or call, write or email.
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NEWS: Democratic Leaders Offer Strong Vision for Alaska
Fair share, education and energy priorities for Democratic Legislators
in State of the State response
JUNEAU – Tonight, Senate Democratic Leader Johnny Ellis (D-Anchorage) and House Democratic Leader Beth Kerttula (D-Juneau) presented a strong vision for Alaska in their response to the governor’s state of the state speech. The two leaders said making a commitment to education, lowering the cost of energy, and standing up for Alaska’s fair return on its resources are the Democratic caucuses’ priorities.
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Democratic Leadership to Give State of the State Response Immediately after Governor’s Speech
JUNEAU – Senate Minority Leader Johnny Ellis (D-Anchorage) and House Minority Leader Beth Kerttula (D-Juneau) will give the Democratic caucuses’ response to the governor’s State of the State speech immediately following the conclusion of the governor’s speech on tonight.
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