Note from Rep. Gara: How Education Cuts Are Tied To the Oil Giveaway; Foster Youth Volunteer Training
March 5, 2014
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 →
CORRECTED: Note from Rep. Gara: Politicians Should Give Back Your Vote, Avoid Annual Abortion Scuffle
March 3, 2014
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?
February 28, 2014
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
February 28, 2014
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 →
Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: Town Hall Time and More
February 27, 2014
This week, the State Senate scheduled a hearing for the U-Med/Northern Access Road bill that Senator Gardner and I introduced. I also attempted to restore funding to critical programs like Pre-K and job readiness, as well as welcomed a new colleague to the Legislature.
Read More →
