Extend Regulatory Comm. Of Alaska Sunset

SCS CSHB 24(FIN) extends the sunset date for the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA) to June 30, 2013.

I encourage all the members to review the Legislative Audit summary and the full audit report. You will see that in the opinion of our auditors, the RCA is serving a public purpose and has demonstrated an effort to resolve issues brought forward by prior audits.

Legislative Audit has recommended 8 year extension. In this bill the RCA would be extended for 2 years. This more conservative extension will give the Legislature confidence that the required action items in a recent audit are completed.

The RCA serves an important role in the everyday lives of the residents of Alaska. The rate oversight of public utilities and pipelines in Alaska help control the prices consumers pay for heat and lights. The continuation of the Commission is very important.

Thank you for your support of this legislation.