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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Rep. Tarr’s Newsletter: BUDGET SURVEYS
April 29, 2016
Thank you for taking the time to complete and submit the fiscal survey we mailed earlier this session. Of those who completed the survey, 89% are concerned about the budget shortfall. An overwhelming 71% of the survey respondents said we should make efficiency cuts to the budget and figure out new ways to generate revenues. We are listening and have advocated this position during the session. Our neighbors also said we should cut funding for mega-projects. We have repeatedly offered and voted in favor of budget amendments to cut funding for these unaffordable projects.
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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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Rep. Tuck’s Newsletter: Special Edition Fiscal Crisis Newsletter
April 22, 2016
As you are probably aware, the Legislature has extended beyond its standard 90 day limit as lawmakers work to come to agreement on fixing Alaska’s fiscal crisis.
It is regrettable that we are in this position, but I intend to work as long as is necessary to come up with a responsible plan that is fair to regular Alaskans.
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: Legislative Update: The Outstanding Issues
April 22, 2016
We are now 95 days into the second session of the 29th Legislature and there are still a number of issues that have yet to be resolved. These include the Omnibus Crime Bill (SB91), the Operating and Capital Budgets, a new plan for drawing from the Permanent Fund Earnings Reserve (SB128 & HB245), and a revision of our generous Oil and Gas Tax Credit System (HB247). At this time, most other legislation is essentially dead and the majority of the attention has been focused on these key issues. (Some bills, like the Campus Carry Bill could always resurface, however).
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