The Senate Finance Committee’s current budget includes $215 million in cuts. But Committee Co-Chairman Fairbanks Republican Sen. Pete Kelly said he’s aiming for a total of $500 million in reductions.
State Government
Aging Southeast: Pioneer homes can’t meet demand
Alaska’s pioneer homes have far fewer beds than needed to meet demand. The region and state’s rapidly-growing senior population means waitlists have grown longer and longer.
Walker orders effort to streamline public authorities
Walker signed an administrative order requiring the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, Alaska Energy Authority and Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority to find opportunities to become more efficient or consolidate.
PFD cuts could cause big ripples in Alaska economy
As lawmakers grapple with a mammoth budget deficit, it’s becoming increasingly likely that the solution will require tapping Permanent Fund earnings — and reducing the dividend.
Victims’ rights advocates push for changes to criminal justice bill
The bill has a lot of bipartisan support. It draws on recommendations from the 13-member Alaska Criminal Justice Commission.
State budget bill with $280 million in cuts due for House vote
The Senate may vote on its version of the budget on Saturday. Then the two houses will work to resolve the differences.
Gov. Walker picks Spohnholz to fill Gruenberg’s House seat
Spohnholz is the development director for Salvation Army Alaska, and is the vice chairwoman of the Alaska Children’s Trust, which aims to eliminate childhood abuse and neglect throughout the state.
Democrat gains staff, focuses on Power Cost Equalization after switch to Senate Majority
Sen. Donny Olson joined Republicans in the Senate Majority last month, and with that move came funds for one more staffer. Olson, a Democrat from Golovin, brought on a former employee who has a long history in the Alaska Legislature.
Overdose antidote bill is one of few minority-sponsored bills that passes
Anchorage Democratic Sen. Johnny Ellis sponsored the bill. This made it unusual, since few bills sponsored by members of the minority party ever come up for votes.
Update: JPD identifies woman in fatal courthouse shooting
A shooting outside the Dimond Courthouse late this morning has left one woman dead and rattled nerves in the heart of the Capital City.