NEWS: Administration Confirms: Much Larger BSA Increase Needed to Fill Education Shortfalls
March 20, 2014
JUNEAU – A new analysis of Parnell administration data confirms Alaska’s school districts need between three and six times the amount of the governor is proposing to increase per-student classroom funding in order to fill budget gaps for next school year. Representative Les Gara (D-Anchorage) released the analysis today as the House Finance Committee considers the governor’s omnibus education bill and other education measures.
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Rep. Kreiss-Tomkins’ Newsletter: The Curious Case of Senate Joint Resolution 9
March 18, 2014
In politics, education is an issue all its own. It’s not Democrats vs. Republicans, dogs vs. cats, Sharks vs. Jets, pro-life vs. pro-choice, pro-”More Alaska Production Act” vs. anti-”Oil Tax Giveaway.”
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: Gasline Talks: Part 1
March 17, 2014
As expected, the Governor’s new gas line proposal has dominated much of the discussion this session. Although the deal is far from complete, and may not ultimately be the best path forward, developing our natural gas reserves is critical to the future of our state. (Put simply, we’re running out of oil and it’s not coming back in familiar volumes—we need a replacement source of revenue!). Throughout this process, it is essential that Alaskans have access to accurate information so a beneficial and transparent deal can be negotiated on the behalf of all Alaskans.
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NEWS: House Democrats Comment on Withdrawal of Governor’s Controversial Appointee
March 13, 2014
JUNEAU – Today, Representative Scott Kawasaki (D-Fairbanks), Representative Les Gara (D-Anchorage) and Representative Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage) released the following statements upon hearing Dennis Mandell had withdrawn his name from consideration for the Alaska Assessment Review Board after concerns were raised about his residency, his history of working for the oil industry in disputes against Alaska, and his failure to pay taxes.
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NEWS: State Helping Find New Partner for Pebble Project?
March 13, 2014
JUNEAU – Today, Representative Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage) and Representative Les Gara (D-Anchorage) revealed statements from Northern Dynasty CEO, Ron Thiessen contradicting Governor Parnell’s stated position on that he would reserve judgment until completion of the permitting process for the Pebble Mine.
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