NEWS: LEGISLATURE APPROVES “CHILD-ONLY” INSURANCE COVERAGE

Guttenberg bill piggybacked on another measure

JUNEAU, Alaska – In an unusual maneuver, the Alaska State Legislature early this morning enacted the essence of Representative David Guttenberg’s (D- Fairbanks) House Bill 326 to substantially increase access to “child-only” health insurance. Existing law prevents parents with pre-existing conditions from acquiring health insurance solely for their children. HB 326 would have remedied that by allowing parents to purchase insurance for their dependent children.

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Democrats on Education Proposal: Fair Compromise, Schools Still Deserve Better

Lots of good for schools, but not enough to prevent cuts this year or in the future

JUNEAU – Today, House Democrats claimed a partial victory in the debate over school funding as the House passed a bill that provides far more resources to Alaska’s schools than what the governor proposed. The governor flat funded education and later proposed what was effectively a $10 million one-time increase, far short of keeping up with inflation.

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NEWS: House Democrats Mourn the Loss of Representative Carl Gatto

JUNEAU – Today, House Democratic Leader Beth Kerttula released the following statement on behalf of the House Democratic Caucus in response to the passing of Representative Carl Gatto:

“We are truly saddened by the loss of Representative Carl Gatto. Carl’s friendship went beyond politics. He was an intelligent man who loved doing the people’s work in the Legislature. He never let passions over an issue interfere with his genuine respect for and kindness to his colleagues, constituents and anyone he came in contact with. We will miss his smile, kindness and humor, and our thoughts and prayers are with Cathy, his family and all who are mourning his loss today.”

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