Rep. Kawasaki’s Newsletter: Public Budget Testimony Opportunity, New Bills, University Under Attack
February 25, 2016
As we near the halfway mark of the session, the legislature bears down on the budget. The next couple of weeks will be a critical stage in the budget process as the House Finance Committee hears public testimony next week before heading to the House floor.
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NEWS: Legislation Seeks Corporate Shareholder Approval for Spending to Influence Political Campaigns in Alaska
February 24, 2016
Juneau – Today, Representative Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage) formally introduced legislation requiring corporations in Alaska to get an affirmative vote from a majority of shareholders before spending corporate money on political campaigns or issues. Rep. Josephson confirms that House Bill 343 is in direct response to the 2010 Citizens United decision by the U.S. Supreme Court allowing corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money on elections to support or defeat candidates or issues.
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Rep. Guttenberg’s Newsletter: Important update for Goldstream Valley
February 16, 2016
Beginning February 23rd, permafrost researchers will collect airborne electromagnetic data in the Goldstream Valley using a specialized 25 foot long geophysical instrument towed beneath a small civilian helicopter. The helicopter will carry the instrument roughly 100 feet above the ground while collecting data. The Fairbanks Federal Aviation Administration is working closely with the research team to ensure public safety. Aerial surveys will be completed by March 14th.
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Rep. Claman’s Newsletter: House Focuses on Budget
February 12, 2016
The House voted this week to suspend non-budget related committee hearings. This move allows us to focus on budget topics. Budget subcommittee meetings have been extended and the House Finance Committee is meeting daily. Yesterday, the Finance Committee hosted a “Budget 101,” which is a helpful resource to understanding budget documents. I will keep you as informed as possible as we go through the next few weeks on opportunities for public testimony and other community events.
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Rep. Tarr’s Newsletter: Say No to Food Waste & Frankenfish in Alaska
February 11, 2016
February started out with a bang and a bit of sunshine. The budget situation has us all looking for ways to be more efficient with our resources. One issue getting a lot of attention is the issue of food waste. Last September, the US Secretary of Agriculture called for a 50% reduction in food waste by the year 2030 and in December the federal government passed new tax incentives aimed at making it easier for businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, and fisherman, to donate food.
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