NEWS: Interior Democrats Fight for Fairbanks in Small Gasline Proposal
March 27, 2012
Without fixes, bill would undercut development and lead to high gas prices for Alaskans
JUNEAU – Before voting on House Bill 9 (HB9) tonight, Interior House Democrats offered a number of amendments to protect Fairbanks’ and Alaskans’ interests as the state moves forward on a small gasline from the North Slope.
“As it is, this bill would repeat many of the mistakes Alaskans have made in the past,” said Rep. David Guttenberg (D-Fairbanks). “We have an oil line right through the Interior and we still pay some of the highest energy prices in the nation, and without significant changes, this bill would let us watch a gasline go by without any real benefit to Fairbanks.”
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NEWS: Democrats Move to Improve Small Gasline Proposal
March 27, 2012
Without fixes, bill could undercut development and lead to high gas prices for Alaskans
JUNEAU – Before voting on House Bill 9 (HB9) tonight, House Democrats offered a number of amendments to protect consumers, resource development incentives, and the state’s interests as the state moves forward on a small gasline from the North Slope.
“I am all for getting a gasline to get Alaska’s gas to market and to Alaskans. A small line should be our last option. With alternatives that bring cheaper energy to Alaskans moving forward, it’s premature to rush ahead with a bill that undercuts development and puts the state and consumers at risk.”
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Legislative Report Shows School Funding Has Lagged 5% Behind Inflation Since Governor Parnell Took Office
March 26, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2012
This week the House Finance committee will take up whether to increase school funding this year, including House Democratic calls that funding keep up with inflation. “The Governor has given salary and benefit increases to every one of his own agencies for increases in inflation. He should do the same for students,” said Rep. Les Gara (D-Anch.).
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Rep. Kawasaki Announces Second Constituent Meeting in Fairbanks
March 20, 2012
Juneau, AK – Representative Scott Kawasaki will hold a constituent meeting March 24, 2012 at the Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly Chambers from Noon to 2 pm. The event is open to the public.
This meeting comes amidst discussions around energy issues and contentious legislation on oil and gas taxes, both with significant potential impacts to the Interior. Attendees are welcome to bring questions or concerns about these and other issues. The Alaska Legislative session began January 17, 2012 and is scheduled to sine die on Sunday, April 15th.
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Democrats Offer Savings, Education, and Energy Budget Amendments
March 15, 2012
Amendments target proven ways to build today’s resources into tomorrow’s opportunity
JUNEAU – Today, House Democrats offered a series of amendments to the state operating budget targeted to saving money, reducing waste, improving schools, and lowering energy costs.
“Our goal all year has been to find ways to build today’s resources into tomorrow’s opportunities,” said House Democratic Leader Beth Kerttula (D-Juneau). “The Permanent Fund, our children’s education and Alaska’s home energy efficiency rebates are all proven ways to do that.”
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