2011-01-19                     Senate Journal                      Page 0045
          "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.                                                                  
                                                                                                                                
In accordance with AS 37.14.003(b), a report of the differences                                                                 
between the Governor's proposed budget and the recommendations of                                                               
the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority was transmitted.                                                                       
                                                                                                                                
Governor's transmittal letter dated January 14:                                                                                 
                                                                                                                                
Dear President Stevens:                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                                
Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska                                                                   
Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's                                                                  
comprehensive mental health program for Fiscal Year 2012 (FY                                                                    
2012). As required by statute, it includes both operating and capital                                                           
appropriations and is accompanied by a report outlining the                                                                     
differences between the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health                                                             
Trust Authority and my proposed budget.                                                                                         
                                                                                                                                
My budget proposal for FY 2012 continues to focus on fostering jobs                                                             
and economic development.  The framework for the budget is based                                                                
on our constitutional responsibilities for spending - education, public                                                         
safety, transportation, and responsible resource development.                                                                   
                                                                                                                                
I am proposing a balanced budget that maintains budget discipline by                                                            
limiting the growth of State agency budgets, funding statutorily                                                                
required programs and services, and making strategic investments to                                                             
promote responsible, sustainable development. With budget discipline,                                                           
targeted spending, and managing our savings, Alaska's cash reserves                                                             
and excellent bond rating will provide us with economic opportunities                                                           
for years to come.                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                                
The proposed mental health budget represents a cooperative effort                                                               
between State agencies and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority.                                                            
These productive working relationships have made and will continue                                                              
to make a positive difference for Alaska's mental health beneficiaries.