The measure would create a state income tax that’s 15 percent of federal tax liability and set Permanent Fund dividends at roughly $1,100. Roughly 80 residents signed up to testify on the bill.
Andrew Kitchenman
State Government Reporter, Alaska Public Media & KTOO
State government plays an outsized role in the life of Alaskans. As the state continues to go through the painful process of deciding what its priorities are, I bring Alaskans to the scene of a government in transition.
Walker orders state agencies to pursue grants to fight opioid epidemic
Gov. Bill Walker signed a disaster declaration that’s intended to make it easier to give overdose victims the life-saving overdose antidote naloxone. More than 120 Alaskans have died from opioid overdoses over the past three years. Walker said declaring a disaster will enable a coordinated statewide response.
Reserves, dividends would be gone in 10 years without action, lawmakers told
Teal said that by 2027, whether Alaskans receive Permanent Fund dividends each year would depend on annual Fund earnings.
New fee would sharply hike state fees for studded tires
The rutted lanes on the Glenn Highway in Anchorage’s Eagle River section have helped prompt the new legislation.
Bill offers new option for PFDs: paying state income taxes
Employers could deduct state income tax payments from workers’ paychecks. But if workers prefer to pay with PFDs, they could ask their employers to deduct less money each pay period.
Bill would bring back income tax, draw Permanent Fund money for state budget
Seaton said the income tax provides balance by requiring higher-income residents to contribute, while the PFD cut affects lower-income residents more.