March 7, 2014

Dear Neighbors,

Measure Twice, Cut Once

There has been a disturbing lack of rigorous vetting of bills during this legislative session. Since 2008, the legislature shortened the session from 120 to 90 days. When the change first took place I was a strong proponent. However, experience has taught me that 90 days is simply not enough time for the legislature to thoroughly understand bills or get adequate public input. Recently, we’ve seen a concerning trend where bills only receive one committee of referral, reducing the opportunity for public input and resulting in less scrutiny on the effects to Alaskan families.

I believe all Alaskans deserve more public testimony. It’s only fair to Alaskans that we pass the best and most efficient legislation possible with the public in mind.

Voice Your Opinion: How to Offer Public Testimony

The laws we write in a committee room will be felt far and wide and that is why an important part of governance is ensuring the public weighs in on critical legislative issues. With a short 90-day session, bills move quickly through committees. It concerns me that the public doesn’t have much notice of opportunities to testify. Here are some tips on how you can stay on top of the issues that matter to you and provide your testimony:

1. Track Bills: You can sign up to receive email updates when bills you are interested in have a status change.

2. Contact Committee Chairs: This is a great way to encourage the committee chairs to hear specific bills you are interested in. You can also submit written testimony to the committee chairs as well as sign up to provide verbal testimony via phone or in-person.

3. Call Me! My staff and I can always help you connect with the right people at the right time. Or, I can personally carry your personal testimony to committees.

Water Rights Bill Moving Again!

HB 77, the so-called ‘streamlined permitting bill’, will return to Senate Resources Committee for further public testimony next week and recommendations. This is a huge win for Alaskans as HB 77 seriously endangers the extremely important principle that our resources belong to us as Alaskans. HB 77 endows the Division of Mining, Land and Water with the “discretion” to notify the public or not on decisions relating to all mining other than oil and gas extraction. This allows the division to exclude the public when making decisions on permits for mining or construction. In my opinion, the bill last year did not allow for Alaskans to voice their concern over their own water rights, affecting fishing, boating, drinking water and our Alaskan way of life.

I strongly urge you to testify on Wednesday, March 12 at 3:30 pm from the Fairbanks LIO. Together, we can ensure Alaskans are heard.

Arctic Winter Games

Next week, the circumpolar north will congregate for competition, cultural exchange and camaraderie. Over 2,000 young athletes will compete in 20 different sports ranging from cross country and alpine skiing to gymnastics and Dene games. Arctic Winter Games are more than just a demonstration of tremendous athleticism. It’s a chance for young people to learn more about their own culture as well as socialize with thousands of their peers. I’m heartened by the young athletes who are able to put aside their differences so they can enjoy the spirit of the games. Come out and support the athletes of the 2014 Arctic Winter Games!

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative
District 4 - Fairbanks