Trying to Fix PPT is Like Putting Lipstick on a Pig

Governor Palin recently announced her plan to make changes to the failed “PPT” profits-based oil tax.  I think the Governor’s plan doesn’t go far enough in fixing our broken system.  You can dress an oinker up anyway you want to, but the PPT is still a pig. 

The PPT is projected to under perform by nearly one billion dollars this year and big changes are necessary to make sure Alaska is getting its fair share of oil revenues. 

When I evaluate the Governor’s proposal, I make my judgments based on the answers to three key questions:  Is the new tax simple?  Is it verifiable?  And, does it get a fair share for Alaskans?

We need to make sure our new oil tax system can’t be manipulated by oil company accountants.  More importantly, we need to switch to a different system so the state can save surplus revenues for the future as our oil production naturally declines.  In January, I introduced legislation (HB 89) that would accomplish this by taxing oil based on the value of each barrel. 

By taxing on the gross value of oil and providing targeted incentives for new exploration and development, we can make sure Alaskans are getting a fair share of oil revenues and stabilize our economy for years to come. 

I want to take your ideas and opinions with me to the special session, so please let me know how you think we can best change our system to benefit Alaska.

Clearing the Way For Eastside Youth Soccer Fields

This Saturday, please join me, Mayor Mark Begich and Anchorage School District Superintendent Carol Comeau for a volunteer work party to clear trees and brush from the soon-to-be Totem Youth Soccer Fields, at the far northeast corner of the Totem Theater Parking Lot. 

The Anchorage Parks Department will provide tools and lunch.  This all day event will start at 10 am.

Please help us keep the costs of these new fields down by volunteering some time with us on Saturday!

What:  Volunteer Work Party to Clear Trees    and Brush from Soccer Fields
When:  Saturday, September 8^th, 10:00 am until we’re done!
Where:  Far northeast corner of Totem Theater Parking Lot
Why:  To keep costs down in developing a new Eastside recreation field for our children!