Crawford's Bill to Aid Alaskan Workers
in House Labor and Commerce

House Bill 7, sponsored by Representative Harry Crawford (D-Anchorage), would increase the maximum weekly benefit available through unemployment insurance from $248 to $336. Future unemployment benefit amounts would be indexed to Alaska's average weekly wage; adjustments would be automatic and synchronized with the state's economy.

Alaska's economy includes many seasonal industries and current benefits fall short in helping families cover living expenses during periods of unemployment. Alaska's maximum weekly unemployment insurance benefit of $248, which is only be available to individuals with an annual income exceeding $38,000, is the fourth lowest in the nation. Increasing the maximum weekly benefit is not only long overdue, it is essential in alleviating skill shortages by ensuring Alaskan workers and their families survive periods of unemployment.

For more information, please contact Representative Crawford's office at 1-888-478-3438.

House Bill 7 is scheduled for a hearing in House Labor and Commerce on Friday, March 4th at 3:15 pm.

French's Bill to Ban Anabolic Steroids
Incorporated into Drug Bill

Senate Bill 49, sponsored [statement] by Senator Hollis French (D-Anchorage), would make possession and use of anabolic steroids illegal in Alaska. Anabolic steroids are currently banned by state law in 48 states - Alaska and Vermont are the only exceptions.

Citing the danger that anabolic steroids pose to the health of both young and adult users, a Senate committee on Friday adopted his legislation by incorporating the language into another bill.

The provisions of French's bill, which will close a loophole in Alaska criminal law, were incorporated into Senate Bill 70. The Senate Health and Social Services Committee amended the bill, which originally focused solely on methamphetamines.

Anabolic steroids, widely used by bodybuilders and other athletes who believe they give them a competitive edge and improve performance, can have a variety of negative side effects, including high blood cholesterol levels, sexual and reproductive disorders, and severe acne. Possible psychological disturbances include mood swings, depression, extreme irritability, hostility, and aggression.

For more information, please contact Senator French's office at 866-465-3892.

Upcoming Events-

Saturday, February 26th-12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. Senator Bettye Davis, Representative Harry Crawford, and Representative Sharon Cissna are hosting the first 2005 East Anchorage Constituent Meeting at King Career Center, meeting room 1 located at 2650 E. Northern Lights Blvd. Food and refreshments provided! Bring your family and friends and talk to us about Alaska's future.

Putting Alaskans First - Moving Alaska Forward