Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: HB 247 & the Budget
March 18, 2016
Last Friday the House passed the Operating Budget over to the Senate ending the “24 hour rule” that was put in effect by HCR23. That also means that the limitations on what bills could be heard in committee was lifted and, as a result, some of my committees heard non-revenue bills for the first time since February 8th.
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Rep. Wool’s Newsletter: Join Me for Pad Thai and Politics on Sunday!
March 16, 2016
It’s that time of year again! I will be back home in Fairbanks this weekend and I want to see you and hear your ideas about the budget, education, and other important issues facing the Legislature. On Sunday (March 20), I will be holding my second annual Pad Thai and Politics lunch from 1 to 3 PM at Lemongrass Thai Cuisine (388 Old Chena Pump Rd) in Chena Pump Plaza. We had a great time last year, and this year should be even better! I will be providing Thai food, and I hope you will bring your ideas and concerns (and of course your appetite!).
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NEWS: Alaskans with Disabilities and Seniors Asked to Weigh in on Harmful Budget Cuts
March 16, 2016
Juneau – Two Democrats in the Alaska House of Representatives are sending a positive message to those who live with disabilities that will lose significant help under the budget passed last week. Representatives Les Gara (D-Anchorage) and Ivy Spohnholz (D-Anchorage) are encouraging Alaskans with disabilities and others to share their stories with lawmakers and to not give up hope that the harmful cuts, to help they rely on, can be reversed.
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Rep. Tuck’s Newsletter: Update on Alaska’s Operating Budget
March 14, 2016
The Alaska House of Representatives met from 11:00 am last Thursday until just after 3:30 in the morning on Friday to debate amendments to the state operating budget. The House Finance Committee had greatly reduced the budget from the original version proposed by Governor Walker and his Administration.
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Rep. Kawasaki’s Newsletter: Cut Waste, Not Opportunities
March 14, 2016
Last week, during two 20-hour days in Finance Committee and on the House Floor, my colleagues and I in the Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition fought against cuts to services for seniors and the disabled, education opportunities from Pre-K to UA, and public safety. We also introduced millions of dollar in cuts for costly megaprojects, such as the Kodiak Rocket Complex and the Knik Arm Bridge. During this time of fiscal crisis, it made no sense to cut vital services yet keep these special pet projects moving.
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