Rep. Kawasaki’s Newsletter: Why are we Still Here? - Crime Bill Passes House, Congratulations UA Graduates
May 6, 2016
It’s Day 110 and many of us are still working in Juneau. Construction is underway at the Capitol so we moved in to a small rental near downtown. After 4 days of debate, the House voted on SB 91, the “Crimnibus” bill that overhauls the criminal justice system in a way Alaska has not seen since 1978. Below is an update about this legislation and why we’re still here.
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: The Budget, SB91 and a Zombie in the Legislature
May 6, 2016
Today marks the 109th day of the second session of the 29th Legislature and we are still here in Juneau. There are three major issues in front of the legislature that are keeping us from adjourning. One of those issues, the Criminal Omnibus legislation, was passed from the House. It awaits a vote on “reconsideration” next week. It will likely pass on reconsideration and be returned back to the Senate where they will vote on concurrence (in other words, they will decide whether they like the House’s changes to the original bill). I will cover this topic more in a subsequent section, so be sure to read below.
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Rep. Claman’s Newsletter: Extended Session Update
May 2, 2016
On Sunday, the legislature will be 14 days into the extended legislative session and we have not reached an agreement about revenue and expenses for a state budget. The House will be considering the Criminal Justice Reform bill early next week. As the session continues, I will continue my work for a responsible action plan for Alaska.
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OPINION: Alaska needs to make deep cut in oil tax credits, and soon
April 28, 2016
By Rep. Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins, Rep. Andy Josephson, and Rep. Ivy Spohnholz - Published Apr. 28, 2016 ADN
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Rep. Spohnholz’s Newsletter: Day 100 and Counting
April 28, 2016
It’s time for the total package!
Alaska has a $4.1 billion deficit due a budget that has been over reliant on one source of revenue—oil—which is at historically low prices right now. Oil is not projected to get above $50 per barrel anytime in the next 10 years, so we can’t just hope for prices to rebound. We only have enough funds on hand to cover about 25% of Alaska’s budget.
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