Hello from sunny Juneau,

We are now on Day 98 of the legislative session and some of you may be wondering why. While the 90 day session is in Alaska statute, Article II Sec. VIII of the Constitution of the State of Alaska asserts:

"The Legislature shall adjourn from regular session no later than one hundred twenty consecutive calendar days from the date it convenes except that a regular session may be extended once for up to ten consecutive calendar days." 

While our time here is extended, the House Republican Caucus remains committed to resolving the state's fiscal challenges in a way that does not harm economic growth and ensures essential services are provided for in efficient and sustainable ways.  I do not believe an income tax is part of the solution and remain opposed. South Anchorage constituent Bob Kaufman perhaps puts it best in his recent opinion piece in the Alaska Dispatch News:

Income tax? Not until the state gets its house in order

The income tax bill, House Bill 115, will be heard in Senate Labor and Commerce this week. We  are also currently awaiting the House Majority's conference committee appointment on the budget. While the process continues on, Pam and I hope to be back with you in the district soon!