Note from Rep. Gara: How Education Cuts Are Tied To the Oil Giveaway; Foster Youth Volunteer Training
OK, this will be short. Really. I’ve spent the week writing a detailed document on how the oil giveaway passed last year requires nothing from oil companies in return for their billions in Alaska tax breaks. Giving away billions without requiring anything in return is a fool’s game. And it’s killing our schools.
Read More →
Rep. Kawasaki’s Juneau Note: Legislature Approaching Midway Mark
Since 2008, the legislative session has been a quick 90 days. Previously, we had 120 days to introduce, debate and finalize legislation. With such a short time of deliberation, legislation moves fast. I’ve diligently asked the hard questions about the true impacts of legislation to regular, everyday families.
Read More →
CORRECTED: Note from Rep. Gara: Politicians Should Give Back Your Vote, Avoid Annual Abortion Scuffle
Today I filed legislation no party in power would like. It will give you back your vote by eliminating the power the party in power has to gerrymander districts in their favor. This hasn’t been a monopoly of Republicans, though they gerrymandered Alaska’s lines most recently in 2012. Parties have used their majority status to “gerrymander” districts, to try to pre-determine election results, since Governor Elbridge Gerry did it in 1812.
Read More →
Note from Rep. Gara: Budget Testimony Tuesday; Pebble Mine Being Panned?
There’s still quite a bit of work to do on the budget, and your input is needed. If you live in Anchorage, testimony is Tuesday from 4:15 to 5:45. The temporary legislative information office (LIO) is located at 733 W 4th Ave, Suite 100 (right across the street from the former location). You must sign in to testify, and testimony is limited to two minutes per person. A list of testimony times and days for people around the state can be found below.
Read More →
Rep. Tarr’s Newsletter: End the Silent Epidemic of Child Abuse - H.B. 233: Erin’s Law
One of the most amazing parts of working in the Legislature is the ability to truly make a difference in the lives of Alaskans. There is an issue I have been working on that is very important to me and has influenced the lives of countless Alaskans, but remains hidden from public discussion: child sexual abuse.
Read More →