Dear friends,

The special session just ended on September 14th. After a month of deliberation on various issues, the Alaska Legislature gaveled out after creating legislation that addresses some longstanding issues. The longstanding issues include the budget, the Permanent Fund Dividend, and COVID-related issues. SB 3006 which seeks to expand Telehealth and medicine, was approved by the Senate on September 1oth. After a lengthy session on September 12^th with more than 25 proposed amendments, the House sent the bill back to the Rules Committee. The House cancelled its session on September 13^th.

The End of the 3rd Special Session

The third special session ended on Tuesday, September 14^th after HB3003, the appropriation bill, was approved by the House (24-16) and Senate (12-7). The Bill includes a $1,100 PFD which should be paid in mid-October. The $1,100 PFD will be paid for with money from the General Fund and the Statutory Budget Reserve. The following appropriations were also included in the Bill.

· $4.8 million for renewable energy projects.

· $10.5 million for tourism marketing.

· $16 million in federal aid for COVID pandemic response.

Governor Dunleavy signed the bill on Wednesday.

The Beginning of the 4th Special Session

Governor Mike Dunleavy called the Legislature into a Fourth Special Session to begin on October 1^st at 10:00 a.m. The agenda is limited to an act or acts relating to a fiscal plan.

Alaska Redistricting

The Alaska Redistricting Board has approved 2 draft redistricting maps.

· The Redistricting Board will adopt its final proclamation plan no later than November 10, 2021.

· The Alaska Redistricting Board is working to redraw legislative district boundaries in Alaska with a goal of 18,335 residents per district, plus or minus 5%.

· September 21: The date the board will decide to adopt any third-party draft maps.

· November 10-December 10: 30-day constitutional period for any legal challenges.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to my office at any time:

L. Keith Bauguess

Legislative Staff

907.269.0155

Besse Odom

Legislative Staff

907.269.0174

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I’m Senator Elvi, always.....

"Listening and Representing Your Interests!”