The Republican legislators’ concerns have been growing for years. Some members believe that there should be much deeper cuts in state spending and that dividends should be much larger.
"Permanent Fund Dividends"
Alaska Gov. Dunleavy introduces new budget bill as legislators talk about how to avoid government shutdown
Leaders from both House caucuses said that their talks are focusing on the vote on the effective date for the budget bill the Legislature has already passed.
Credit rating agencies see improved outlook for Alaska, but note risks from budget uncertainty
As Alaska lawmakers decide what to do about the budget, one group that’s keeping an eye on the outcome are the agencies that rate the state’s ability to pay off its debts.
This year’s Alaska Permanent Fund Dividends would be $1,100 under budget compromise
A committee composed of both senators and House members agreed to a budget that would set the dividend at less than half the roughly $2,350 amount that Gov. Mike Dunleavy proposed and the Senate passed during the regular session.
Alaska House passes budget, leaving potential gap from federal relief rules
It appears that Alaska will receive roughly $200 million less in COVID relief this year than House members planned.
Alaska lawmakers reject $3,000 dividend during weekend debate over the state’s budget
By the end of the day Saturday, there were 71 budget amendments submitted. It’s not clear how many of the 52 remaining amendments will be debated.
Alaska House committee votes against $3,000 PFDs over concerns about future permanent fund earnings
Lawmakers must decide whether the state should follow the formula in a 1982 state law or follow a different law that limits how much can be drawn from permanent fund earnings.
Much work remains for a state budget that’s seen few changes so far
While there have been some significant changes to what Dunleavy proposed, they’re far less extensive than the changes two years ago.
In state budget testimony, more Alaskans favor spending on state programs over cutting
Most offered support for specific state programs like the Alaska Marine Highway System and the community assistance program.
Alaska Senate Finance Committee starts to hear public testimony on proposed state budget
While all Alaska residents can call in to any of the meetings, the committee prefers that residents from different parts of the state call in at specific times.