Don Young

Budget

What are your priorities for the state budget?

I have always maintained that the state is best served by developing its natural resources. Resource development will guarantee good jobs into the future, which will increase and maintain the state budget. Through resource development the state can sufficiently fund education, health care, and infrastructure needs. However, the decision on how to prioritize the state budget needs to be decided by state voters and the state legislature.

PFD

Do you agree with using a portion of Alaskans' PFDs to fund state government? If not, what government services would you propose cutting or taxes would you propose raising to pay for it?

Our approach to the state’s fiscal situation should focus on prioritizing increased natural resource development, building a manufacturing base, and spurring more robust economic activity. This is the best course for generating new wealth that supports a healthy state budget. Alaskans are deeply invested in the future of the permanent fund. Considerations as to any potential changes to the fund fall within the jurisdiction of the state, and not within my purview as your representative in Congress. That said, I believe that state leaders have a responsibility to listen to the voice of the people of Alaska when it comes to permanent fund decision-making.

Funding health care

Do you support the state paying health care providers less? If not, how would you limit state spending on health care?

The state can consider that, but at the same time they would need to take into account that paying providers less could result in less availability of services, particularly in more rural areas. There could be a balance there, but at a point people would not have the incentive to provide services if they are not being fairly compensated. I have always argued that programs aimed at early prevention, identification, and treatment would save money in the long term even when it appears to cost more up front. More people seeing primary care doctors could help with this and avoid larger complications and emergencies down the road.

Criminal justice

Where do you stand on the criminal justice reforms enacted by SB 91 and what changes (if any) would you like to see?

I understand and appreciate the need to reform various criminal justice policies from sentencing to efforts to reduce recidivism. However, in the year since Senate Bill 91 was signed into law, crime has continued to rise, and the citizens of Alaska have understandably grown more fearful. While any efforts to reform SB 91 fall under the purview of the state, state legislators should listen to the voice of Alaskans to be tough on crime.

Ferries

Would you commit to continue funding the fast ferries as other vessels join the fleet?

State leaders should listen to the people of Alaska when it comes to funding fast ferries. However, as your Congressman I will continue to work on the federal level to ensure Alaska receives transportation and infrastructure funding for the Alaska Marine Highway System. I support the funding of fast ferries as well as other vessels. The ferry system has served Alaskans well and I am pleased with the recent completion of the MV Tazlina and the soon-to-be-completed MV Hubbard. These ships will allow for more passengers and vehicles to be transported within the AMHS each day.

Video profile

Don Young declined to film with Alaska Insight from Alaska Public Media, the source of these video profiles