Alaska joined a lawsuit that could further limit rural residents’ access to abortion services, even though they’re legal here.
Claire Stremple
Alaska News Reporter
I believe every Alaskan has a right to timely information about their health and health systems, and their natural environment and its management. My goal is to report thoughtful stories that inform, inspire and quench the curiosity of listeners across the state.
Gov. Dunleavy adds $9M to budget to address food stamp, Medicaid backlog
The money will be spent on hiring contract workers to help state employees get through the backlog so they are prepared for upcoming Medicaid recertifications.
Alaska joins lawsuit that would take the abortion pill off the market
Alaska joined a coalition of states and anti-abortion groups in a lawsuit that aims to revoke the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of the abortion pill.
At Juneau rally, state workers call for more resources to fix food stamp backlog
The state has blamed the backlog on aging technology and a cyber attack in May of 2021, but employees say chronic understaffing is the cause. The union has also filed a grievance over the division hiring contract workers to help.
Thousands of Alaskans are still waiting for food stamps as state scrambles for solutions
Even Alaskans who have now gotten their benefits say that the months they went without left them with debt and fears for the future.
SEARHC acquires Juneau Youth Services and Juneau Obstetrics and Gynecology
The addition of Juneau Obstetrics and Gynecology will expand SEARHC’s women’s health care significantly in Juneau. Previously its only board-certified OB/GYN was in Sitka.
Grant offers some Alaskans unconventional but stable housing for a year
Usually federal housing money can’t be used to rent non-traditional housing like boats, hotel rooms or rooms in a home. This program side-steps these requirements.
Juneau’s hospital is losing more than $1M a month
There haven’t been any layoffs yet, but they haven’t been ruled out either.
State Public Assistance director is no longer in her post following news of months-long waits for food stamps
Juneau resident Deb Etheridge will replace O’Brien. She was previously Assistant Director of Southeast Alaska Independent Living.
State workers say chronic understaffing caused food stamp backlog
“It’s a revolving door,” one worker said. “We’re dropping like flies. They’re not investing in retaining employees.”