Legislature(2017 - 2018)
2018-01-16 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1731 SENATE JOURNAL ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE SECOND SESSION Juneau, Alaska Tuesday January 16, 2018 First Day Pursuant to adjournment the Senate was called to order by President Kelly at 1:06 p.m. The roll showed eighteen members present. Senator Hughes was absent. The seat from District E was vacant. Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent Senator Hughes be excused from a call of the Senate from January 16 through January 19. Without objection, Senator Hughes was excused. The prayer was offered by the Chaplain, Reverend Nancy Campbell, White Fields Church. Senator Hoffman moved and asked unanimous consent that the prayer be spread. Without objection, it was so ordered. Dear Heavenly Father, Great are You, Lord and greatly to be praised! You, Lord, are gracious and full of compassion; slow to anger and great in mercy. You are good to all and Your tender mercies are over all Your works. (Psalms 145) My eyes are on You, Lord and I look to You this day to rain Your blessings down from heaven on this Senate. New beginnings as they open this legislative session and strategy for the days ahead. I pray you keep them healthy. You are Jehovah Rophe, the God who heals. I proclaim health here now! Surround this place with your angels and be ever watchful over the 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1732 Senators and their families as they serve our state. Be their shield. Be their rearguard. Keep them safe. Bless them now, I pray in Jesus' name, Amen. Senator MacKinnon led the Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance. Certification Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent that the journals for the nineteenth through thirtieth legislative days of the Fourth Special Session, the Final Supplement for the Fourth Special Session and Senate Journal Supplement No. 8 be approved as certified by the Secretary. Without objection, it was so ordered. President Kelly appointed Senator Gardner and Senator Stedman to inform the House that the Senate is ready to do business. President Kelly appointed Senator Wilson and Senator Begich to inform the Governor that the Senate is ready to do business. Messages from the Governor Letter dated December 12, 2017 was read stating in accordance with Article III, Section 13 of the Alaska Constitution and AS 44.19.040, I submit the following name for legislative confirmation of appointment to the position noted: Lieutenant Governor Successor Valerie Davidson The appointment was referred to the State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. Letter dated December 20, 2017 was received stating under the provision of Article III, Section 18 of the Alaska Constitution, I hereby request the opportunity to address a joint session of the Thirtieth Alaska State Legislature on Thursday, January 18, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. for presentation of the State of the State Address. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1733 Messages from the House Message dated January 3 was read stating: The Senate is invited to meet with the House for the purpose of a Joint Session on Thursday, January 18, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. for Governor Walker's presentation of the State of the State Address. Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent the Senate accept the House invitation to meet in Joint Session. Without objection, it was so ordered. The Secretary was requested to notify the House. Communications The following reports are on file in the Office of the Secretary of the Senate: Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development Interior Energy Project Quarterly Report to the Alaska State Legislature January 5, 2018 in accordance with Chapter 39, SLA 2015 HB 57 Regulatory Commission of Alaska Legislative Report: Alaska's Current and Future Broadband Coverage December 1, 2017 in accordance with Chapter 1, SSSLA 2017 Alaska Railroad Corporation 2018 Report to the State Five Year Capital Plan December 2017 in accordance with AS 42.40.290 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1734 Alaska Gasline Development Corporation Semi-Monthly Reports November 30, 2017 December 15, 2017 December 29, 2017 January 15, 2018 in accordance with Chapter 14, SLA 2014 Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Alaska Sustainable Energy Act Annual Report 2017 Progress Report January 2018 in accordance with AS 44.42.067 Alaska Housing Finance Corporation Notification of Availability for 2017 Annual Report in accordance with AS 18.56.200 Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority 2017 Annual Report and FY17 Financial Statement in accordance with AS 44.88.210 Office of the Governor Office of Management & Budget Executive Branch Lease Purchase Agreements Report Fiscal Year 2017 in accordance with AS 37.07.040 Department of Health and Social Services: Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Registration and Review Report Fiscal Year 2017 in accordance with AS 47.80.130 Medicaid Management Information System (AK MMIS) Update - December, 2017 in accordance with AS 47.07.076 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1735 The following message dated January 8 was received, stating: Dear Senator Kelly: I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from the State Senate, effective January 15, 2018. It has been an honor and privilege to represent the people of Senate District E. I've welcomed this opportunity to be an advocate for their values, and I am proud of what we've been able to accomplish during my five years of service in the Legislature. I am also grateful for the opportunity to have worked with you and other members of the Senate Majority to advance policies that will benefit Alaska. I recognize that we had significant differences on issues related to the state budget and the Permanent Fund dividend, but I'm convinced that the decisions I made were in accord with the will of my constituents and the best interests of all Alaskans. Regardless of these differences, I believe we agree on far more issues than we differ. I look back with pride on the successful endeavors of the Senate Majority to promote resource development, oppose a statewide income tax, and reform our education system. Although these were substantial achievements, I've concluded that unless we see new leadership in the Governor's office, there is a practical limit to what any individual or caucus in the Legislature can do to alleviate the problems, or to capitalize on the vast potential of our great state. I believe the best way I can advocate for my constituents' values and livelihoods is to devote 100 percent of my time to the cause of ensuring that Alaska elects a new Governor. I communicated my decision on January 6 to the Alaska Republican Party leadership in Districts 9 and 10. I am confident they will select an excellent list of nominees who may be considered to fill out the short remainder of my Senate term. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1736 In closing, I want to thank you for your leadership as Senate President. You helped the Senate navigate through several incredibly complex issues during a difficult period in Alaska's history. I hope there will be many opportunities for us to collaborate again in the future. Sincerely, /s/ Michael J. Dunleavy Introduction and Reference of Senate Resolutions SJR 9 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 9 BY SENATOR STEDMAN, Proposing amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to the Alaska permanent fund and to appropriations from the Alaska permanent fund. (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs, Judiciary and Finance Committees. SJR 10 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 10 BY SENATOR BEGICH, Proposing amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to the Alaska permanent fund. (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs, Judiciary and Finance Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1737 SJR 11 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 11 BY SENATOR BEGICH, Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to marriage. (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs, Judiciary and Finance Committees. Introduction and Reference of Senate Bills SB 123 SENATE BILL NO. 123 was not introduced. SB 124 SENATE BILL NO. 124 BY SENATOR GIESSEL, entitled: "An Act relating to the duties of physicians and health care practitioners when performing or inducing abortions; providing that a child removed from a pregnant woman's womb alive after an abortion may be surrendered and found to be a child in need of aid; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Judiciary Committees. SB 125 SENATE BILL NO. 125 BY SENATOR KELLY, entitled: "An Act relating to the financing and issuance of bonds for a liquefied natural gas production system and natural gas distribution system; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1738 SB 126 SENATE BILL NO. 126 BY SENATOR MACKINNON, entitled: "An Act providing for an exception to the regulation of the practice of medicine for a physician who provides medical services to an athletic team from another state." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce Committee. SB 127 SENATE BILL NO. 127 BY SENATORS COSTELLO, Hughes, entitled: "An Act relating to criminal law and procedure; relating to controlled substances; relating to victims of criminal offenses; relating to probation; relating to sentencing; relating to treatment program credit for time spent toward service of a sentence of imprisonment; relating to the Violent Crimes Compensation Board; relating to permanent fund dividends; relating to electronic monitoring; relating to penalties for violating municipal ordinances; relating to parole; relating to community work service; relating to revocation, termination, suspension, cancellation, or restoration of a driver's license; relating to the duties of the commissioner of corrections; relating to the duties of the Department of Health and Social Services; relating to civil in rem forfeiture actions; providing for an effective date by repealing sec. 193, ch. 36, SLA 2016, sec. 79, ch. 1, 4SSLA 2017, sec. 81, ch. 1, 4SSLA 2017, and sec. 83, ch. 1, 4SSLA 2017; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1739 SB 128 SENATE BILL NO. 128 BY SENATOR GIESSEL, entitled: "An Act establishing the marijuana education and treatment fund; and relating to the duties of the Department of Health and Social Services to administer a comprehensive marijuana use education and treatment program." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Finance Committees. SB 129 SENATE BILL NO. 129 BY SENATOR GIESSEL, entitled: "An Act relating to emergency services and balance billing; relating to the determination by an insurer of a final payment for a covered service or supply; and annulling regulations relating to determination by an insurer of a final payment for a covered service or supply based on geographical areas." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. SB 130 SENATE BILL NO. 130 BY SENATOR MEYER, entitled: "An Act relating to a vote of the people before a broad-based individual income tax or statewide sales tax takes effect." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1740 SB 131 SENATE BILL NO. 131 BY SENATOR STEVENS, entitled: "An Act relating to a separate appropriation bill for operating expenses for public education and establishing a date by which the bill must be passed by the legislature and transmitted to the governor each year; relating to the budget responsibilities of the governor; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 132 SENATE BILL NO. 132 BY SENATOR COSTELLO, entitled: "An Act renaming a portion of the Alaska Safe Children's Act as Bree's Law; relating to Bree's Law programs and Bree's Law activities; relating to dating violence and abuse policy, training, awareness, prevention, and notices; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 133 SENATE BILL NO. 133 BY SENATOR GARDNER, entitled: "An Act relating to the minimum age of eligibility for marriage." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1741 SB 134 SENATE BILL NO. 134 BY SENATOR GARDNER, entitled: "An Act relating to the appointment of guardians ad litem; relating to petitions and proceedings for termination of parental rights; and amending Rules 1 and 6, Alaska Adoption Rules." (Prefile released January 8, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Judiciary Committees. SB 135 SENATE BILL NO. 135 BY SENATOR MICCICHE, entitled: "An Act relating to the powers of the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission; requiring certain set net fishers to vote on the question of whether their entry permits shall be subject to a state buy-back program; establishing a buy-back program for certain set net entry permits; providing for the termination of set net site leases held by individuals who participate in the entry permit buy-back program; providing for a condition on future leases of certain state land; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released January 12, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. SB 136 SENATE BILL NO. 136 BY SENATOR MACKINNON, entitled: "An Act relating to bail; relating to restitution; relating to forfeitures of undertakings; and amending Rule 41, Alaska Rules of Criminal Procedure." (Prefile released January 12, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1742 SB 137 SENATE BILL NO. 137 was not introduced. SB 138 SENATE BILL NO. 138 BY SENATOR MICCICHE, entitled: "An Act relating to per diem allowances for legislators during regular or special legislative sessions." (Prefile released January 12, 2018) was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. SB 139 SENATE BILL NO. 139 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act imposing a tax on net earnings from self- employment and wages; relating to the administration and enforcement of the net earnings from self- employment and wages tax; establishing the Alaska economic recovery tax account; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce, State Affairs and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Administration Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Revenue Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Kelly: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, Constitution of the State of Alaska, I am transmitting a bill relating to taxation of wages and net earnings from self-employment in the state. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1743 This bill would impose a tax on net earnings from self-employment and wages of 1.5 percent for a taxable year. The tax would be capped in a taxable year at the greater of $2,200 as adjusted for inflation, or two times the amount of the permanent fund dividend distributed to eligible recipients in the previous calendar year. This bill provides direction on the type of earnings that qualify as net earnings from a source in the state. Further, wages from a source in the state would include wages that are earned while an individual is physically present in the state. Employers would be required to make and pay to the Department of Revenue withholdings in a manner to approximate the amount of the tax. Through regulation, the Department of Revenue would be authorized to allow withholding to stop when the statutory cap is reached. This protects persons working at multiple jobs, as well as high wage earners. This bill also provides provisions for payment of taxes, determination of a taxable year, refund of overpayments, reporting of payments to self-employed individuals, and other provisions for efficient administration of the tax. The bill would establish an Alaska economic recovery tax account in the general fund so that tax revenues received can be accounted for in the tax receipts account; this is in addition to amounts the legislature may wish to appropriate to the account. The bill provides that the legislature may appropriate to capital projects from the economic recovery tax account; the tax account is not a dedicated fund, but a way to better track tax receipts and spending on capital projects. The tax would be in effect from January 1, 2019, to July 1, 2021. This short period would allow time for the state to receive revenues sufficient to meet critical state needs and avoid falling further into debt and facility disrepair. I will continue to work with you to develop a stable fiscal plan to carry us into the future. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1744 This tax is a simple and efficient measure to address our state's budget shortfall. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor SB 140 SENATE BILL NO. 140 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making appropriations, including capital appropriations, and other appropriations; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Kelly: I am transmitting a bill entitled the Alaska Economic Recovery Act. The Act includes $386 million in fiscal year (FY) 2019 capital appropriations, of which $98 million will be supported by federal funds, and $280 million with unrestricted general funds. The Act will put Alaskans to work, address the State's and communities' growing deferred maintenance liability, and provide confidence to Alaska businesses and investors. The Act focuses on the maintenance needs of schools, the university, and State facilities. It also provides for critical infrastructure upgrades and community and housing support. These much-needed investments in Alaska's economy will be supported through a limited payroll tax proposed in a separate bill. The Walker Administration looks forward to working with the Legislature to pass this bill and put Alaskans to work. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1745 Thank you for your consideration of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor SB 141 SENATE BILL NO. 141 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to a biennial budget; relating to the salary and per diem of members of the legislature and the governor; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Office of the Governor Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Kelly: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to a biennial budget, and to the salary and per diem of members of the legislature and the governor. First, this legislation would require the Legislature pass a budget by the deadline set by the Alaska public in 2006-the 90th day of a session. The consequence for not doing so: beginning on day 91 of the legislative session, legislators would forfeit per diem and their salaries would be withheld until a budget is passed. Second, the Governor's salary would be withheld for as long as he or she is late in submitting the budget bill to the Legislature and the public after the December 15 statutory deadline. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1746 Finishing budget work on time is critical. Delays in passage of the Alaska budget have significant public consequences. For example, issuance of motor vehicle licenses and public assistance payments may be delayed. School districts are faced with funding uncertainty and are forced to send pink slips to teachers and staff. State agencies are required under the provisions of collective bargaining agreements to submit layoff notices to each public employee in anticipation of a government shutdown. The Alaska Marine Highway System can't publish the ferry schedules in a timely fashion. Economic consequences include uncertainty over time-sensitive fisheries openings, potential delays in issuance of resource development permits, and the list goes on and on. This legislation would incentivize the Alaska Legislature and Governor to finish their budget work on time yielding significant benefits including ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of service to the Alaska public, more certainty for school districts, and improved state and local employee morale. This legislation also proposes converting Alaska's budget process from annual to biennial. The Governor would be required to introduce an operating, capital and mental health budget in the first session of each two-year legislature that provides funding for the coming two fiscal years. The Legislature would pass a two-year budget by day 90 of the first session. During its second session, the Legislature would be able to focus on policy bills with far less time devoted to supplemental spending and budget amendments. The benefits of a responsible biennial budget would be significant, including more efficient use of the Legislature's time by avoiding long, drawn-out budget battles every session, avoiding the temptation to use the budget as a bargaining chip, providing fiscal stability by reducing uncertainty about longer term funding levels, improving employee morale by avoiding pink slips, allowing longer-range fiscal planning for state and local government, and shifting agency and legislative staff time from budget preparation to financial management, program results and policy development and implementation. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1747 While Alaska will face challenges without a sound and comprehensive fiscal plan, biennial budgeting would lay the groundwork for a longer- term view on spending and help us focus on a fiscal plan that provides stable, predictable revenues. At the federal level, congressional leaders, including Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI), have proposed moving the federal budget from annual to biennial; they assert that this would lead to more reasoned deliberation and would allow for increased congressional oversight. In summary, the combined changes proposed in this legislation would have significant public benefits and would allow the Governor and the Legislature to complete their work on time and effectively in the interest of all Alaskans. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor SB 142 SENATE BILL NO. 142 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making appropriations, including capital appropriations, supplemental appropriations, reappropriations, and other appropriations; making appropriations to capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Kelly: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's capital budget for Fiscal Year 2019 (FY 2019). 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1748 The proposed capital bill totals $1.3 billion, of which $1.0 billion will be supported by federal funds and $150.1 million with unrestricted general funds, with the remaining amount from designated general funds and other funds. The budget prioritizes annual federal match programs, housing, energy, maintenance, and information technology investment. This minimal capital budget will be the norm until a comprehensive fiscal plan is adopted. The largest component of the capital budget is the State's transportation program, totaling $909.7 million, which is largely federally funded. Earnings on the Power Cost Equalization Fund provide resources for renewable energy projects. Key information technology upgrades include retirement and benefits, and the State's primary enterprise information system. Health and social services eligibility systems are included, supported primarily by federal and other funding sources. The Walker Administration looks forward to working with the Legislature to finalize a FY 2019 capital budget. Thank you for your consideration of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor SB 143 SENATE BILL NO. 143 BY THE SENATE 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. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1749 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 15: Dear President Kelly: 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 2019 (FY 2019). As required by statute, it includes both operating and capital appropriations. Also as required, the enclosed report outlines the differences between the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and my proposed budget. The total FY 2019 mental health budget of $231.9 million represents a $13.8 million increase from FY 2018. The FY 2019 budget includes $16.9 million of the Trust's $17.5 million operating budget recommendations and $12.4 million of the Trust's $14.8 million capital budget recommendations. These amounts are in addition to $201.8 million of annual base funding. The mental health operating budget reflects changes to the Medicaid program, and salary and health benefit adjustments. Reports comparing Trust recommendations to those included in the FY2019 Governor's operating and capital mental health budgets are available at: https://www.omb.alaska.gov/ombfiles/19_budget/PDFs/FY2019_MH_ Reports.pdf The State's fiscal situation requires all areas of government to maximize efficiencies. The Trust's encouragement and support of Medicaid and criminal justice reform have had a positive impact on the state. Moving forward, a comprehensive fiscal plan that addresses State revenue will help ensure the sustainability of programs that support Alaska's mental health beneficiaries. We look forward to working with the Legislature to finalize the FY 2019 budget bills and address revenue solutions. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1750 Thank you for your consideration of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor SB 144 SENATE BILL NO. 144 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs; capitalizing funds; amending appropriations; making supplemental appropriations; making appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from the constitutional budget reserve fund; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Kelly: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's operating budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019. The Walker Administration's FY 2019 operating budget, capital budget, and related legislation are designed to fix broken processes, invest in our future, and put Alaska on a path to stability and prosperity. Our proposed operating budget is up less than one percent compared to FY 2018. It does not include cost-of-living wage increases, and continues to reduce the government workforce. The budget includes $50 million in specific cost saving and efficiency measures which offset some inflation growth and reduces the real size of government. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1751 This year's transparent agency operating budget is $4.0 billion. This represents an increase of $22.5 million from FY 2018 and a decrease of $475.4 million from FY 2015. The budget maintains key services such as public safety, education, and support to local communities. It maximizes federal funding opportunities to support Alaskans and the Alaska economy. The budget includes revenue language consistent with the legislation passed in both chambers to provide funding from the earnings reserve to the general fund. It also provides for a Permanent Fund Dividend estimated to be $1,216 per person. While we stand ready to assist the Legislature in adopting a broad-based tax to completely close the fiscal gap, this budget requires continued withdrawals from reserves and aggressive containment of upward cost pressures. My administration looks forward to working with the Legislature on the FY 2019 budget and related revenue measures to provide a long term balanced budget. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor Consideration of the Calendar Citations Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent the following citations be made a special order of business. Without objection, it was so ordered. Special Order of Business Honoring - Big Dipper Ice Arena 50th Anniversary Representative(s) Kawasaki, Thompson Senator(s) Kelly, Begich, Bishop, Coghill, Costello, Egan, Gardner, Giessel, Hoffman, Hughes, MacKinnon, Meyer, Micciche, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, von Imhof, Wielechowski 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1752 In Memoriam - Mary Pat Brudie Representative(s) Claman, Tarr Senator(s) Kelly, Begich, Bishop, Coghill, Costello, Egan, Gardner, Giessel, Hoffman, Hughes, MacKinnon, Meyer, Micciche, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, von Imhof, Wielechowski, Wilson Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent the citations be adopted. Without objection, the citations were adopted and referred to the Secretary for transmittal. Unfinished Business SB 132 Senator Begich moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE BILL NO. 132 "An Act renaming a portion of the Alaska Safe Children's Act as Bree's Law; relating to Bree's Law programs and Bree's Law activities; relating to dating violence and abuse policy, training, awareness, prevention, and notices; and providing for an effective date." Without objection, it was so ordered. SB 133 Senator Begich moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE BILL NO. 133 "An Act relating to the minimum age of eligibility for marriage." Without objection, it was so ordered. SB 134 Senator Begich moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE BILL NO. 134 "An Act relating to the appointment of guardians ad litem; relating to petitions and proceedings for termination of parental rights; and amending Rules 1 and 6, Alaska Adoption Rules." Without objection, it was so ordered. SJR 9 Senator Begich moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 9 Proposing amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to the Alaska permanent fund and to appropriations from the Alaska permanent fund. Without objection, it was so ordered. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1753 Senator Stedman moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from plane time, January 19 through January 25; from May 10 through May 15; and from plane time, July 1 through July 14. Without objection, Senator Stedman was excused. Representative Kawasaki and Representative Johnson called on the Senate to inform the body that the House was organized and ready to do business. Introduction of Floor Staff Senator Meyer, Rules Committee Chair, introduced the 2018 Chamber Staff as follows: Sergeant at Arms Grace Ellsworth, Juneau Assistant Sergeant at Arms Gordon Krueger, Wasilla Senate Pages Kayla Von Bergen, Wasilla Elizabeth Bechtol, Anchorage Sydney Krebsbach, Juneau David Cordero, Palmer Samuel Mielke, Big Lake Walter Scott Campbell, Palmer Announcements Announcements are at the end of the journal. Adjournment Senator Micciche moved and asked unanimous consent the Senate stand in adjournment until 11:00 a.m., January 18, 2018. Without objection, the Senate adjourned at 2:01 p.m. Liz Clark Secretary of the Senate 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1754 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 Jan 16 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 18 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- EDUCATION Jan 17 Wednesday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + SB 131 EDUCATION FUNDING + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Jan 19 Friday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- FINANCE Jan 16 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 17 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Presentation: Overview FY19 Operating Budget Pat Pitney, Dir., Office of Management and Budget Jan 18 Thursday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Presentation: Overview FY19 Operating Budget David Teal, Director, Legislative Finance Div. 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1755 FINANCE (continued) Jan 19 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Joint with the Senate Resources Committee Overview of Regulations for House Bill 111 Department of Revenue Tax Division ---------------------------------------- HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES Jan 17 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 19 Friday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- JUDICIARY Jan 17 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 19 Friday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- LABOR & COMMERCE Jan 16 Tuesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM -- Delayed to Immediately Following Session -- + How Can We Create More Jobs? Dept. of Labor & Workforce Development Presentation: Alaska Employment Forecast for 2018 Paloma Harbour, Administrative Services Director Panel Discussion: Mouhcine Guettabi, PhD, Institute of Social and Economic Research Robert Venables, Southeast Conference Nolan Klouda, Certified Economic Developer from Center for Economic Development Brian Holst, Juneau Economic Development Council Doug Ward, Vigor Alaska -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1756 LABOR & COMMERCE (continued) Jan 18 Thursday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + How Can We Boost Alaska's Economy? Dept. of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Presentation: Northern Opportunity Strategy - Commissioner Mike Navarre - Britteny Cioni-Haywood, Director, Division of Economic Development Curtis Thayer, Alaska Chamber Kara Moriarty, Alaska Oil & Gas Association Jillian Simpson & Julie Jessen, Alaska Travel Industry Association John Springsteen, Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Jan 23 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM + How Are Alaskans Innovating? Dept. of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development - Division of Insurance Health Insurance Innovation Waiver Update - Lori Wing Heier, Division of Insurance Director -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Jan 25 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM + How Do We Best Train Alaskans For Jobs? Dept. of Labor & Workforce Development Presentation: Alaska Technical Vocational Education Program (TVEP) Update Greg Cashen, Deputy Commissioner Paloma Harbour, Administrative Services Director Allison Biastock, Alaska Workforce Investment Board Director -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- RESOURCES Jan 17 Wednesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1757 RESOURCES (continued) Jan 19 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Joint with the Senate Finance Committee Overview of Regulations for House Bill 111 (Ch 3, SSLA 17): - Department of Revenue Tax Division -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Jan 19 Friday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + Overview: State of Alaska Mining Claims and Filing Process - Department of Natural Resources Division of Mining, Land, and Water -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- <Above Item Removed from Agenda> + Overview: Forestry Development, Opportunities, and Restrictions - Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- STATE AFFAIRS Jan 16 Tuesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 18 Thursday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- TRANSPORTATION Jan 16 Tuesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 18 Thursday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- 2018-01-16 Senate Journal Page 1758 JOINT COMMITTEES LEGISLATIVE WORKING GROUP ON OIL & GAS Jan 18 Thursday Senate Finance 532 3:30 PM + Scoping Meeting Schedule for 2018 Advisory Group: Overview of Advisory Group Membership, Capacity Scoping for Advisory Group Meeting Schedule Topics