House Democrats Optimistic About Big Gasline Announcement

“It’s very encouraging to see new focus on the line that gets the most for Alaska”

JUNEAU – Today, House Democratic Leader Beth Kerttula released the following statement in response to the announcement about a large-scale gas pipeline from the North Slope:

“It is very encouraging to see new focus on a big gas pipeline from the North Slope and the potential for an All-Alaska line. A big export line gets the most for Alaska – new incentives to develop on the North Slope, the cheapest gas for Alaskans, and the best opportunity to create opportunities for generations of Alaskans. We look forward to working with industry, the governor and other members of the Legislature to make this long-time Alaska dream a reality.”

NEWS: Democrats Move to Improve Small Gasline Proposal

Without fixes, bill could undercut development and lead to high gas prices for Alaskans

JUNEAU – Before voting on House Bill 9 (HB9) tonight, House Democrats offered a number of amendments to protect consumers, resource development incentives, and the state’s interests as the state moves forward on a small gasline from the North Slope.

“I am all for getting a gasline to get Alaska’s gas to market and to Alaskans. A small line should be our last option. With alternatives that bring cheaper energy to Alaskans moving forward, it’s premature to rush ahead with a bill that undercuts development and puts the state and consumers at risk.”

Rep. Kerttula’s Juneau Newsletter: Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month, and on March 16, there was a fantastic lunch in honor of women legislators throughout Alaska’s history. Not only were current women legislators present, but also past women legislators and their families, along with the family members of women legislators who have passed on. It was a memorable and inspiring event. I remembered that when a bill was heard last week that would have severely limited a woman’s right to choice. I felt much more empowered thinking of the strong women who came before me as well as those with whom I serve.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. I appreciate hearing from you, so please stop by the office, call, write or email.

Beth Kerttula’s Newsletter: Operating Budget Passes House; Coastal Management Update

In this newsletter, I’ll share updates on the state’s operating budget and the Alaska Coastal Management Program. I’m encouraged by some of the good progress that has been made and look forward to even more progress.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. I enjoy hearing from you, so please stop by the office, call, write or email me.

Rep. Kerttula’s Juneau Newsletter: Operating Budget Heats Up

Plus: Coastal Management Hearing on Monday

I want to extend a special thank you to everyone who came and testified in the House Finance Committee this week. It is not easy to speak before the Legislature and everyone did a wonderful job. Hear what they had to say below.

I’m pleased to announce that legislation to reinstate the Alaska Coastal Management Program will be heard in House Resources on Monday (more below).

Rep. Kerttula’s Juneau Newsletter: Native Language Council Plus: Budget Testimony Opportunity

Yesterday marked the half-way point for session. Things are starting to heat up and more attention is being focused on the big issues – education, budget and oil and gas taxes. This week you’ll have the opportunity to testify on the operating budget (more information below).

I also want to share with you an important piece of legislation designed to revitalize and support Native languages in Alaska. This week’s hearing on the bill provided some of the most inspiring and touching testimony I’ve heard in the Legislature.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. I appreciate hearing from you, so please stop by my office, call, write or email.

Rep. Kerttula’s Juneau Newsletter: Catch the Wave – Responsible Stewardship of the Oceans

Living in Juneau, I am reminded every day how important the health of the ocean is to our community and our state. The ocean contributes to Juneau’s spectacular beauty and amazing recreational opportunities and supports commercial fishing and tourism, which are both important parts of our economy.

I’m proud to be able to dedicate this newsletter to recent advancements in our responsible stewardship of the oceans.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. I enjoy hearing from you, so please stop by the office, call, write or email.

House Joint Resolution 10 “Ocean Acidification Research”

“Supporting expanded research concerning the detrimental effects of ocean acidification.”

House Joint Resolution 10 recognizes the threat ocean acidification poses to Alaska’s marine ecosystems, tourism industry and fisheries. The resolution supports research of ocean acidification to understand the effect ocean acidification would have on Alaska’s economy.

Democrats Call on Governor to Make Stronger Commitment to Education

Keeping up with inflation allows schools to focus on where to improve, not where to cut

JUNEAU – Today, House Democrats called on the governor to join them in an effort to prevent Alaska’s school districts from having to make more cuts in the classroom due to inflation. The legislators sent a letter to the governor earlier today requesting that he be open to meeting school district needs by increasing the per-student allocation enough to cover the costs of inflation.

Rep. Kerttula’s Juneau Newsletter: Coastal Management Hearing Scheduled

I’m excited to announce a hearing on the coastal management initiative. Read below for more information.

I’m also including links to a couple of guides for you – one for citizen participation in government and another of frequently called numbers.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. I enjoy hearing from you, so please stop by the office, call, write or email.