1998-01-16                     House Journal                      Page 2063
HB 326                                                                       
HOUSE BILL NO. 326 by the House Rules Committee by request of                  
the Governor, entitled:                                                        
                                                                               
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and capital                   
expenses of the state's integrated comprehensive mental health                 
program; and providing for an effective date."                                 
                                                                               
was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee.                 
                                                                               
A letter dated January 14, 1998, to the Alaska Mental Health Trust             
Authority from Annalee McConnell, Director, Office of Management               
and Budget, was attached and is on file in the Chief Clerk's office.           
                                                                               
The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 16, 1998, appears              
below:                                                                         
                                                                               
"Dear Speaker Phillips:                                                        
                                                                               
As part of the budget package I am presenting to the Legislature today,        
I am transmitting this separate appropriation bill for the states              
integrated, comprehensive mental health program.  This bill includes           

1998-01-16                     House Journal                      Page 2064
HB 326                                                                       
both operating and capital appropriations.  As required by statute, I          
have attached a report of the differences between my proposed budget           
and the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority.           
                                                                               
Several of my mental health budget increases are part of our Smart             
Start for Alaskas Children initiative which is funded by reallocating          
general funds previously needed to match federal Medicaid dollars.             
This reallocation provides much-needed resources for Mental Health             
Trust Authority beneficiaries throughout Alaska.                               
                                                                               
Funding for this bill comes from state general funds and Trust                 
Authority receipts.  In addition, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation           
receipts are used for housing-related capital projects.                        
                                                                               
This bill is a comprehensive package that has been developed through           
a positive and productive working relationship between my                      
Administration, members of the Board of Trustees, and their staff.  We         
look forward to working with the Legislature to support these proposed         
investments for Trust beneficiaries.                                           
                                                                               
						Sincerely,                                                               
						/s/                                                                      
						Tony Knowles                                                             
						Governor"