Legislature(2009 - 2010)
2009-03-20 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0589 SENATE JOURNAL ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE TWENTY-SIXTH LEGISLATURE FIRST SESSION Juneau, Alaska Friday March 20, 2009 Sixtieth Day Pursuant to adjournment the Senate was called to order by President pro tempore Stedman at 10:25 a.m. The roll showed fourteen members present. Senators Ellis, Kookesh, Stevens were excused from a call of the Senate. Senators Hoffman, McGuire were absent. The seat from District B was vacant. The prayer was offered by the Chaplain, Senator Meyer. Senator Olson moved and asked unanimous consent that the prayer be spread. Without objection, it was so ordered. Let us pray, Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the privilege of serving this great state in the Senate. We pray that you will give us the strength and the wisdom to make the right decisions for the people of Alaska, who have placed their trust in us to represent them. Lord, let us not forget the children, the elderly, the poor, and those with special needs who are not able to communicate their needs to us. Thank you for the freedom that we enjoy in this country. Please be with those who protect our freedom. Please be with the men and women serving our country inside, and outside of our borders. Keep them safe and bring them home soon. In Your Name, I pray. Amen. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0590 Senator Menard led the Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance. Certification Senator Huggins, Acting Majority Leader, moved and asked unanimous consent that the journals for the fifty-eighth and fifty-ninth legislative days be approved as certified by the Secretary. Without objection, it was so ordered. The presence of Senators Kookesh, Hoffman, McGuire was noted. Messages from the House SJR 5 Message dated March 19 was read stating the House passed and returned: CS FOR SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5(FIN) Urging the United States Department of Defense to continue to provide retirement benefits for members of the Alaska Territorial Guard who served during World War II. The resolution was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. SB 50 Message dated March 19 was read stating the House passed and returned: SENATE BILL NO. 50 "An Act relating to Iditarod finisher special request license plates." The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. Messages dated March 18 and 19 were read stating the House passed and transmitted for consideration: 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0591 First Reading and Reference of House Resolutions HJR 7 CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 7(RES) BY THE HOUSE RESOURCES COMMITTEE, Urging the United States Congress to pass legislation to open the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas exploration, development, and production. was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. Senators Therriault, Wagoner and Bunde's names were added as cross sponsors on the resolution. HJR 18 CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 18(RES) BY THE HOUSE RESOURCES COMMITTEE, Urging the United States Congress to refrain from passing legislation that designates land in Area 1002 of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as wilderness. was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. Senators Therriault, Wagoner and Bunde's names were added as cross sponsors on the resolution. HJR 19 HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 19 BY REPRESENTATIVES AUSTERMAN, Harris, Gara, Guttenberg, Lynn, Gardner, Kerttula, Seaton, Thomas, Stoltze, Herron, Buch, Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Exxon Valdez oil spill and supporting the continued practice of accompanying each oil tanker through Prince William Sound with at least a two vessel escort. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0592 was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs Committee. Standing Committee Reports Report dated March 18 was read stating: In accordance with AS 39.05.080, the Health and Social Services Committee reviewed the following and recommends the appointments be forwarded to a joint session for consideration: Commissioner - Department of Health and Social Services William H. Hogan State Medical Board Edward A. Hall - Anchorage Casey M. Millar - Anchorage Dr. David A. Miller - Juneau Dr. David J. Powers - Dillingham Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority Board of Trustees Dr. William Doolittle - Fairbanks Mary Jane Michael - Anchorage Chief Daniel Hoffman - Fairbanks Board of Dental Examiners Robyn Chaney - Dillingham Dr. Mary Anne Navitsky - Sitka Deborah Stauffer - Anchorage Dr. Clifford Douglas White - Dillingham Board of Marital and Family Therapy Kimberly K. Horn - Juneau Patricia A. White - Juneau Board of Certified Direct-Entry Midwives Barbara Norton - Anchorage Board of Nursing Thomas Hendrix - Eagle River Janine L. McCready - Fairbanks 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0593 Board of Examiners in Optometry Dr. Dennis A. Swarner - Kenai Board of Pharmacy Leah Handley - Homer Steve R. Johnson - Palmer Chris "CJ" Kim - Anchorage Mary D. Mundell - Wasilla Board of Professional Counselors Ray DePalatis - Anchorage Lillian Mitchell - Anchorage Tashawna L. Olson - Homer Board of Psychologist and Psychological Associate Examiners Dr. Kristi H. Fuller - Anchorage Board of Social Work Examiners Darrell Allman - Anchorage Gail La Rose-Henderson - Wasilla Patty McMillin - Bethel This does not reflect an intent by any of the members to vote for or against the confirmation of the individuals during any further sessions. Signing the report: Senator Davis, Chair; Senators Paskvan, Dyson. Report dated March 18 was read stating: In accordance with AS 39.05.080, the Senate Judiciary Committee met in joint session with the House Judiciary Committee and reviewed the following names with regard to confirmation: Commission on Judicial Conduct Chris Brown - Anchorage Board of Parole Lonzo Henderson - Anchorage 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0594 There were no stated objections to the named individuals. This does not reflect an intent by any of the members to vote for or against the individuals during any further sessions. Signing the report: Senator French, Chair; Senators McGuire, Wielechowski, Therriault. SB 11 The Health and Social Services Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 11 "An Act relating to health care insurance coverage of a dependent child who is less than 26 years of age and making a conforming age amendment in the statute describing health insurance policies that may be delivered or issued in this state." Signing do pass: Senator Davis, Chair; Senator Paskvan. Signing no recommendation: Senator Dyson. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, University of Alaska The bill was referred to the Labor and Commerce Committee. SB 69 The State Affairs Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 69 "An Act reestablishing the Alaska Commission on the Status of Women; and relating to the purpose and powers of the Alaska Human Relations Commission" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 69(STA) Signing do pass: Senator Menard, Chair; Senators French, Meyer, Paskvan. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Office of the Governor The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0595 SB 73 The Judiciary Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 73 "An Act relating to the use of headlights when operating a motor vehicle" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 73(JUD) "An Act relating to the use of headlights when operating a motor vehicle; and providing for an effective date." Signing do pass: Senator French, Chair. Signing no recommendation: Senators Therriault, Wielechowski, McGuire. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Transportation and Public Facilities The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Public Safety President pro tempore Stedman added a Finance Committee referral to the bill. The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. SB 78 The State Affairs Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 78 "An Act relating to the powers and duties of the legislative audit division" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 78(STA) Signing do pass: Senator Menard, Chair. Signing no recommendation: Senators French, Meyer, Paskvan. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Legislative Agency The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0596 SB 127 The Community and Regional Affairs Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 127 "An Act establishing the Southeast State Forest and relating to the Southeast State Forest; and providing for an effective date." Signing no recommendation: Senator Olson, Chair. Signing do pass: Senators Thomas, Menard. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Natural Resources The bill was referred to the Resources Committee. SB 129 The Community and Regional Affairs Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 129 "An Act relating to state and municipal building code requirements for fire sprinkler systems in certain residential buildings." Signing no recommendation: Senator Olson, Chair; Senator Thomas. Signing do pass: Senator Menard. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Public Safety The bill was referred to the State Affairs Committee. SB 138 The Labor and Commerce Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 138 "An Act relating to a corporation income tax credit for contributions by a person owning or operating a commercial passenger vessel to a qualified trade association that was awarded a contract by the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, and used for planning and executing a destination tourism marketing campaign" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 138(L&C) Signing do pass: Senator Paskvan, Chair, Senators Meyer, Thomas, Davis. Signing no recommendation: Senator Bunde. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Revenue The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0597 HB 63 The State Affairs Committee considered CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 63(FIN) "An Act relating to the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault" and recommended it be replaced with SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 63(STA) Signing do pass: Senator Menard, Chair; Senators French, Meyer, Paskvan. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Corrections Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Public Safety Fiscal Note No. 3, zero, Department of Health and Social Services The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. HJR 17 The Judiciary Committee considered CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 17(JUD) Urging the United States Congress to reject H.R. 45, the Blair Holt's Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act of 2009, and recommended it be replaced with SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 17(JUD) Signing do pass: Senator French, Chair, Senators Therriault, Wielechowski, McGuire. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, House Judiciary Committee The resolution was referred to the Rules Committee. Introduction and Reference of Senate Resolutions SJR 15 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0598 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15 BY SENATOR DYSON, Urging the United States Congress not to reinstate the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. SJR 16 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 16 BY SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI, Expressing support for environmentally sound and culturally sensitive development of the oil and gas resources in federal waters offshore of Alaska's coast as a means to ensure energy independence, security for the nation, and jobs for Alaskans; and urging the United States Congress to provide a means for consistently sharing with all coastal energy- producing states, on an ongoing basis, revenue generated from oil and gas development on the outer continental shelf, to ensure that those states develop, support, and maintain necessary infrastructure and preserve environmental integrity. was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. SCR 4 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 4 BY SENATORS STEDMAN, French, Certifying that the State of Alaska requests and will use any funds provided to the state, a state agency, a municipality, or a political subdivision of the state under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. was read the first time and referred to the Rules Committee. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0599 Introduction and Reference of Senate Bills SB 158 SENATE BILL NO. 158 BY SENATOR DYSON, entitled: "An Act relating to the return of property used as evidence to the owner." was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. SB 159 SENATE BILL NO. 159 BY SENATOR PASKVAN, entitled: "An Act increasing the maximum funeral expenses payable as a workers' compensation death benefit; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. SB 160 SENATE BILL NO. 160 BY SENATOR HUGGINS BY REQUEST, entitled: "An Act relating to the maximum amount of uninsured and underinsured coverage payable under multiple motor vehicle insurance policies issued by the same insurer in the same household." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation and Labor and Commerce Committees. SB 161 SENATE BILL NO. 161 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making supplemental appropriations and capital appropriations; amending appropriations; and providing for an effective date." 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0600 was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. A spreadsheet entitled "Economic Stimulus March 19, 2009" from the Office of Management and Budget was transmitted with the bill. Governor's transmittal letter dated March 19: Dear President Stevens: I am transmitting a second appropriation bill to implement the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). This bill contains authorization requests for capital projects designed to create jobs and promote economic growth within the State of Alaska. This appropriation bill does not include every ARRA program that runs to or through the State of Alaska. Under the direction of the Office of Management and Budget, I have asked our departments to review the Federal spending package with jobs for Alaskans in mind. This is particularly important because I must certify that all the funds I am requesting on behalf of the state will create jobs and promote economic growth. However, because I cannot yet in good conscience certify that all funds in the Federal stimulus package will be used to create jobs and stimulate our economy, I am requesting only job-ready funding and am encouraging a public discussion through the legislative process. There are three categories of funding that are not included in this legislation: programs with potential strings attached for receipt of the funds; competitive funding where the federal guidance and requirements are uncertain or unknown; and operating funds that increase existing federally funded programs above what is already included in the state budget to provide services to Alaskans. Programs that have been left out of this bill include those with outstanding questions, such as the impact on Alaskans of "strings" Congress attached to the funding, and tenuous or unclear links to job creation or economic growth. Descriptions of the specific issues for each program that has not been included in this legislation are set out in more detail later in this letter. 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0601 My concerns about ARRA spending too much on operating programs that leave the state responsible to pay for expanded services after federal funding ends were stated even before it was passed by Congress. I was disappointed when the final bill cut billions in spending for infrastructure and jobs in favor of operating programs. Despite such changes to the final version of ARRA, Congress maintained a requirement for Governor's to certify that ARRA funds will be used to create jobs and promote economic growth within their respective states. I respectfully request your assistance and that of the entire Legislature to hold hearings for review, and allow public testimony and debate on the projects included for funding in the bill as well as programs that have not been included. I understand the amount of hard work this effort will require and that this approach is definitely not the easy way out. The easy way would be to blindly say "yes" to all ARRA federal funds without concern, review, or discussion for the consequences to the state, individual Alaskans, and the nation. Our efforts at review and discussion would likely be made easier by issuance of clear final guidance documents from all federal agencies and adequate answers to specific questions we have posed about certain programs. The appropriation bill I am transmitting today contains capital projects requests totaling $252.5 million, with all but $1.0 million coming from economic stimulus funds. Capital projects requested include $20.7 million for education and job training, $68.6 million for water and sewer projects and storage tank replacements, $3.0 million for the Alaska Vocational Training Center, $2.5 million for Fire Fuels and Forest Management, $39.6 million for public housing projects through the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, and $116.0 million for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Research Vessel. We have also included two $1.0 million placeholders for competitive grant opportunities for state agencies and the University. After careful review of the assurances and requirements in ARRA under each title for receipt of federal economic stimulus funds, there are several items that are not included in this appropriation bill. Some items require statutory changes in order to receive and expend these 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0602 funds, or, in some instances, we have not yet obtained sufficient information upon which to base recommendations to you. Following is a list of the items and policy questions for legislative consideration: Unemployment Insurance - after review of the requirements to expand unemployment insurance benefits, I will not propose a revision to Alaska's current law to permanently change the calculation of unemployment insurance benefits that would result in a cost increase to employers and businesses. The statutory change would require that Alaskan businesses pick up this increased cost once the federal funds are no longer available. Increasing taxes on business is simply not the way to stimulate the economy. $15 million would be available to the state if the legislature makes a statutory change to comply with the new requirement. Once those funds are no longer available, the Department of Labor estimates a $2 million annual cost to the UI Trust Fund in the future. I would like to note that Alaska has already moved forward on accepting the additional $25 a week for unemployment benefits provided in ARRA. The additional weekly benefit is 100 percent federally funded and will benefit unemployed Alaskans and support the stability of Alaska's economy. The $25 additional benefit is payable for weeks of unemployment beginning February 22 2009 and continuing through the end of 2009 with a phase out for existing claims through July 3, 2010. Energy - three assurances that present challenges for Alaska are required in order to receive energy funds: (1) implementation of a general policy that ensures that electric and gas utility financial incentives are aligned with helping customers use energy more efficiently; (2) implementation of a statewide building energy code; and (3) an implementation plan for both pieces in order to achieve 90% compliance on new or renovated buildings within eight years. Without these assurances, the state will not qualify for $28.6 million for the State Energy Program, $18.5 million for Weatherization, and $8.5 million for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants. This administration is taking a proactive approach to address areas 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0603 where federal requirements in the economic stimulus bill create significant hurdles for receipt of funds, such as the adoption of a statewide building energy code. We currently are working with the U.S. Department of Energy to determine possible solutions that will allow Alaska to receive these funds. Air Quality Grants - Granting authority is needed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to receive and expend approximately $2 million from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the Diesel Emission Reduction Program. The goal of the program is to reduce diesel emissions with new technologies and to further advance these technologies to a larger audience. This is not a new program; DEC currently has a grant award from EPA and is already spending this funding on diesel emission reduction projects. Current funding is distributed to other government agencies such as the Alaska Energy Authority to increase the fuel efficiency of stationary source diesel power generation, the Alaska Railroad, and the Department of Transportation & Public Facilities for diesel equipment retrofit. Statutory language would be necessary for DEC to identify grantees beyond government agencies, such as smaller private sector businesses, that are looking to forward more efficient diesel fuel usage. Broadband and health information technology grants - These are two other areas that are not included in the appropriation bill. Gaining sufficient guidance from the federal agencies and a clear understanding of the requirements for receipt of the funds require additional time in order to develop the requests for these significant program areas. These programs fall under the long-range economic development strategies in the economic stimulus legislation. The administration is closely monitoring the evolution of guidelines in the relevant federal agencies in order to determine the benefits and timing of these funds. Other competitive grant funds for state agencies are also not included in this appropriation bill due to lack of information regarding the application process, amounts available, requirements, and other needed guidance. The Legislative Budget & Audit (LB&A) Committee process is certainly an option for legislative consideration 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0604 of funding requests during the interim or the FY2010 supplemental process is another option once more information on these programs becomes available. We have included a statewide placeholder for capital project grants for state agencies and also for the University to allow for LB&A consideration should agencies be successful in obtaining grant funds for capital projects. ARRA also provides competitive grant funding to non-state entities, communities, and organizations through the discretion of federal agencies that will flow directly to project applicants. We are communicating information to interested parties and guiding them to <Recovery.gov>, <Grants.gov>, and federal department websites. We are also posting information on the state website at alaska.gov/recovery. In conclusion I am required to certify that the requests I am forwarding for legislative approval will meet the requirements of the ARRA to create jobs and promote economic growth in Alaska. We are open to discussions on the operating funds that are not included in this appropriation bill. These program increases should be fully debated as part of the ongoing budget process. The Legislature has been working diligently on the operating budget for the next fiscal year to provide for the needs of Alaskans. Simply expanding these programs based on receipt of economic stimulus funds does not meet the ARRA certification requirement and creates an unrealistic expectation that the state will continue these programs when the federal funds are no longer available. The federal economic stimulus package will have profound implications for Alaska and the nation. The legislative process to consider proposed ARRA spending is crucial to developing a responsible approach to use of these funds. When the final tally of spending and borrowing is added up, current and future generations of Alaskans and all Americans will be required to pay what amounts to the biggest credit card bill in history. I appreciate your consideration of this legislation. Sincerely, /s/ Sarah Palin 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0605 Governor Consideration of the Calendar Second Reading of Senate Bills SB 58 SENATE BILL NO. 58 "An Act establishing February 2 of each year as Marmot Day; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. President pro tempore Stedman stated SENATE BILL NO. 58 will advance to third reading on the March 23 calendar. Citations Honoring - Alaska Supreme Court Justice Warren W. Matthews Representative(s) Holmes Senator(s) French, Stevens, Bunde, Davis, Dyson, Ellis, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Therriault, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Honoring - Bethel Regional High School Wrestling Team Representative(s) Herron Senator(s) Hoffman, Stevens, Bunde, Davis, Dyson, Ellis, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Therriault, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski In Memoriam - Charles Phillip Johnson Senator(s) Stevens, Bunde, Davis, Dyson, Ellis, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Therriault, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Representative(s) Austerman In Memoriam - Lauramar "Lolly" McKerley Senator(s) Stevens, Bunde, Davis, Dyson, Ellis, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Therriault, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Representative(s) Austerman 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0606 In Memoriam - Grace "Billye" Routzahn Senator(s) Stevens, Bunde, Davis, Dyson, Ellis, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Therriault, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Representative(s) Austerman Senator Huggins, Acting Majority Leader, moved and asked unanimous consent that the citations be adopted. Without objection, the citations were adopted and referred to the Secretary for transmittal. Unfinished Business HJR 19 President pro tempore Stedman added a Resources Committee referral to HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 19 Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Exxon Valdez oil spill and supporting the continued practice of accompanying each oil tanker through Prince William Sound with at least a two vessel escort. The resolution was referred to the State Affairs, then Resources Committees. Senator Meyer moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate on March 23. Without objection, Senator Meyer was excused. Senators French, McGuire moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate on March 23, to morning plane time. Without objection, Senators French, McGuire were excused. Senator Davis moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from March 21 through evening plane time, March 22. Without objection, Senator Davis was excused. SB 31 Senator Davis moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE BILL NO. 31 "An Act relating to a geothermal 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0607 electricity production tax credit under the Alaska Net Income Tax Act." Without objection, it was so ordered. Announcements Announcements are at the end of the journal. Adjournment Senator Huggins, Acting Majority Leader, moved and asked unanimous consent that the Senate stand in adjournment until 11:00 a.m., March 23, 2009. Without objection, the Senate adjourned at 11:10 a.m. Kirsten Waid Secretary of the Senate 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0608 Announcements Americans with Disabilities Act Notice - Persons with disabilities who require special accommodation or alternative communication formats to access committee meetings may contact the appropriate committee office or the Legislative Information Office in their community. Reasonable advance notice is needed to accommodate the request. For further information, call the ADA Coordinator at 465-3854 Voice/465-4980 TDD. STANDING COMMITTEES + indicates teleconference = indicates bill previously heard/scheduled COMMUNITY & REGIONAL AFFAIRS Mar 24 Tuesday Beltz 211 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Mar 26 Thursday Beltz 211 3:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- + SB 137 REPORT ON MEETINGS OF BOARD OF FISHERIES Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- EDUCATION Mar 20 Friday Beltz 211 8:00 AM + SB 134 PRUDENT MANAGEMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 23 Monday Beltz 211 8:00 AM + HB 109 EDUC. LOANS: SUPPLEMENTAL & FAMILY Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 25 Wednesday Beltz 211 8:00 AM + SB 105 FOSTER CARE/CINA/EDUCATION OF HOMELESS Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 27 Friday Beltz 211 8:00 AM Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0609 FINANCE Mar 20 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM -- MEETING CANCELED -- += SB 75 BUDGET: CAPITAL, SUPP. & OTHER APPROPS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 20 Friday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- += SB 75 BUDGET: CAPITAL, SUPP. & OTHER APPROPS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 21 Saturday Senate Finance 532 10:00 AM -- MEETING CANCELED -- += SB 75 BUDGET: CAPITAL, SUPP. & OTHER APPROPS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 23 Monday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + SB 161 APPROPS: NON-TRANSPORTATION STIMULUS += SB 89 RETIREMENT BENEFITS: TERRITORIAL GUARD + SB 125 AK AEROSPACE CORPORATION + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 23 Monday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM + Aviation Industry Presentation by Christine Klein, Deputy Commissioner, Aviation and Airports + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 24 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + HB 81 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS + HB 83 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET Close-out Reports + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 24 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM + Presentation on the EPA Cruise Ship Dilution Study + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0610 FINANCE (continued) Mar 25 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM += HB 81 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS += HB 83 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET Public Testimony 2 minute limit 9-10 am - Juneau 10-10:45 am - Kenai, Valdez, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Seward, Matsu, Glennallen, Tok 1:30 - 2:30 pm - Fairbanks 2:30 - 3:45 pm - Anchorage 4-5 pm - Sitka, Wrangell, Petersburg, Homer, Dillingham, Cordova 5-6 pm - Bethel, Kotzebue, Barrow, Nome, Delta Junction, Offnets + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 26 Thursday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM += HB 81 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS = HB 83 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 26 Thursday Senate Finance 532 2:30 PM + Joint w/ Senate Resources Presentations on Natural Gas Fiscal Designs by Dr. David Wood and Dan Dickinson, CPA + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 27 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + SB 1 ALASKA MINIMUM WAGE += SB 24 LOUIS MILLER BRIDGE += SB 25 RICHARD DEWEY DUVALL FERRY TERMINAL + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES Mar 20 Friday Butrovich 205 1:15 PM + Foster Care Legislative Summit + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0611 HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES (continued) Mar 23 Monday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + Joint w/ Senate Judiciary Presentation: Alaska Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Detective Sgt. Ron Tidler, Anchorage Police Department -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Mar 25 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + SB 101 STUDENT QUESTIONNAIRES AND SURVEYS + SB 139 INCENTIVES FOR CERTAIN MEDICAL PROVIDERS Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled += SB 12 LIMIT OVERTIME FOR REGISTERED NURSES Mar 27 Friday Butrovich 205 1:15 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled += SB 27 FOSTER CARE AGE LIMIT/TUITION WAIVER += SB 133 ELECTRONIC HEALTH INFO EXCHANGE SYSTEM ---------------------------------------- JUDICIARY Mar 20 Friday Beltz 211 1:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- += SB 85 ALCOHOL: LOCAL OPTION/LICENSING/MINORS += SB 110 PRESERVATION OF EVIDENCE + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 23 Monday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + Joint w/ Senate Health & Social Services Presentation: Alaska Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Detective Sgt. Ron Tidler, Anchorage Police Department -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Mar 25 Wednesday Beltz 211 1:30 PM + Presentation: UAA Research on Violence Against Women Dr. Andre B. Rosay -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0612 JUDICIARY (continued) Mar 27 Friday Beltz 211 1:30 PM + SB 47 STATUTE OF LIMITATION FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES + SB 102 RAISE COMP. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AGE/TRUANCY + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- LABOR & COMMERCE Mar 24 Tuesday Capitol 120 8:00 AM -- Please Note Time & Location Change -- + Joint w/ (H) Labor and Commerce Overview: Regulatory Commission of Alaska <Teleconference Listen Only> Mar 24 Tuesday Beltz 211 1:30 PM += SB 86 PAID SICK LEAVE += SB 14 EXTEND MOTOR FUEL TAX SUSPENSION + SB 60 UNIFORM PROBATE CODE; TRUSTS, WILLS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 26 Thursday Beltz 211 1:30 PM + Confirmation of Governor's Appointments + SB 42 NURSING MOTHERS IN WORKPLACE + SB 142 TRANSFER RAILROAD LAND TO DOTPF:FAIRBANKS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- RESOURCES Mar 20 Friday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled + SB 108 STAMPEDE STATE RECREATION AREA + HCR 2 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE + HCR 3 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE + HCR 4 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE + HCR 5 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0613 RESOURCES (continued) Mar 23 Monday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + Overview: Oil and Gas Development in Federal Waters Off Alaska's Coast Presenters: John Goll, Alaska Regional Dir., U.S. Minerals Management Service Cam Toohey, External Affairs,Shell Alaska Edward Itta, Mayor, North Slope Borough Layla Hughes, World Wildlife Fund + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled <Meeting Will Run to 5:30> Mar 25 Wednesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + SJR 16 OFFSHORE OIL & GAS REVENUE + Overview: Status of North Slope Pipelines & Other Facilities Presenters: Dennis Hinnah, Alaska Coord., U.S. Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Allison Iversen, Coordinator, Petroleum Systems Integrity Office Larry Dietrick, Dir., Division of Spill Prevention & Response, DEC + Overview: Effect of Shale Gas Development on Prospects for an Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Presenter: Mark Meyers, State AGIA Coord. + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled <Meeting Will Run to 5:30> Mar 26 Thursday Senate Finance 532 2:30 PM + Joint w/ Senate Finance Presentations on Natural Gas Fiscal Designs by Dr. David Wood and Dan Dickinson, CPA Mar 27 Friday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM += SB 108 STAMPEDE STATE RECREATION AREA + SJR 13 URGING US TO RATIFY LAW OF THE SEA TREATY += HCR 2 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE += HCR 3 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE += HCR 4 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE += HCR 5 IN-STATE GAS PIPELINE + SB 71 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY FOR PUBLIC WORKS + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled <Meeting Will Run to 5:30> ---------------------------------------- 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0614 STATE AFFAIRS Mar 24 Tuesday Beltz 211 9:00 AM + SB 126 REEMPLOYMENT OF RETIREES; EXEMPT SERVICE + SB 129 RESIDENTIAL SPRINKLER SYSTEMS HJR 19 OIL TANKER ESCORT VESSELS/OIL SPILL ANNIV Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled = SB 23 REPEAL DEFINED CONTRIB RETIREMENT PLANS Mar 26 Thursday Beltz 211 9:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- TRANSPORTATION Mar 24 Tuesday Butrovich 205 1:00 PM + SB 148 LIABILITY FOR TRIBAL ROAD CONSTRUCTION Mar 26 Thursday Butrovich 205 1:00 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEES COMMERCE, COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEV Mar 23 Monday Beltz 211 12:00 PM FY10 Budget Close-out ---------------------------------------- GOVERNOR Mar 20 Friday Senate Finance 532 3:00 PM Close-out ---------------------------------------- LEGISLATURE Mar 20 Friday Senate Finance 532 3:30 PM Close-out ---------------------------------------- 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0615 FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEES (continued) NATURAL RESOURCES Mar 23 Monday Beltz 211 1:15 PM Budget Close-out ---------------------------------------- TRANSPORTATION & PUBLIC FACILITIES Mar 20 Friday Senate Finance 532 8:00 AM Subcommittee Close-out ---------------------------------------- SPECIAL COMMITTEES ENERGY Mar 20 Friday Butrovich 205 11:00 AM -- MEETING CANCELED -- + Presentations: - George Cannelos, Federal Co-Chair, Denali Commission - TBD, Defense Energy Support Center: Alaska Fischer-Tropsch Synthetic Fuels Pilot Program <Postponed - TBD Presentation> + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 24 Tuesday Barnes 124 3:00 PM + Joint w/ (H) Energy Overview: The Alaska Coal Industry Steve Denton, Usibelli Coal Mines, Inc Mar 26 Thursday Butrovich 205 11:00 AM + SB 150 EMERGING ENERGY TECHNOLOGY FUND += SB 135 ALASKA NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY += SB 136 IN-STATE PIPELINES: LEASES; CERTIFICATION + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Mar 27 Friday Butrovich 205 11:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0616 SPECIAL COMMITTEES (continued) WORLD TRADE, TECH, INNOVATIONS Mar 24 Tuesday Fahrenkamp 203 2:00 PM + Overview: Making the 2010 Olympics a Regional Success - Regional Tourism Initiative - Pavilion Opportunities Presenter: Ian Burkheimer, Program Manager, 2010 Tourism, Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) ---------------------------------------- OTHER MEETINGS CHILDREN'S CAUCUS Mar 24 Tuesday Butrovich 205 12:00 PM Joint w/ Legislative Health Caucus + Topic: SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) in Alaska Mar 31 Tuesday Butrovich 205 12:00 PM + Topic: Exposure to Violence and a Child's Developing Brain ---------------------------------------- JOINT LEGISLATIVE HEALTH CAUCUS Mar 27 Friday Location Tba 12:00 PM -- Meeting Postponed -- Week of the Uninsured Apr 03 Friday Capitol 106 1:00 PM Galena School Energy Conference: Rural Student and Community Leaders on the Connection between Health and Energy May 13 Wednesday Anch Lio Conf Rm 12:30 PM Week of the Uninsured ---------------------------------------- 2009-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0617 JOINT SESSION Apr 07 Tuesday House Chamber 11:00 AM Annual Address by the Honorable Mark Begich, U.S. Senator