I am pleased to announce the Alaska State Senate has organized for the 32nd legislative session and that our Senate President will be Senator Peter Micciche. I am glad to call Peter a friend and colleague and look forward to working with him. Peter has served in the Senate since 2013, is a retiree from the vital oil and gas industry, and is also a commercial salmon fisherman.
Additionally, I am honored to have been selected by my colleagues to be the Chairman of the Resources Committee. As Alaskans we are blessed to be living in a state with an abundance of natural resources that provide for essential state services. I will do my best to make sure we continue to responsibly develop our resources while generating revenue and jobs for Alaskans.
The 32nd Legislature will face dual problems: a state struggling with a historic pandemic that has caused record unemployment and economic hardship, and a long-term budget crisis that has drained the State's budget reserves. These challenges are daunting, but I am committed to finding solutions that continue to deliver services and provide relief for Alaskans most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am looking forward to working closely with all my colleagues in the Senate towards solving the challenges we face.
It is a privilege to represent you and the rest of our neighbors in District M. As always, I remain committed to working hard for you and the rest of our neighbors! Please don't hesitate to contact my office with any questions or concerns.