The brief argues that advances in technology have made it easier to have “extreme partisan” redistricting that insulate political parties from attempts to unseat them.
Southcentral
Syringe exchange struggles to keep up with demand
The state’s main syringe exchange can’t keep up with demand for clean needles among injection drug users. The Alaska AIDS Assistance Association, or Four A’s, collects used syringes in its Anchorage office and gives out new supplies, primarily to people using heroin and other opioids.
Building a future after prison through vocational education
In Alaska, two-thirds of people who leave prison end up going back within three years. But former inmates who can find decent jobs within a year of release are half as likely to re-offend, according to an Alaska Department of Labor report. So how does the Department of Corrections want to cut recidivism? By teaching the trades.
Hunters troll PETA in selfie campaign, but did it backfire?
When People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals rolled out a new social media campaign, it caught on with an unexpected group – hunters. All across the country, the slogan “shoot selfies, not animals” was co-opted by people putting up social media posts featuring trophy photos of game taken in the field. It’s a bit of social media mockery, but PETA is still counting it a success.
Walker says fourth special will be in October, focus on revenue
Walker did not say what revenue options he’ll put on agenda for the session.
Alaska soldiers to deploy for Afghanistan within week
Military officers in Anchorage said Wednesday that Alaska-based soldiers will start deploying to Afghanistan within the week. Over the course of the coming month, the Army is sending about 1,200 members of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division from Anchorage’s Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
Study says creating Alaska health care authority could save hundreds of millions of dollars
State Department of Administration Commissioner Sheldon Fisher said the study offers potential ways to lower Alaska’s health care expenses, which are among the highest in the country.
Alaska Democrats seek chance for independents to run in party primaries
The proposed change would allow the party to support a candidate without having the word “Democratic” appear on the ballot by the candidate’s name.
Secretary Chao announces infrastructure changes for Alaska
During a visit from the country’s head of transportation, Alaskans got news that one of the most trafficked roads in the state is a step closer to improvements that have been 40 years in the making.
PFD supporters plan to make case to voters
Sen. Wielechowski said he’s disappointed PFDs will no longer follow the formula that was used through 2015.