Senators introduced four new bills Monday that would require local governments and schools to pay more for pensions, end two college scholarship programs, and cut the amount that municipalities receive in state funding. Towns and schools are concerned about the effect on taxes and services.
Andrew Kitchenman
State Government Reporter, Alaska Public Media & KTOO
State government plays an outsized role in the life of Alaskans. As the state continues to go through the painful process of deciding what its priorities are, I bring Alaskans to the scene of a government in transition.
Senate committee grills Hopkins on AGDC appointment
The Senate Resources Committee questioned whether Hopkins and other board members have the experience needed to make important decisions about the proposed AKLNG pipeline.
Marijuana businesses’ launch depends on Legislature acting
The Alaska Marijuana Control Board has put the brakes on issuing licenses until it can do national criminal background checks on applicants.
Walker to lawmakers: Putting off sustainable budget is ‘wholly unacceptable’
In a letter to legislators Wednesday, Gov. Bill Walker said continuing to draw on reserves without a solid plan to stop doing so is “wholly unacceptable.”
House committee’s oil and gas tax credit cut is a fraction of Walker’s
The Department of Revenue estimates the committee’s version of House Bill 247 would save the state roughly $160 million over the next three years. That compares with $1.175 billion in savings under Walker’s proposal.
Senator’s bill to draw from Permanent Fund advances
Sen. Lesil McGuire’s plan would take about $2 billion annually from the Permanent Fund. Gov. Bill Walker’s would take about $3.3 billion.