Legislature(1993 - 1994)
03/27/1993 01:00 PM House FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
March 27, 1993
1:00 p.m.
TAPE HFC 93-71, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93-72, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93-72, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93-73, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93-74, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93-74, Side 2, #000 - 240.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Larson called the House Finance Committee to order
at 1:00 p.m.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Larson Representative Hoffman
Co-Chair MacLean Representative Martin
Vice-Chair Hanley Representative Navarre
Representative Brown Representative Parnell
Representative Foster Representative Therriault
Representative Grussendorf
ALSO PRESENT
Representative G. Phillips; Representative Brice;
Representative Nicholia; Representative Mackie;
Representative Finklestein; Representative Davis; Mike
Greany, Director, Legislative Finance Division; Cheryl
Frasca, Director, Division of Budget Review, Office of
Management and Budget; Mike Maher, Deputy Commissioner,
Department of Education; Stan Ridgeway, Deputy Director,
Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Education; Gary
Bader, Director, Administrative Services, Department of
Education; Duane Guiley, Finance Director Department of
Education; Allan Barnes, Executive Director, Postsecondary
Education Commission; Ron Lind, Director, Plans, Programs
and Budget, Headquarters, Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities; W. Keith Gerken, Deputy Commissioner,
Operations, Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities; Janice Adair, Assistant Commissioner, Department
of Environmental Conservation;
SUMMARY INFORMATION
HB 55 "An Act making appropriations for the operating
and loan program expenses of state government and
to capitalize funds; and providing for an
effective date."
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HB 55 was HELD in Committee.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - AMENDMENTS
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's amendment for
the Department of Education, COMPONENT 1627, eliminate
Aleutian Region as single site school (copy on file). There
being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's amendment for
the Department of Education, component 157, fully fund PCN
7717 for 12 months (copy on file).
GARY BADER, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION explained that the PCN was shown at
less than 12 months due to an error.
There being NO OBJECTION, the Governor's amendment for the
Department of Education, component 157 was adopted.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's amendment for
the Department of Education, component 210, technical;
correction on expenditure line (copy on file). There being
NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-1, $32.5
thousand general fund dollars for interpreter referral
services for deaf clients (copy on file). He explained that
the Department of Education had proposed this amount for
reduction in the hopes that a fee-for-service arrangement
could be developed. Fees cannot be established and
collected by the local service agencies in the upcoming
fiscal year.
STAN RIDGEWAY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, VOCATIONAL EDUCATION,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION explained that services fees will
come from agencies and organizations that are responsible
for hiring the interpreter. It is a statewide service
provided by a private organization. Interpreters are paid
between $35 and $15 dollars an hour.
There being NO OBJECTION, AMENDMENT DOE-1 was adopted.
Co-Chair MacLean MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-2 (copy on
file). Representative Navarre OBJECTED. Co-Chair MacLean
explained that the amendment would increase funding for the
Rural School Vocational Education Program, Alaska State
Library, Alaska State Museums and Kotzebue Technical Center.
Funding for the Alaska State Council on the Arts and the
Alaska Vocational Technical Center would be reduced.
Representative Martin MOVED to AMEND the amendment to delete
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the $6.3 thousand dollar increased funding for the Alaska
State Museum and add $6.3 thousand dollars to the Alaska
Vocational Technical Center. A roll call vote was taken on
the motion to amend.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault
OPPOSED: Foster, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Larson,
MacLean
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Co-Chair MacLean MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-2. A roll
call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Foster, Grussendorf, Hoffman, MacLean, Larson
OPPOSED: Martin, Navarre, Parnell, Therriault, Brown,
Hanley
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Amendment DOE-3 was WITHDRAWN.
Representative Brown provided members with AMENDMENT DOE-4
issued at the request of Representatives Williams, Nicholia,
Mackie and Hudson, Additional District Support K-12,
$1,066,280 million dollars (copy on file).
REPRESENTATIVE JERRY MACKIE stressed that the amendment
would restore funding taken out of CSHB 45 (FIN). Co-Chair
Larson stressed that all of the fifty five school districts
need more funding. He felt that all single site school
districts should be treated equally. Members discussed
options to assure that the remaining single site school
districts are funded.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment DOE-4 was adopted.
Representative Navarre MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-5, to
delete $250.0 thousand dollars in general funds and insert
$275.0 thousand dollars in interagency receipts for American
with Disabilities, Department of Education (copy on file).
He explained that the amendment would return the budget to
the current year appropriation.
Mr. Bader noted that the component had been reduced from
$225.0 thousand dollars to $200.0 thousand dollars. He
stated that the amendment would result in a $50.0 thousand
dollar reduction to the Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation. The Department currently receives $25.0
thousand dollars in program receipts from training seminars
held by the Department.
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CHERYL FRASCA, DIVISION DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND
BUDGET, OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR stressed that the Governor
chose to put the component in the budget and not use
interagency receipts.
Representative Navarre WITHDREW AMENDMENT DOE-5.
Representative Grussendorf MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-6,
$224.0 thousand dollars for preventative maintenance at the
Mt. Edgecumbe High School (copy on file). Mr. Bader stated
that the school did not submit a request for additional
maintenance funding. Co-Chair Larson gave a brief overview
of the Mt. Edgecumbe High School budget. Representative
Martin stressed that all schools should be treated equally.
Co-Chair Larson pointed out that Mt. Edgecumbe has
residential care.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt AMENDMENT
DOE-6.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-7, restore
$28.0 thousand dollars for the Alaska State Council on the
Arts (copy on file). She spoke in support of Amendment DOE-
7.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-72, Side 1)
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt DOE-7.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Therriault
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Navarre,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Brown provided members with AMENDMENT DOE-8,
restore $12.0 thousand dollars to Professional Teaching
Practice Commission (copy on file). The amendment was by
request of Representative Brice.
REPRESENTATIVE TOM BRICE stressed that the Commission would
be hampered if the reduction were not restored. Co-Chair
Larson noted that the funding was originally in the
Commission's budget for use as a RSA to the Department of
Law. He stated that if legal services are needed the
Commission could present a request for program receipts to
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the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee. Mr. Bader
suggested the amendment should be general fund, not general
fund program receipts. He noted that the Governor's budget
included more program receipt authority than what was
realized in FY 93.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt DOE-8.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Foster WITHDREW AMENDMENT DOE-9 (copy on
file).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-10,
restore $37.5 thousand dollars for Library Operations
component. A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-11 (copy
on file). She explained that Amendment DOE-11 would result
in a net zero. Amendment DOE-11 was submitted at the
request of Representative Bettye Davis. Representative
Brown noted that $100.0 thousand dollars would be shifted
from the administration (as an unallocated reduction) to the
Basic Education and Instructional Improvement component.
REPRESENTATIVE BETTYE DAVIS observed that the Comprehensive
School Counseling Program had been previously supported by
Carl Perkins Federal Vocational Eduction funds. She noted
that the program is not currently being funded. Carl
Perkins funding now goes to the school districts to use at
their discretion. She maintained that the program helps to
raise private funding.
Co-Chair Larson noted that legislation sponsored by
Representative Collins was passed in 1991. He gave a brief
history of the programs funding.
MIKE MAHER, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
stated that the Department would transfer funding through
RSA's to provide funding if the amendment is passed.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DOE-11.
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IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Therriault
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-12,
restore $17.4 thousand dollars, Adult Basic Education grants
(copy on file). She maintained that the reduction would
have a greater impact on rural areas. She asserted that the
reduction could affect federal funds. The program serves
6,046 full time students at $353 dollars per student.
Mr. Bader stressed that there are $558.0 thousand dollars in
federal funds at risk if the program is not maintained at
the prior year's funding level or the per student support
sustained. A roll call vote was taken on the motion to
adopt AMENDMENT DOE-12.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Foster,
Hanley, Parnell, Therriault, MacLean, Larson
OPPOSED: Martin
The MOTION PASSED (10-1).
Co-Chair MacLean MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOE-13, to delete
$355.2 thousand dollars in corporate receipts, Alaska
Postsecondary Education (copy on file). She explained that
the amendment would deny the addition of 7 new full time
positions. She discussed prior expenditures for data
conversion problems and backlog.
ALLAN BARNES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION
COMMISSION explained that there was a net increase of 7,000
loans in repayment during 1992. There have been 8,000 new
loans in repayment added in 1993. He observed that an
additional 8,000 - 9,000 loans are expected for repayment
each year over the next three years. He asserted that the
annual default rate has been reduced from 25 to 7 percent.
He discussed conversion problems.
Co-Chair MacLean WITHDREW AMENDMENTS DOE-13 and DOE-14 (copy
on file).
Co-Chair MacLean MOVED to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE DOE-D: "It
is the intent of the Legislature that the Commission on
Postsecondary Education prepare a plan to privatize student
loan operations and report back to the Legislature by
February 15, 1994." Co-Chair Larson MOVED to AMEND the
intent language, to add "and recommend to the assembly
private institutions to take over operations." There being
NO OBJECTION, intent language DOE-D was amended. There
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being NO OBJECTION, intent language DOE-D was adopted.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE DOE-A (copy
on file). A vote was not taken due to the lack of a quorum.
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE DOE-B
(copy on file). Intent language DOE-B was submitted at the
request of Representative Brice. Representative Brice
explained that the intent language would direct Vocational
Rehabilitation to use $100.0 thousand dollars to fund
project walkback.
STAN RIDGEWAY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION stressed that the intent language
would direct state match money to individuals not currently
eligible for vocational rehabilitation support.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Intent
Language DOE-B.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Navarre, Therriault
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, MacLean, Larson
Representatives Hoffman and Parnell were not present for the
vote.
The MOTION FAILED (4-5).
Co-Chair Larson noted that Intent Language DOE-C was
submitted at the request of Representative Bunde (copy on
file).
(Tape Change, HFC 93-772, Side 2)
The intent language prioritizes funding reductions in the
Postsecondary Education Commission, WICHE program. A roll
call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Intent Language
DOE-C.
IN FAVOR: Martin, Larson
OPPOSED: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Foster,
Hanley, Parnell, Therriault, MacLean
The MOTION FAILED (2-9).
Co-Chair Larson restated his motion to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE
DOE-A. Representative Navarre explained that the intent
language would direct the Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation to review alternatives for shifting services
currently provided by its employees to the private sector.
He observed that the private sector may be able to provide
the service in a more cost effective manner. Representative
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Martin suggested that it would be better if the review was
conducted outside of the Division. There being NO
OBJECTION, Intent Language DOE-A was adopted.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES -
AMENDMENTS
Representative Therriault note his intention to address at a
later date, the Governor's Amendment for the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities, component #547,
participation in the State Emergency Response Commission
(copy on file). The Governor's amendment for component #547
was HELD open.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component #561, consolidation of facilities leasing and
management functions (copy on file). There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component 563, consolidation of facilities leasing and
management functions (copy on file). There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component 833, $1.8 million dollars for Dalton Highway
maintenance (copy on file).
KEITH GERKEN, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, OPERATIONS, DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES explained that the
Department is unable to conduct maintenance of the Dalton
Highway without additional funding.
Representative Parnell OBJECTED to the motion to adopt the
Governor's Amendment for the Department of Transportation
and Public Facilities, component 833, $1,8 million dollars
for Dalton Highway maintenance. Representatives Navarre and
Therriault spoke in support of the amendment. A roll call
vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Foster,
Parnell, Therriault, MacLean
OPPOSED: Martin, Larson
Representative Hanley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION PASSED (2-8).
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
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the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component #591, technical position realignment (copy on
file). There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component #1879, facilities leasing and management
consolidation (copy on file). There being NO OBJECTION, it
was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
component #1880, facilities leasing and management
consolidation (copy on file). There being NO OBJECTION, it
was so ordered.
Representative Foster MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOT-1 (copy
on file). Mr. Gerkin explained that Amendment DOT-1 would
add back $95.4 thousand dollars to Southeast Administration
Services. He added that the reduction was the result of an
error. There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Representative Navarre MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOT-2 (copy
on file). He explained that the amendment would add
maintenance funding for new roads. Mr. Gerkin gave examples
of how the funds would be spent. Representative Navarre
maintained that the deferred backlog will be increased if
funding for new road maintenance is not adopted. A roll
call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Navarre WITHDREW AMENDMENTS DOT-3 and DOT-4
(copy on file).
Representative Hanley MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOT-5 (copy
on file). Amendment DOT-5 was submitted at the request of
Representative Phillips.
REPRESENTATIVE GAIL PHILLIPS explained that Amendment DOT-5
would make a general reduction by component and line item,
including restoration of six reductions proposed by the
Subcommittee, to hold operations and maintenance harmless.
The total reduction would be $298.8 thousand dollars.
Representative Foster OBJECTED to Amendment DOT-5. Members
discussed reductions contained in Amendment DOT-5.
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Mr. Gerkin observed that the amendment would result in less
general funds for administrative activities. He pointed out
that the Department's administrative budget has been cut by
48 percent over the past 10 years. He emphasized that
efficient management of the department would be difficult
without sufficient support. Representative Navarre spoke in
support of the Department.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED that AMENDMENTS DOT-5 to DOT-10 be
HELD in Committee. There being NO OBJECTION, it was so
ordered.
Representative Foster MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DOT-11 (copy
on file). The amendment would remove the transfer of $175.0
thousand dollars for the Alaska Marine Highway System to
Headquarters.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-73, Side 1)
Representative Grussendorf spoke in support of Amendment
DOT-11. Members discussed whether the intent is to withdraw
$175.0 thousand dollars from Headquarters or to add new
general fund dollars. Mr. Gerkin stressed that a further
reduction from Headquarters would result in RSAs from
maintenance.
MIKE GREANY, DIRECTOR, LEGISLATIVE FINANCE DIVISION
explained that the amendment would add $175.0 thousand
general fund dollars to the Alaska Marine Highway System.
Co-Chair Larson reiterated that the amendment would add
$175.0 thousand general fund dollars to the Alaska Marine
Highway System without a decrease in Headquarters. A roll
call vote was taken on the motion to adopt AMENDMENT DOT-11.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Foster, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault, MacLean,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Navarre MOVED to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE DOT-A
(copy on file). Intent Language DOT-A was submitted at the
request of Representative Brice. The intent language
instructs the Department to have two maintenance workers at
maintenance camps on the Dalton Highway. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION-AMENDMENTS
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
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specialist (copy on file). There being NO OBJECTION, it was
so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
section (copy on file).
JANICE ADAIR, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION clarified that the
project was in the Department's operating budget. She noted
that the funding source is 470 funds.
There being NO OBJECTION, component #1814, transfer response
vessel capitalization to the front section was adopted.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
Water and Water Programs (copy on file).
Ms. Adair explained that there was a miscellaneous $400.0
thousand dollar reduction in the Governor's proposed budget
for the Department of Environmental Conservation. The
Governor's amended budget reinstated $200.0 thousand dollars
of the reduction.
There being NO OBJECTION, component #1818, off-set
miscellaneous through reductions in Waste Water and Water
Programs was approved.
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
miscellaneous reduction (copy on file). Representative
Martin OBJECTED. A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Therriault
OPPOSED: Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Larson
The MOTION PASSED (5-4).
Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
miscellaneous reduction. There being NO OBJECTION, it was
so ordered. (copy on file).
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Co-Chair Larson MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
Administration and Pipeline Regional (copy on file).
Representative Martin OBJECTED. The amendment was HELD
open.
Representative Grussendorf MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-1,
$1.2 million dollars for Local Emergency Response Committees
(LEPC) (copy on file). Representative Therriault OBJECTED.
Representative Therriault MOVED to AMEND the amendment, to
delete $1.2 million dollars and insert $200.0 thousand
dollars. Representative Grussendorf spoke in opposition to
the motion to amend Amendment DEC-1. He maintained that
$200.0 would not be enough for the 26 communities trying to
develop and analyses plans for emergency response.
Representative Therriault stated that the Department
indicated that $100.0 thousand dollars would cover travel
costs and minimum costs. He felt that state and municipal
efforts are being duplicated.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to amend Amendment
DEC-1.
IN FAVOR: Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault, Larson
OPPOSED: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
Co-Chair MacLean and Representative Foster were not present
for the vote.
The MOTION PASSED (5-4).
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-1 as amended.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hanley, Hoffman, Navarre,
Parnell, Therriault, Larson
OPPOSED: Martin
The MOTION PASSED (8-1).
Co-Chair MacLean and Representative Foster were not present
for the vote.
Representative Therriault WITHDREW AMENDMENT DEC-2 (copy on
file).
Representative Navarre MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-3,
restore $1,140.0 million dollars for Local Emergency
Planning Committees. Amendment DEC-3 was submitted at the
request of Representative Davies. Representative Navarre
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MOVED to AMEND the amendment to delete $1.14 million dollars
and insert $600.0 thousand dollars. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Representative Brown pointed out that the 470 Fund is the
funding source. She discussed how the 470 Fund operates.
She provided members with back-up material regarding
capitalization of the 470 Fund (Attachment 1).
(Tape Change, HFC 93-73, Side 1)
Co-Chair Larson noted that AMENDMENTS DEC-4 and DEC-5 are
identical (copy on file). AMENDMENTS DEC-4 and DEC-5 were
WITHDRAWN.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHN DAVIES spoke in support of the
amendment. He stressed the need to continue the planning
process. Representative Therriault spoke against the
amendment. Representative Grussendorf noted that the $200.0
thousand dollars adopted in Amendment DEC-2 will only pay
for the travel of state personnel. Representative
Therriault stated the Department indicated that $100.0 would
cover the current 20 LEPC basic operations; including travel
to two meeting annually and office supplies.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-3 as amended.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-6, restore
contaminated site funding (copy on file).
Ms. Adair explained how the Department evaluates
contaminated sites. She observed that the Department
maintains a list of contaminated sites which need to be
addressed. She stated that without additional funding
several sites on the list would not be addressed.
Representative Brown suggested that the Committee authorize
funding for 3.5 PFT and roll forward funding to cover
grants. There is approximately $1.0 million dollars in roll
forward. Co-Chair Larson stressed that a roll forward
should be included as a reappropriation.
Ms. Adair clarified that the 3.5 positions are currently
funded. The House Finance Subcommittee for the Department
of Environmental Conservation proposed elimination of the
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positions. She added that the positions also oversee
responsible party cleanup. She maintained that without the
positions responsible party site cleanup will be reduced.
Representative Therriault suggested that up to $1.0 million
dollars of the roll forward be accepted. Representative
Navarre spoke in support of the amendment. He maintained
that any one of the projects on the Department's list could
cost $800.0 thousand dollars.
Representative Martin spoke against using the roll forward.
Ms. Adair noted that the Department used approximately $2.0
million dollars in FY 93. She anticipates that $2.0 million
dollars will be needed in FY 94.
Representative Therriault suggested that the amendment be
amended to reduce contractual services to $200.0 thousand
dollars and allow the roll forward to lapse into the Fund.
Representative Therriault MOVED to AMEND the amendment to
reduce contractual to $200.0 thousand dollars.
Representative Navarre OBJECTED. He asserted that the
failure to address contaminated site cleanup will result in
greater ground water contamination problems. He pointed out
that contaminated ground water remediation will have a much
greater cost. He maintained that contaminated site cleanup
is one of the most important functions of the state. He
stressed the need to clean up sites before an emergency
exists.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to amend Amendment
DEC-6.
IN FAVOR: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
OPPOSED: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
The MOTION PASSED (7-4).
Representative MartIn spoke against spending 470 funds. A
roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-6 as amended.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Parnell,
Therriault, Hanley, Larson
OPPOSED: Foster, Martin, MacLean
The MOTION PASSED (8-3).
Representative Grussendorf MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-7,
add $100.0 thousand dollars, Palmer laboratory (copy on
file). He explained that the amendment would allow bi-
weekly PSP monitoring of Alaskan crab. Representative
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Therriault noted that the Subcommittee approved $200.0
thousand dollars. Ms. Adair stressed that $300.0 is needed
to adequately monitor PSP levels in crab.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-7.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-8, restore
$81.6 thousand dollars for Facilities Construction and
Operations from the Storage Tank Assistance Fund (copy on
file). Representative Therriault OBJECTED. She explained
that the amendment would support the implementation of
Village Safe Water projects. She discussed other funding
sources.
Representative Therriault stressed that the Facilities
Construction and Operations component did not have a large
reduction by the Subcommittee.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-8.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Brown MOVED to AMEND AMENDMENT DEC-8 to
change the funding source from the Storage Tank Assistance
Fund to the General Fund. She explained that the amendment
would fund the Community Dump Day at $97.2 thousand dollars.
The program allows homeowners to dispose of their household
waste. Co-Chair MacLean OBJECTED to the funding source
change. Representative Brown suggested that the amendment
be changed to the Mitigation Account.
Representative Therriault noted that the Mitigation Account
appropriates money to the Storage Tank Assistance Fund. He
maintained that Mitigation Account funds are general funds.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHN DAVIES spoke in support of funding the
Community Dump Day. He stressed the importance of diverting
hazardous materials from general dump sites.
Representative Therriault asserted that the Community Dump
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Day is a low priority of the Department of Environmental
Conservation.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-74, Side 1)
Ms. Adair maintained that the program is not the
Department's lowest priority. A roll call vote was taken on
the motion to amend Amendment DEC-9.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hoffman, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
Representative Hanley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (3-7).
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-9.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Martin, Parnell, Therriault, Larson
Representative Hanley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (5-5).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-10, to
change the funding source of the Industrial Waste Water
Program from general fund program receipts to the Storage
Tank Assistance Fund (copy on file).
Ms. Adair discussed the regulatory activities covered by the
Industrial Waste Water Program. She maintained that if the
Department cannot certify federal permits EPA may deny the
issuance of permits.
Representative Therriault MOVED to AMEND the amendment to
add $100.0 thousand dollars in general funds and delete
$100.0 thousand dollars in program receipts. Co-Chair
MacLean OBJECTED. A roll call vote was taken on the motion
to amend Amendment DEC-10.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Hanley,
Martin, Parnell, Therriault
OPPOSED: Foster, MacLean, Larson
The MOTION PASSED (8-3).
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-10 as amended.
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IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Parnell,
Therriault
OPPOSED: Hanley, Martin, Foster, MacLean, Larson
The MOTION PASSED (6-5).
Representative Brown WITHDREW AMENDMENTS DEC-11, DEC-12 and
DEC-13 (copies on file).
Representative Foster MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-14,
restore $110.8 thousand dollars to the Spill Prevention
Response BRU from the Storage Tank Assistance Fund.
Representative Therriault spoke in support of the amendment.
Representative Brown OBJECTED. A roll call vote was taken
on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Foster, Parnell,
Therriault, MacLean, Larson
OPPOSED: Hanley, Brown, Martin
The MOTION PASSED (8-3).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-15, add
$186.0 thousand dollars for the Structural Integrity Project
from the Oil and Hazardous Substance Spill Response Fund
(copy on file). She stressed the need to ensure that above
ground tanks are monitored. A roll call vote was taken on
the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Hoffman, Grussendorf, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Brown WITHDREW AMENDMENTS DEC-16 and DEC-17
(copies on file).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-18, shift
$500.0 thousand dollars from the Department of Military and
Veterans Affairs, Emergency Services to the Department of
Environmental Conservation, Nearshore Project.
Representative Therriault spoke in support of the amendment.
Co-Chair MacLean OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Amendment
DEC-18.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre, Foster,
Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault, Larson
OPPOSED: MacLean
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The MOTION PASSED (10-1).
Representative Brown MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-19, $80.0
thousand dollars for Community Dump Day. Amendment DEC-19
was submitted at the request of Representative Davies.
Representative Therriault OBJECTED. A roll call vote was
taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Foster, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault, MacLean,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-20,
(copy on file). Representative Hoffman MOVED to AMEND
Amendment DEC-20, to delete $15.0 thousand dollars for DC
lobbyist. There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered. The
amendment would fund the Facility Construction and
Operations component at contractual audits - $26.0 thousand
dollars, seminars - $10.0 thousand dollars and an
engineering intern - $35.6 thousand dollars. Representative
Therriault spoke in opposition to the amendment. A roll
call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Hoffman, Grussendorf, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Grussendorf MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-21,
add $115.0 to the State Emergency Response Commission.
Representative Therriault OBJECTED. A roll call vote was
taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Representative Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT section 31 of
AMENDMENT DEC-22 (copy on file). He explained that the
amendment would provide $440.0 thousand dollars for
contaminated site cleanup in the Koyukuk School District.
Representative Navarre asked the total cleanup cost.
Representative Hoffman could not answer. Representative
Hoffman WITHDREW AMENDMENT DEC-22.
Representative Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-23,
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$34.5 thousand dollars, Administration (copy on file).
Ms. Adair explained that the amendment would restore to a
full time position the Department's human resource
(personnel) manager. Representative Therriault OBJECTED. A
roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Grussendorf, Hoffman, Navarre
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
MacLean, Larson
The MOTION FAILED (4-7).
Ms. Frasca further explained the Governor's Amendment for
the Department of Environmental Conservation, component
Administration and Pipeline Regional. She provide a chart
detailing funding transfers (Attachment 2). Co-Chair Larson
MOVED to ADOPT the Governor's Amendment for the Department
of Environmental Conservation, component #1820, off-set
miscellaneous through reductions in Administration and
Pipeline Regional. A roll call vote was taken on the
motion.
IN FAVOR: Brown, Hoffman, Grussendorf, Navarre, MacLean
OPPOSED: Foster, Hanley, Martin, Parnell, Therriault,
Larson
The MOTION FAILED (5-6).
Representative Therriault MOVED to ADOPT AMENDMENT DEC-24
(copy on file). The amendment shows reductions of 470 funds
to the departments. Representative Therriault reviewed
Amendment DEC-24. There would be a net reduction of $309.8
thousand dollars. Representative Navarre MOVED to AMEND
Amendment DEC-24, to add $237.3 thousand dollars for LEPC's.
Representative Therriault OBJECTED.
Representative Parnell observed that the spreadsheet should
reflect previous committee action on passing Amendment DEC-
18. Representative Therriault agreed that $500.0 thousand
dollars should be transferred from the Department of
Military and Veterans Affairs to the Department of
Environmental Conservation on the spreadsheet.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-74, Side 2)
Members discussed oil spill contingency planning in the
Department of Natural Resources.
Representative Therriault noted that the amendment
appropriates $1,005.2 million dollars to the Department of
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Law for ongoing litigation regarding the Exxon Valdez spill.
He suggested that the Legislative Finance Division insert in
the proper places where the Committee held open 470 funds
being transferred into departments from the 470 Fund.
Amendment DEC-24 was HELD open.
Representative Therriault MOVED to ADOPT INTENT LANGUAGE
DEC-A: "It is the intent of the Legislature that the Oil
and Hazardous Substance Release Response Fund not be used
for travel outside the state of Alaska." Ms. Adair noted
the necessity to provide employee training that cannot be
obtained in the state of Alaska. Representative Therriault
MOVED to AMEND the intent language to delete the state of
Alaska and insert "the United States and Canada".
Representatives Brown and Davies spoke in support of travel
to Russia.
HB 55 was HELD in Committee.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
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