The state is working on distributing roughly $56 million in relief funds to those affected by the 2016 Gulf of Alaska pink salmon season disaster.
Economy
Norovirus on a cruise ship? Juneau would like a call.
There’s been another norovirus outbreak on a cruise ship docking in Juneau. Health and tourist officials say next time they’d appreciate a courtesy call before an infected ship arrives.
Oil tanker dented after ‘hard landing’ with new tugboat in Valdez
The Coast Guard is characterizing the incident as “minor;” no oil was spilled and no injuries were reported.
Ferry Columbia evacuated after docking in Bellingham
The Alaska state ferry Columbia was evacuated Friday morning, June 29 after crew noticed smoke onboard after the ship had docked in Bellingham, Washington. Black smoke was discovered but no flames in the bow thruster room.
Housing expert says many Sitkans struggle to make rent
In Sitka, like many towns in Southeast Alaska, geographic isolation creates unique problems of affordable housing and homelessness. This week Sitka held a pair of town hall meetings with a visiting expert to canvas ideas for solutions.
Alaska unions defiant in wake of punishing Supreme Court decision
The Janus v. AFSCME decision by the U.S. Supreme Court denies public sector unions from forcing workers to pay dues. The 5-4 ruling could affect about 10 percent of Alaska’s workforce.
Pointing at Pebble, EPA leader looks to rein in agency’s veto power
The proposal would eliminate EPA’s ability to preemptively or retroactively veto permits for waste discharge in waterways, restricting the agency’s ability to step in and regulate large projects. Under the Obama administration, EPA used its authority under Section 404(c) of the Clean Water Act to propose restrictions on the Pebble Mine.
First Y-K Delta tribe marches against Donlin Gold in Bethel
The mine would be built in a region where many residents practice subsistence and would be one of the biggest gold mines in the world.
U.S. Supreme Court deals blow to government unions
The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that states may not force public employees to pay agency fees to unions of which they are not a member.
Fearing another Chinook cut, Sitka’s troll fleet calls on President Trump
Over 200 fishermen and supporters gathered at Eliason Harbor on Sunday with signs and voice raised, appealing to President Donald Trump to get involved with Pacific Salmon Treaty negotiations.