1999-01-21                     Senate Journal                      Page 0046
SB 31                                                                        
SENATE BILL NO. 31 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE                               
BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled:                                          
                                                                               
An Act making appropriations for the operating                                
and capital expenses of the states integrated                                  
comprehensive mental health program; and providing                             
for an effective date.                                                         
                                                                               
was read the first time and referred to the Health, Education and              
Social Services and Finance Committees.                                        
                                                                               
Governors transmittal letter dated January 20:                                 
                                                                               
Dear President Pearce:                                                         
                                                                               
As part of the budget package I present to the Legislature today, I            
am transmitting this separate appropriation bill for the states                
integrated, comprehensive mental health program.  This bill includes           
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.                                                                     
                                                                               
                                                                               

1999-01-21                     Senate Journal                      Page 0047
SB 31                                                                        
Alaska has made great progress in serving mental health settlement             
beneficiaries and emphasizing community-based services.  This                  
proposed FY2000 mental health bill continues that progress with                
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                                                                  
                                                                               
Attachment                                                                     
                                                                               
In accordance with AS 37.14.003(b) a report of the differences                 
between the Governors proposed budget and the recommendations                  
of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority was attached.