The Legislature is now past the halfway point of a 90-day session and both houses are in full swing. This week is again busy with confirmations on the Governor’s appointments and legislative hearings on the Governor’s Crime package, Education, Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), Medicaid, and the Operating Budget.
The Governor’s proposed budget is driving the larger debate regarding a sustainable and durable fiscal plan. Important and needed discussions are taking place relating to the choices facing all Alaskans: what should state government be responsible for? How much government do Alaskans need? What are the critical budget priorities? What is the role of the Permanent Fund and the dividend program? Should there be a cap on spending?
The decisions facing the state are not abstract numbers — they are real. Now that tough decisions must be made, Alaskans — as expected — will disagree, debate, and fight for their priorities. Public debate and checks and balances are healthy, which is why separate branches of government with separate responsibilities exist. Ultimately, the Legislature has the power of appropriation. So, now is the time for Alaska Chamber members, local communities, organizations, business owners, and all interested Alaskans to get involved and work together to solve the fiscal challenges plaguing our state.
As always, for more information about the [Alaska] Chamber's legislative advocacy program, please reach me by email
here
or by phone at (907) 278-2729.
Regards,
Albert Fogle
Vice President
