Legislature(2009 - 2010)
2010-01-19 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1234 SB 218 SENATE BILL NO. 218 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1235 "An Act suspending the motor fuel tax; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Revenue Governor's transmittal letter dated January 12: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that provides for a two-year suspension of the State's motor fuel tax. Alaskans continue to face some of the highest food, fuel, and living costs in the nation. These costs are placing a very difficult burden on many Alaskans. In order to help every Alaskan family I am proposing that the State motor fuel tax be suspended for a period of two years. The actual amount of money saved by suspending the fuel tax would vary depending on the type of fuel being purchased; however, most consumers should save eight cents per gallon when filling up their vehicles. It is important to note that while the motor fuel tax suspension program would provide temporary assistance, we still need to work together to seek long term solutions to the energy cost issues facing us. My administration's goals to make greater in-state use of our own oil, gas, and coal, increase our renewables, support greater conservation efforts, and continue to provide help for Alaskans who need it, will help reduce energy costs in the long term. It is the needs of Alaska's families, communities, and businesses that justify the proposal contained in this legislation. I believe that we should lighten the burden placed on residents by our higher gasoline costs, whenever we can. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1236 I urge your prompt and favorable action on this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor