March 3, 2014

Dear Neighbors,

Legislature Approaching Midway Mark

Since 2008, the legislative session has been a quick 90 days. Previously, we had 120 days to introduce, debate and finalize legislation. With such a short time of deliberation, legislation moves fast. I’ve diligently asked the hard questions about the true impacts of legislation to regular, everyday families.

Today is the forty-second day of the 28th Legislature and we are already seeing long floor sessions and extended committee hearings. With only 48 days left, it’s important to make sure your voice is heard. I will keep you updated with opportunities to testify when critically important legislation is coming through.

Operating Budget Testimony

The FY 15 Operating Budget will be heard by the full House Finance Committee. I strongly encourage you to give your input on this moral document. Public testimony will be heard for only one hour on Wednesday, March 5 from 1:30-2:30pm. Fairbanksans can testify from the Fairbanks Legislative Information Office at 1292 Sadler Way on the 3rd floor of the Alaska USA Federal Credit Union building.

The budget speaks volumes to our priorities. As the behavioral health budget is harmed and public education funding is slashed, oil companies receive billions more while the public process is chipped away in the name of streamlining. As President Lincoln famously stated, “a government by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” It is unfortunate that our state government has begun to deny the people more opportunity to comment on important issues of the day. Please consider contacting your legislator and letting them know that smart decisions are better made with ample public involvement.

AKL.tv

One of the best ways to follow the legislature is through the online broadcasts of all committee hearings. AKL.tv streams both House and Senate committees online in real-time so that you can track legislation and follow the process. Coupled with BASIS, AKL.tv gives you everything you need to know to remain an informed Alaskan. Follow me in the House Resource Committee that meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:00-3:00pm to discuss all legislation relating to natural resources.

Democratic Press Availability – TOMORROW at 10:00am

Gavel Alaska, found at 360north.org, streams legislature-related content such as floor sessions and press availabilities in addition to the normal standing committees. The Democratic Press Availability airs tomorrow, Tuesday March 4, at 10:00am. I will be speaking and answering questions on various topics including my new bills, HB 352: Wrongful Imprisonment and HB 339: Eyewitness Identification.

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative
District 4 - Fairbanks