Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: NSAP & the U-Med
December 10, 2015
This morning Governor Walker released the details of his New Sustainable Alaska Plan (NSAP) to the public. This announcement came one day after the publication of the new Revenue Sources Book, which breaks down how much Alaska really made during the previous fiscal year. Alaska finds itself in a fiscal crisis highlighted by multi-billion dollar state deficits. I cannot say that I agree with all of the Governor’s policies at first glance. I believe that to say “yes” or “no” to all or some of the Governor’s proposals at this time would be premature since we haven’t had an opportunity to study the impacts.
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NEWS: Massive Scope of Proposed Fiscal Changes Demands Thorough Review of Impacts on Alaskans of All Income Levels
December 9, 2015
ANCHORAGE – Today, Alaska Governor Bill Walker unveiled an ambitious budget plan called “The New Sustainable Alaska Plan” that shifts much of the burden of paying for state government from the oil and gas industry onto the backs of hard-working, average Alaskans. The Governor’s proposal includes fundamental changes to how vital state services in Alaska are funded including new or increased taxes on income, fishing, mining, tourism, alcohol, tobacco, and motor fuel. The Governor’s proposal also makes drastic cuts to vital early education opportunities in Alaska and would result in significantly reduced Permanent Fund Dividends. The 13 members of the Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition thank Governor Walker for his leadership and the public process used to come up with the proposed budget plan but will insist that every proposed change be thoroughly vetted by the Alaska Legislature.
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Rep. Kawasaki’s Newsletter: Town Hall Meeting Tomorrow and Governor’s Fiscal Plan
December 8, 2015
Governor Bill Walker will roll out his fiscal plan and an overview of the FY17 budget on Wednesday morning. This is historically early, but the times require that legislators and the Governor work closely and quickly to resolve these unprecedented challenges. A failure to do something this year could further harm our fragile economy and cause a much longer-lasting recession. Government must learn to live within its means and get to a steady state.
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NEWS: Rep. Kawasaki to Host Town Hall Meeting to Discuss Alaska’s Troubling Fiscal Situation and Other Issues
December 7, 2015
FAIRBANKS – The 29th Alaska Legislature begins in January with a number of very important issues under consideration including how to address a significant budget shortfall while protecting vital state services and the health of the Alaska economy. To better inform his decision making process, Representative Scott Kawasaki (D-Fairbanks) is seeking input and feedback from Fairbanks area residents.
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Rep. Tarr’s Newsletter: Happy Thanksgiving!
November 25, 2015
This is one of my favorite holidays of the year, not just because it’s a time to celebrate with friends and family, but because there’s such an amazing outpouring of support from communities all over the state to help those in need!
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