JUNEAU – The House Democratic Independent Coalition and the Senate Democrats will be holding a press availability at 1pm, TODAY, at the Anchorage LIO to discuss the disappointing lack of progress in the special session and to announce a plan of action for public hearings.
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JUNEAU – The Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition concurs with Governor Bill Walker in his call for lawmakers to continue working towards a fully funded budget before taking a break from the special session in Juneau. On Monday, without support from the 13 members of the Coalition, the House and Senate Majorities approved a FY 2016 budget that includes a five percent cut to public education and spending over $3 billion more than available revenue. This flawed budget could result in the elimination of vital state services as soon as August.
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Last night, we adjourned the regular session after 98 days. We left with an unfunded budget after weeks of negotiations. As a member of the Alaska Independent and Democratic Coalition my vote not to open the Constitutional Budget Reserve yesterday, was cast to protect Alaskans. The budget before us hurts children and it doesn’t have to. We can make smart cuts to stalled mega projects and outlandish oil tax credits while still keeping our promises to our children and state employees.
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We are in the final stretch and things will start to move at whirlwind speeds. The Legislature is dealing with some intense topics and these last six days will not be dull. Once we have transitioned back home, be on the lookout for more in-depth analysis of this session and constituent meeting opportunities.
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The end is near for the 2015 Legislative Session. Per usual, the gridlock starts as legislators scramble to negotiate for priority issues. This year I expect there to be significant stand offs between the House, Senate and governor over education funding, Medicaid expansion and the future of the gas line.
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