Rep. Claman’s Newsletter: National Guard and Smart Justice Reform
January 29, 2016
The conversation around the budget continues to be the most important issue facing the Legislature. Look for constituent surveys in your mailbox in the next week: I appreciate your feedback, especially when dealing with such a critical issue. Meanwhile, the Judiciary Committee has been working hard on critical reform legislation dealing with the Alaska National Guard and criminal justice and corrections. I hope everyone in South Central went unharmed by the recent earthquake, and that you can join me this Saturday at Tastee Freez (4pm to 5pm) to chat and get updates about the legislative session or other issues in our community.
Read More →
NEWS: Community Engagement Meeting Scheduled in Juneau
January 29, 2016
Juneau – A community engagement meeting will be held in Juneau on Sunday for area residents to share concerns and issues with their elected Representatives and Senator in the Alaska Legislature. The meeting is open to the public. It will be held on Sunday, January 31 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library.
Read More →
NEWS: Concerns Raised About Monopoly of Individual Health Insurance in Alaska
January 28, 2016
Juneau – Today, the Alaska Division of Insurance cancelled Moda Health’s ability to sell health insurance in Alaska. That leaves Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield as the only company selling individual health insurance plans in Alaska. Representative Adam Wool (D- Fairbanks) responded to the news by highlighting the need to reform Alaska’s health insurance rate review process. Rep. Wool is the sponsor of House Bill 239 which would create a series of reforms to strengthen the Division of Insurance’s review process and make sure consumers are informed of proposed rate increases.
Read More →
Rep. Kito’s Newsletter: 2016 Session Gets Underway
January 26, 2016
The second session of the 29th Alaska Legislature is underway and the building is full of activity. This year, the focus is on the state’s widening budget deficit – with the deficit estimated at more than $3.5 billion, we have our work cut out for us.
Read More →
Note from Rep. Gara: Shadowy Political Operatives Targeting Legislators?
January 25, 2016
Alaska is facing a massive budget deficit. The best way to address it is by working calmly and collaboratively, across party lines, to come to a bi-partisan solution. As the start of the legislative session approached, some of us learned that some Outside national political operatives have been hired– it appears quite clear – to monitor and eventually campaign against legislators who don’t do what they want on a fiscal plan. Having folks like that involved in your legislative process is too shadowy for my likes.
Read More →