The end of the session is fast approaching. The House Rules and the Senate Finance committees are working on their versions of the budget as we work towards an adjournment package. I have been closely following their progress and am prepared for some lively debates on the Senate floor!
In the meantime, my office has been busy working hard for you and the rest of our neighbors. This week's newsletter highlights several important issues and one of my bills that passed the Legislature today.
I want to hear from you! Please feel free to email me anytime or call my office at 907-465-3879 to share your thoughts, questions, and concerns.
As always, I'm honored to serve you and I hope you have a fantastic week!
Blessings,
Federal Land Allotment Delay is a Slap in the Face to Alaska Native Vietnam Veterans and their Families
Last month, the federal government announced that it would once again delay the release of 28 million acres of Alaskan land it promised to the state for mineral development.
Not only is this action another blow to Alaska's right to responsibly develop its resources, it further postpones a program that gives Alaska Native Vietnam Veterans the opportunity to select a plot of federal land in Alaska. After more than 50 years of waiting, the continued disrespect shown to those who served honorably is unacceptable.
Senate Bill 69 will help small, private-sector renewable energy producers provide Alaskans with power at no extra cost to consumers or the state. Most importantly, by removing redundant regulations, it promotes energy innovation in Alaska and ensures that Alaskans will have access to more diverse sources of energy into the future.
This bill is another step in my effort to promote an all-of-the-above approach to energy and resource development. By supporting private-sector renewable energy projects, we are diversifying Alaska's economy and ensuring that Alaska remains a leader in renewable energy investment and development.
Additionally, the top 3 fastest-growing occupations in the US are Wind Turbine Technician, Nurse Practitioner, and Solar Installer. With the passage of SB 69, we also help secure Alaska as a front runner in capturing these renewable-energy jobs.
Many thanks to all my colleagues in the Senate and House who have supported SB 69, to Representative Schrage for carrying it on the House floor, and to everyone who has reached out to me in support of removing overburdensome regulations on small businesses in Alaska.
Watch the speech I gave on SB 69 before it passed the Senate in March:
Governor Signs HB 76 and Ends Statewide Disaster Declaration
Governor Mike Dunleavy signed HB 76 and ended the statewide disaster declaration at the end of last month. By doing so, Alaskans are able to receive over a billion dollars of federal recovery money to get us back on our feet economically without the declaration continuing.
My Amendment to HB 76 Supporting Alaskan Charities Passes Unanimously
Before HB 76 passed the legislature and went to the Governor, I worked with Senator Kawasaki and Representative LaBon to amend it so that it is easier for Alaskan non-profits to hold their fundraising raffles online.
During the last year, COVID-19 prohibited normal fundraising. As a result, online fundraising has become absolutely critical for these charities to continue their essential work in the state. My amendment fixed several issues with the law so that qualifying Alaskan non-profits have full access to this online method of fundraising.
Thank you to Senator Kawasaki and the rest of my colleagues for their support and to my fellow Alaskans for bringing this issue to my attention.
Return Ballots by May 11th for the Mayor Runoff Election!
WHEN: Ballots must be postmarked or returned by 8pm on May 11th for the Mayoral Runoff Election.
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Local Contacts
Track bills by texting a bill number to 559-245-2529 or visiting akleg.gov. Rep. Laddie Shaw (District 26): 907-465-4945
Rep. Calvin Schrage (District 25): 907-465-4931
