House Majority E-News Headlines

Legislature Takes Aim at Cardiovascular Disease - House Passes HCR 20 Designating February 2012 as American Heart Month in Alaska

Fri, 3 Feb 2012 15:14:17 -0800

Representative Peggy Wilson's resolution recognizing the importance of education and skills that increase survival rates from heart disease passed the Alaska House unanimously this morning. HCR 20 designates February 2012 as American Heart Month in Alaska.

As a Registered Nurse, Wilson recognizes the importance of the continuing fight against heart disease and urges citizens to commit to a life-long pledge of healthy living.

An average of 803,000 people die each year of cardiovascular disease.

House Passes Bill Helping Military Transition Into AK Workforce - Thomas' HB 282 applies military training, education towards licensing or college

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 15:24:36 -0800

Contact : Aaron Schroeder, 465-3732

Military personnel separating from service stand to gain help transitioning into the civilian workforce or college under a bill passed by the Alaska House this morning.

The House unanimously passed Finance Co-Chair Bill Thomas' HB 282. The bill directs the state's Division of Corporations, Business & Professional Licensing, along with the University of Alaska and vocational education facilities, to examine the soldier's military credentials and experience, and credit them towards any applicable licensing requirements and educational credits.

"Alaska sees 1,200 separating service members each year. That's 1,200 potential workers who could contribute to our state's economy. It is our responsibility to assist in their transition into our workforce should they choose to stay and commit to Alaska - if they commit to building their lives and families here we need to commit to them," Thomas, R-Haines, said. "Many of our brave men and women received valuable, quality training through the military and it's only right to have the state and schools take it into account - giving them a swift and effective transition."

House Approves Making July 30 "AK National Guard Day" - Lynn's HB247 recognizes Guard's service to Alaskans and others

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:49:20 -0800

The men and women of the Alaska National Guard will have an annual day of recognition under a bill passed by the Alaska House of Representatives today.

State Affairs Committee Chair Bob Lynn's House Bill 247, which passed unanimously, establishes July 30 of every year as "Alaska National Guard Day." Lynn said the Guard has a record of service and achievement stretching from Barrow to Ketchikan, and around the world that should be celebrated, even with a symbolic gesture like setting aside one day a year.

"The National Guard honors Alaska, and we should honor the Alaska National Guard with a special day of recognition. That's what this bill is all about," Lynn said. "The Guard can't be mentioned in the same sentence without the words 'assist', 'deploy', 'help', 'perform', 'rescue', 'save' or 'serve'."

House Passes Bill to Help Seniors & People with Disabilities have a Better Voice in Transportation Planning - HB 131 follows recommendations of Governor's Coordinated Transportation Task Force

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:23:03 -0800

Contact : Terry Harvey, 465-5392

The Alaska House passed a bill today to create an Alaska Community and Public Transportation Advisory Board to help seniors and people with disabilities have a better voice in state transportation planning.

House Bill 131, sponsored by Rep. Cathy Munoz, R-Juneau, would set up a 13-member board including three members with expertise in the transportation needs of senior citizens, persons of disability, those with low income, or people who rely on public transit. One member would be from a nonprofit organization that operates a mode of public transportation, one who represents a municipality that operates public transit, another who represents a transportation provider who gets federal funding available to Indian tribes, and two who are members of the public. The remaining five members would be from various agencies.

The measure is based on recommendations made in February 2010 by the Governors' Coordinated Transportation Task Force.

Rural Legislators Comment on Moore Settlement - Herron, Dick Thankful for Resolution and New Path Forward on Rural Education

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:29:07 -0800

A pair of rural representatives today released the following statements after attending the announcement of a settlement in the Moore v. State education case. The State of Alaska settled with the plaintiffs, Citizens for the Educational Advancement for Alaska's Children, or CEAAC following 10 months of negotiations and nearly eight years of litigation. Details of the settlement are available at http://gov.alaska.gov/parnell/press-room/full-press-release.html?pr=6016.

Representative Bob Herron, D-Bethel

Boy, this is a long time coming. When I was on the Lower Kuskokwim School District Board in the early 1990s, the discussion was about the adequacy level of education to rural districts. So collectively, the school districts and the parents that lived and worked in those parts of the state of Alaska decided that we had to get the state's attention. The Kassayulie case is resolved. It has taken 13 years. The Moore case took eight years. Even with all that, today is a day of beginning, a day of celebration, but a day that means that from now on the focus will have to be sharp on educating fairly all Alaska's students - all Alaska's children.

Speaker Continues In-State Gasline Development Push - Chenault & Hawker Incorporate AGDC Recommendations into Omnibus Package - Measure Ensures Energy Security, Opportunity and Aligns Existing State Efforts

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:50:23 -0800

House Speaker Mike Chenault, R-Nikiski, today presented comprehensive legislation advancing the Alaska Gasline Development Corp's (AGDC) development of an instate gas pipeline project.

The package combines several existing bills with recommendations by AGDC and additional tools to bring Alaskans closer to a natural gas pipeline project, ensuring the state's energy security and providing a catalyst for future economic growth.

Speaker Chenault said AGDC has done tremendous work developing a solid, aggressive project plan for an instate gas pipeline, and expects this legislation to allow AGDC to advance this work to the point of project sanctioning, at which time state policy makers will have an opportunity to determine the state's involvement in construction and operations. At the same time, the legislation also enables AGDC to stand as a strong partner on behalf of Alaskans in the event the major producers align in a project as proposed by Governor Parnell.

Norway Policy Tour Resolution Introduced - HCR 19 Acknowledges Lessons Learned From 2011 Tour

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:01:47 -0800

Economic Development, Trade & Tourism Special Committee Chair Bob Herron recently introduced House Concurrent Resolution 19, which would acknowledge the lessons learned from the 2011 Norway Policy Tour and encourage investment in the state's oil and gas industry. The tour, organized as an educational tool by the Institute of the North, consisted of 45 Alaskans, including legislators, oil industry representatives, renewable energy advocates, local government representatives, and investors.

Herron said the hope of this resolution is to create a discussion among legislators that could lead to legislation being introduced based on the "Norway model" that would improve how Alaska regulates its oil industry.

"The Norwegians enjoy robust investment in their oil fields," Herron, D-Bethel, said. "The resolution asks the Legislature to carefully consider any aspects of the Norwegian model that could be applied in Alaska to increase oil production." HCR 19 also recommends that the state supports conferences regarding Arctic investment and involvement in the Arctic Council, which is a high-level intergovernmental forum to promote cooperation, coordination and interaction among the Arctic States.

Alaska Northern Waters Task Force Submits Recommendations - Task Force Proposes Key Changes to Arctic Policy, Infrastructure, and Resource Development

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:33:10 -0800

Contact : Christine Hess, 465-4833; Weston Eiler, 465-3873

The Alaska Northern Waters Task Force (ANWTF) released its preliminary report recommending improvements to state and federal Arctic policy today. The Legislature established the task force in 2010 to address increased interest in the Arctic and elevate government and stakeholder participation in Arctic issues.

"The task force worked hard to identify what Alaska needs to meet the opportunities and challenges in the rapidly changing Arctic," said Representative Reggie Joule (R-Kotzebue), the task force's chairman. "As worldwide demand for natural resources brings increased attention to the Arctic, Alaska needs to capitalize on the potential economic benefits while providing for sustainable communities and the environment."

The task force held 10 hearings throughout the state, including visits to Barrow, Nome, Bethel, Wales, Unalaska, Kotzebue, Wainwright, and Anchorage. Their work includes 21 recommendations to advance state leadership in Arctic policies related to marine transportation, national security, and resource development.

Session Priorities Set - Legislative Package Chosen - Co-chairs Say Trio of Bills are Built to Safeguard Alaska's Veterans

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:17:51 -0800

Contact : Aaron Schroeder, 465-3732

The Co-chairs of the Alaska Legislature's Joint Veterans Caucus today released their priorities for the second session. Co-Chairs Rep. Bill Thomas and Sen. Charlie Huggins say the legislative package of three bills are safeguards for Alaska's veterans, providing them with security, opportunity and recognition for their service.

"Our legislation this year is focused on our commitment to them," Thomas, R-Haines, said. "We need to safeguard our veterans, active duty members and their families." Thomas said Alaska sees roughly 2,000 separated or retiring service members each year. "Our veterans need to be able to use the valuable experience they have gained in order to support their families and strengthen our economy," he said.

The Caucus chose to focus primarily on three bills by Rep. Thomas: House Bill 234, HB 281 and HB 282.

Lynn Prefiles Bill to Cut State Drug Costs - Also Requiring Insurance Policies to Cover Colorectal Screenings for Retired Public Employees

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:31:30 -0800

Contact : Jeremiah Campbell, 465-5284

Rep. Bob Lynn announced today he has pre-filed legislation that would save the state money through increased use of generic drugs and save lives by requiring insurance policies to cover colorectal screenings for retired public employees. Lynn says it's a matter of saving money and saving lives. "It's more benefits for the buck.

"Currently, colorectal screenings are not covered as a preventative service under policies for retired public employees," Lynn, R-Anchorage, said. "Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths for people 50 and older in the United States. If detected through early screening, the more serious forms of colorectal cancer and the expensive care required for treatment can often be avoided."

Lynn said many states are trying to reduce unnecessary costs of health care without compromising quality. One strategy is to require the use of generic drugs which are clinically equivalent and often sold at a fraction of the cost of brand names. Brand name prescriptions would still be covered under certain conditions.

Rep. Lynn Proposes Annual Alaska National Guard Day

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 12:35:49 -0800

Contact : Jeremiah Campbell, 465-5284

House State Affairs Committee Chair Bob Lynn has pre-filed a bill to set aside July 30 as an annual day for honoring the men and women of the Alaska National Guard.

Lynn, a U.S. Air Force retiree and Anchorage Republican, said Alaska National Guard Day will honor all those who serve in the guard "for their tremendous bravery, sacrifice and their commitment to our communities, to our state and to our nation."

The date was chosen to reflect the War Department's decision to formally authorize the formation of the Alaska National Guard on July 30, 1948.

Costello Intros Bill Encouraging Small Business Growth

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 12:26:40 -0800

Contact : Jeremiah Campbell, 465-5284

Today Representative Costello announced the pre-filing of legislation stimulating the small business industry in Alaska by exempting qualified businesses from paying the state's corporate income tax. The bill also aims to foster a better environment for entrepreneurs to secure venture capital and help keep their businesses in Alaska.

Alaska has the fifth highest corporate income tax rate in the nation, topping out at 9.4 percent, according to the independent Tax Foundation.

"'C' corporations in Alaska currently face one of the highest corporate income tax rates in the country," Costello, R-Anchorage, said. "This bill would give small start ups a chance to get on their feet before coming under the state's high tax rate."

Keller Introducing Resolution to Assure a Federal Balanced Budget

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:56:08 -0800

Representative Wes Keller, R-Wasilla, today announced he will file a resolution that sends Washington a message, and asks the other states to join and support organization of a limited authority national constitution convention. The subject of the convention would be to pass an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that requires approval from a majority of the state's legislatures before the federal debt limit can be raised.

"The timing of the resolution could not be more critical with the federal government spending more and more money that it does not have," Keller said. "The administration just announced Tuesday that it needs another $1.2 trillion. There seems to be no incentive to live within our means. If some control is not put in place this country will be facing the same situation as Greece and Italy. That is a price we cannot afford to pay."

The resolution invokes Article V of the U.S. Constitution that requires the formation of a constitution convention if the federal government is petitioned by 2/3s, or 34, of the states. In this case the convention would only deal with the debt ceiling increase.

VVA Urges All Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange Be Screened for Prostate Cancer

Wed, 7 Dec 2011 13:37:46 -0800

Contact : Aaron Schroeder, 465-3732

"Veterans exposed to Agent Orange are at least twice as likely to develop prostate cancer; their recurrence rates are higher; and recurring cancers are more aggressive," noted Dr. Thomas Berger, Executive Director of VVA's Veterans Health Council, before today's Congressional Men's Health Caucus Prostate Cancer Task Force. Berger urged his fellow Vietnam veterans to get screened, noting "it's worth the fight."

Legislators Welcome Norwegian Cruise Line's Alaska Expansion - Company bringing additional ship, estimates 38,000 more visitors for the 2013 season

Tue, 6 Dec 2011 00:26:21 -0800

House Special Committee on Economic Development, Trade & Tourism Chair Bob Herron today heralded news that Norwegian Cruise Lines plans to add a ship to their Alaska fleet in time for the 2013 season.

"More visitors to our state equals more exposure, money and jobs for our state," Herron said. "This indeed encourages timely economic development opportunities for Alaskans and delivers on the promise given by the industry."

The Sun will sail between Vancouver, British Columbia and Whittier, Alaska beginning in late May 2013. The 1900-plus passenger vessel will bring an estimated 40,000 more visitors to Alaska.

ANWR Exploration Resolution Gains National Support - National Conference of State Legislatures approves AK delegation's measure

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 00:57:49 -0800

Contact : Will Vandergriff, 465-5284

Alaska scored a major victory for responsible exploration and development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) 10-02 coastal plain today.

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) full membership at its Fall Forum voted 22-3 supporting oil and gas exploration and development in ANWR. It is now a policy directive for NCSL.

"It's critical that we develop Alaska's energy resources to benefit our state and nation," Rep. Dan Saddler, R-JBER/Eagle River, said. "I'm honored to make our case to other state legislators and I'm very pleased that the NCSL gave us their support on the policies developed by representatives [Carl] Gatto and [Lance] Pruitt, opening ANWR to responsible oil and gas development."

Herron thankful for Son Charles's Safety after Ordeal - Son of Bethel Rep in Stable Condition after Going Missing This Morning

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 22:37:11 -0800

Charles Herron, son of Bethel Representative Bob Herron, was found today in Bethel after going missing for more than eight hours early this morning. He is in stable condition at the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital. The family requests respect for their privacy at this time. Herron and family appreciate all who helped search for their son, and who prayed for his safe return.

Veterans Day Message - Legislative Caucus Co-Chairs Share Their Commitment and Appreciation of Our Veterans

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:19:09 -0800

Contact : Aaron Schroeder, 465-3732

The Co-Chairs of the Alaska Legislature's Joint Veteran's Caucus today released the following statements marking the celebration of Veterans Day.

The national holiday, also observed by the State of Alaska, is commemorated on the anniversary of the signing of the World War I Armistice, ending the war with Germany. The Armistice was signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The Congress amended the holiday, enacted as Armistice Day in 1919, to include all veterans in 1954.

Statements

Mat-Su Valley Delegation Members Oppose Legislative Council's Plans for Purchasing New Anchorage Office Building - Four Area Representatives Re-assert Concerns on Buying Former Unocal Property

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:37:36 -0800

Four State House members of the Legislature's Mat-Su Valley delegation sent a letter to the chairwoman of the Joint Legislative Council yesterday expressing their opposition to the proposed purchase of new Anchorage office space.

Area Representatives Bill Stoltze, Eric Feige, Wes Keller, and Mark Neuman signed the four paragraph letter to Legislative Council Chair Senator Linda Menard, R-Wasilla.

"We do not believe the proposed purchase is a sound business decision, nor do we believe it is prudent for the Legislature to be engaged in a discussion to purchase this or any other building," the letter states.

Speaker Maintains In-State Gas Momentum with New Legislation - Bill Represents Next Critical Step: Implementing AK Gasline Dev. Corp. Recommendations; Defining the Project and Expanding AGDC's Capabilities

Fri, 4 Nov 2011 22:05:22 -0800

Alaska Speaker of the House Mike Chenault today said he will introduce legislation empowering the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) to move forward on plans for an in-state natural gas pipeline.

"I commend Governor [Sean] Parnell for his desire to align the gasline efforts now on the table," Speaker Chenault, R-Nikiski, said. "This legislation provides the foundation for an in-state gasline that will deliver Alaska gas to Alaskans. Passage will make AGDC a powerful partner in an aligned project and also allow an in-state line to stand on its own."

"My highest priority is making sure the AGDC has every tool available to succeed, whether on its own or as part of a major export project."