Crawford Joins Finance Committee

        A new legislative session began in Juneau January 16 th. I look forward to serving East Anchorage as a member of the House Finance Committee. As a Finance committee member, I will be working with my colleagues to pass a sustainable budget that funds our schools, roads and necessary programs.

        The Governor proposed a budget that is $750 million dollars higher than last year’s budget and we are tasked with trimming it down. Meetings on the budget are underway, and we are looking to identify areas for savings and efficiencies. I look forward to listening to your ideas on how we can improve education and safety in our area, while keeping spending at a responsible level.

Preventing Drunken Driving

        I have reintroduced my legislation that will help prevent drunken driving accidents by stopping problem drinkers from buying alcohol. Many convicted drunk drivers commit the crime again and again. Repeat offenders are often ordered not to drink as part of a sentence or as a condition of probation or parole.        

House Bill 14 will mark the IDs of DUI offenders court ordered not to drink so bars and liquor stores will know they are prohibited from buying alcohol. By keeping these problem drinkers from buying alcohol, Alaskan families will be safer from drunk drivers.

Protecting Your PFD

        With oil prices dipping below $50 a barrel, the state’s finances are once again in jeopardy. Your Permanent Fund Dividend is vulnerable to the spending whims of lawmakers. That is why I am again pushing to constitutionally protect the PFD. House Joint Resolution 3 will ensure your PFD stays in your pocket and out of the government’s hands.

        Don’t forget to file your PFD application. Click here to visit the Permanent Fund Division website and submit your application today.

Lowering Energy Costs

        Energy costs will continue to rise as gas reserves in Cook Inlet decline. I have introduced legislation that will lower your utility bill by developing wind energy in Anchorage. House Bill 73 will help build a wind turbine farm on Fire Island, providing our community with an affordable, clean energy resource.

Keeping in Touch

        I am listening to your concerns so I can better represent you and East Anchorage in the Legislature. Please call or email me anytime about the issues most important to you and your family.

        There is a lot we can do together to make a better Alaska. I look forward to listening to your input.