Rep. Tuck’s Community Connection: Day 17 of the Legislative Session, 73 Days Remaining
February 2, 2012
When I entered public office I took the following oath: “I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Alaska, and that I will faithfully discharge my duties as Representative to the best of my ability.”
I am grateful to have these constitutional principles to guide me as I represent you in the Alaska Legislature. Among my duties are to ensure that government is instituted solely for the good of the Alaskan people, we maintain a system of public schools open to all children of the state, our right to keep and bear arms is not infringed upon, and our right to privacy is protected.
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Note from Rep. Gara: Attempting a 99 Yard Touchdown Pass- Time to Push a Constitutional Amendment To $top Unlimited Campaign Contribution$ By Corporation$ & Billionaire$
February 1, 2012
This election season has been dominated by millions of dollars from unregulated “Super-PACS” – funded by billionaires and corporations because, well, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled they can now make unlimited contributions.
Well, this might be crazy, but I think ideas – and not massive wealth by those corporations and billionaires who want to drown out your voice – should decide elections. Unfortunately, given a series of U.S. Supreme Court decisions, today the wealthiest people in the nation, corporations, and unions can now make unlimited contributions to support or defeat candidates.
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Rep. Kawasaki’s Juneau Note: Energy, Education and Going RED
January 31, 2012
The House Resources Committee heard a resolution urging the US Congress to take over Central Park. Many of you may have heard and seen the media attention surrounding HJR 31, a resolution. While I may have found the attempt humorous, most importantly, it’s a huge waste of time and state money.
I spoke up against this kind of satire legislation in the House Resources committee meeting, as the committee awaits 35 bills, some dealing with much-needed relief from the cost of energy that will help Fairbanks families. The message I want to send to the rest of the US is that we are good stewards of our resources, accountable to our constituents, and ready to lead the nation as an energy state.
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Newsletter from Rep. Holmes: And The Award Goes To… Alaska’s Economy!
January 31, 2012
I returned to Anchorage this past weekend, and boy was it cold! But not as cold as it was in Barrow, the site of the recent Alaskan-filmed movie, Big Miracle – the movie we used to know as Everybody Loves Whales. I was excited to attend the Anchorage premiere of the movie while I was home. Almost every scene featured a local landmark or an Alaskan friend who had been cast in the film. When the credits rolled, the audience erupted in cheers, and we all stayed glued to our seats watching the impressive number of Alaskans and Alaska businesses that took part in the movie. I’m proud of our people and our state, and I’m thrilled that worldwide audiences will get the chance to see both in this film.
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Berta’s Briefings from Rep. Gardner: Introduction of “PROPERTY TAX FAIRNESS ACT”
January 30, 2012
You have probably heard the commotion relating to property tax exemptions for some religious properties in Anchorage.
Property tax exemptions for religious facilities and for pastor housing have been a longstanding practice in states and municipalities throughout the nation, including in Alaska. In 2006, the definition of religious property was significantly broadened to include some residences of teachers serving at religious institutions.
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