Legislature(2013 - 2014)HOUSE FINANCE 519
03/11/2014 01:30 PM House FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| HB266 || HB267 | |
| Amendments | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | HB 266 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | HB 267 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
March 11, 2014
1:32 p.m.
1:32:03 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Austerman called the House Finance Committee
meeting to order at 1:32 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Alan Austerman, Co-Chair
Representative Bill Stoltze, Co-Chair
Representative Mark Neuman, Vice-Chair
Representative Mia Costello
Representative Bryce Edgmon
Representative Les Gara
Representative David Guttenberg
Representative Lindsey Holmes
Representative Cathy Munoz
Representative Steve Thompson
Representative Tammie Wilson
MEMBERS ABSENT
None
SUMMARY
HB 266 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS
HB 266 was HEARD and HELD in committee for
further consideration.
HB 267 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET
HB 267 was HEARD and HELD in committee for
further consideration.
HOUSE BILL NO. 266
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government and for
certain programs, capitalizing funds, and making
reappropriations; making appropriations under art. IX,
sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from
the constitutional budget reserve fund."
HOUSE BILL NO. 267
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
capital expenses of the state's integrated
comprehensive mental health program."
1:32:12 PM
^AMENDMENTS
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 1:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representative Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Department of Environmental
Conservation
APPROPRIATION: Air Quality
ALLOCATION: Air Quality
ADD: $160,600, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund --
Interagency (1232)
DELETE: $160,600, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund
(1229)
DEPARTMENT: Department of Environmental
Conservation
APPROPRIATION: Water
ALLOCATION: Water Quality
ADD: $222,300, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund --
Interagency (1232)
DELETE: $222,300, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund
(1229)
DEPARTMENT: Department of Law
APPROPRIATION: Civil Division
ALLOCATION: Regulatory Affairs Public Advocacy
ADD: $136,800, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund --
Interagency (1232)
DELETE: $136,800, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund
(1229)
DEPARTMENT: Department of Natural Resources
APPROPRIATION: Administration & Support
ALLOCATION: State Pipeline Coordinator's
Office
ADD: $670,300, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund --
Interagency (1232)
DELETE: $670,300, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund
(1229)
DEPARTMENT: Department of Transportation &
Public Facilities
APPROPRIATION: Design, Engineering and
Construction
ALLOCATION: Statewide Design and Engineering
Services
ADD: $692,900, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund --
Interagency (1232)
DELETE: $692,900, In-State Natural Gas Pipeline Fund
(1229)
EXPLANATION:
Code 1232 is a newly created code designed to meet
accounting requirements for separation of the Alaska
Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) budget from
money spent by other agencies at the request of AGDC.
This is one of two fund codes that access the in-state
pipeline fund established with the adoption of HB4
during the 2013 session. (The other is code 1229.)
Fund code 1229 should be used only to record the
operating budget of the AGDC. Code 1232 should be used
only to record AGDC's purchases of services from other
state agencies. Agencies can spend code 1232 only as
specified in a reimbursable services agreement signed
by the corporation. Funding for RSAs will be drawn
from the fund without appearing in the operating
budget of AGDC.
The amendment has no impact other than to ensure that
AGDC has control over pipeline funds spent by other
agencies.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Austerman explained that Amendment 1 provided a
technical change clarifying the Alaska Gasline Development
Corporation (AGDC) budget by adding a new code that allowed
for better tracking of funds.
Representative Gara appreciated the explanation. He
understood that the technical code did not alter the
spending requirements.
Co-Chair Austerman concurred. He stated that the technical
amendment improved the AGDC accounting system.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 1 was adopted.
1:34:05 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 2:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Neuman, Austerman, Stoltze,
Munoz, Holmes, T. Wilson, Edgmon, Thompson
DEPARTMENT: Administration
APPROPRIATION: Centralized Administrative
Services
ALLOCATION: Office of the Commissioner
ADD:
It is the intent of the legislature that the
Department of Administration coordinate with the
state's Congressional Delegation; Alaska Mental Health
Trust Authority; the Department of Commerce,
Community, and Economic Development; the Department of
Education and Early Development and school districts;
telecommunication service providers; other affected
entities of the State of Alaska; and any other
relevant stakeholder organization to:
1. Determine the existing broadband resources and
capacity in rural Alaska
2. Identify cost sharing and cost saving
opportunities
a. Through sharing existing broadband resources
b. Through partnering for expansion of broadband
resources
It is the intent of the legislature that the
Department of Administration provide recommendations,
including possible legislation, and findings based on
the results of their coordination and submit them to
the House and Senate Finance Committees by January 15,
2015.
It is the intent of the legislature that the
Department of Administration, Enterprise Technology
Services, prepare a five-year statewide plan that
includes an implementation policy for statewide
information technology systems, including their
procurement and support, which results in cost savings
and will serve the needs of state executive branch
departments, not including state corporations. It is
the intent of the legislature that the Department of
Administration submit a plan to the House and Senate
Finance Committees by January 15, 2015.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Holmes explained that the amendment followed
efforts of the House Department of Administration
subcommittee. The amendment included intent language
requesting the department to work with a variety of
different stakeholders to encourage broadband access
throughout the state. The goal was cost-savings and
efficiency. The second part of the amendment addressed the
Enterprise Technology Services (ETS). She observed many
efforts to provide better services. The amendment's request
included a five-year plan for cost-savings to take
advantage of the services across different departments. A
request was made for the departments to report back to the
finance committees in January 2015.
Co-Chair Austerman stated that the commissioner of the
Department of Administration understood the need for
efficiency.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 2 was adopted.
1:35:35 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 3:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Costello, Edgmon, Munoz, T.
Wilson, Thompson, Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Commerce, Community, and Economic
Development
APPROPRIATION: Community and Regional Affairs
ALLOCATION: Community and Regional Affairs
ADD: $49,200 Boat Registration Fees (1216), IncOTI
EXPLANATION: This amendment restores the 25%
reduction imposed by the House Finance Subcommittee
for the Department of Commerce, Community, and
Economic Development. This organization provides
boating education and training and is the only source
for required marine safety training.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Costello discussed the effort to move grants
to named recipients out of the operating budget and into
the capital budget. The committee inadvertently included
the Alaska Marine Safety Education in the reduction of 25
percent. The amendment reinstated the money because the
funding was derived from boat receipts.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 3 was adopted.
1:36:21 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 4:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Stoltze, Austerman, Holmes,
Thompson, Wilson, Neuman
DEPARTMENT: Fish and Game
APPROPRIATION:
ALLOCATION:
ADD:
It is the intent of the legislature that the
department maintain fishery management activities in
state waters as its top priority when determining
where to apply unallocated reductions included in the
FY2015 operating budget and provide a fishery
management activity prioritization report to the
Finance Committees by October 31, 2014.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Stoltze discussed the amendment. He explained that
the intent language was offered by the Department of Fish
and Game at the request of the committee. The language
prioritized fisheries within state waters.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 4 was adopted.
1:37:23 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 5:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Reps. Austerman, Stoltze, T. Wilson, Holmes,
Edgmon
DEPARTMENT: Department of Fish & Game
APPROPRIATION: Commercial Fisheries
ALLOCATION: Westward Region Fisheries Management
ADD: $200,000, Test Fisheries Receipts, (1109)
EXPLANATION: This amendment adds $200,000 of Test
Fisheries Receipts of Golden King Crab for Red King Crab
Research in the Adak and Petrel Banks areas.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Austerman explained that the department utilized
test fisheries on many different fisheries around the
state. The money was then used for research. He mentioned a
test fisheries program in the Aleutian Islands that
resulted in increased research on the red king crab. The
department requested an increase on authority for the test
fisheries.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 5 was adopted.
1:38:23 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 6:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Neuman, Austerman, Stoltze,
Munoz, Holmes, T. Wilson, Edgmon, Thompson
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
ADD: Intent Language
It is the intent of the legislature that the
Department of Health and Social Services submit a
report of transfers between appropriations that
occurred in the first half of FY2015 by January 30,
2015, and a report of transfers in the second half of
FY2015, by September 1, 2015, to the House and Senate
Finance Committees and the Legislative Finance
Division.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Vice-Chair Neuman explained that the amendment referred to
intent language in the budget. The language would allow the
department up to $50 million in transfers. The $50 million
was covered in the budget. A report was requested for the
House and Senate Finance Committees and the Legislative
Finance Division.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 6 was adopted.
1:39:25 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 7:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Gara, Neuman, and
Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
ADD: Intent Language:
It is the intent of the legislature that the
department find efficiencies, and use savings from
those efficiencies, to implement priorities of the
department. These priorities may include implementing
the 2012 Office of Children's Services Workload Study
recommendations.
EXPLANATION:
The intent of this section is to find efficiencies
(and funding) within the department in order to
implement the Workload Study without increasing the
department's FY15 budget.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Vice-Chair Neuman discussed a report offered by the Office
of Children's Services regarding a workload study. She
noted that three employees were relocated to work on the
issue. The goal was to place more employees into the lower
level and entry level positions to allow more work time
with children in need. The amendment had no fiscal impact.
Representative Gara concurred with the explanation.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 7 was adopted.
1:40:56 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 8:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Neuman, Austerman, Stoltze,
Munoz, Holmes, T. Wilson, Edgmon, Thompson
DEPARTMENT: Department of Health and Social
Services
APPROPRIATION: Behavioral Health
ALLOCATION: Services to the Seriously Mentally
Ill
ADD: $525,000 GF/MH - Fund Code 1037
EXPLANATION:
Complex Behavioral Collaborative Project
Intensive consultative services are offered to
families and programs serving individuals at the
highest risk of being moved to more costly out-of-
state or institutional placements due to difficult-to-
manage behaviors. This project has demonstrated
success in reducing long term General Fund costs by
keeping these Alaskans in their homes and current
placements.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Vice-Chair Neuman noted that the amendment added $525
thousand of general fund mental health money to help with
the Complex Behavior Collaborative project. The program
brought a group of specialists together to help recommend
treatment plans for recipients.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 8 was adopted.
1:41:57 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 9:
FY 2015 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: CSHB 266(FIN) / CSHB 267(FIN)
OFFERED BY: Representative Edgmon and
Representative Austerman
PART A
DEPARTMENT: Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Rural Trooper Housing
ADD: $78,600 General Fund (1004)
ALLOCATION: Alaska Wildlife Troopers
ADD: $112,500 General Fund (1004)
ALLOCATION: Alaska Wildlife Troopers Marine
Enforcement
ADD: $208,900
EXPLANATION:
Part A of this amendment restores 80% of the
Governor's decrements associated with the transfer of
the Patrol Vessel Stimson from Dutch Harbor to Kodiak.
The decrements included in the Governor's request were
split between three allocations:
1) Rural Trooper Housing: ($98,300) UGF
2) Alaska Wildlife Troopers: ($140,600) UGF
3) Alaska Wildlife Troopers Marine Enforcement:
($261,100) UGF
The total of Part A restores $400,000 UGF of
($500,000) UGF deleted by the Governor to relocate the
Stimson from Dutch Harbor to Kodiak.
PART B
DEPARTMENT: Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Alaska Wildlife Marine Enforcement
ADD: $155,000 General Funds (1004)
ADD: 1 PFT position
EXPLANATION:
Part B of this amendment partially restores two
decrements requested by the Governor associated with
decommissioning the Patrol Vessel Woldstad and
replacing it with a smaller 58 foot vessel. A total of
$125,000 will be utilized to keep the Woldstad
available for use during the latter portion of FY15
(repairs estimated to be completed by April 1, 2015)
and $30,000 will fund a deleted Boat Officer for one
quarter of FY15.
The decrements included in the Governor's request for
these related items were transmitted as follows:
1) ($500,000) to decommission the Patrol Vessel
Woldstad; and
2) ($110,900) to delete a vacant Boat Officer IV
assigned to the Woldstad.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Edgmon noted that the amendment allowed the
Stimson to remain home-ported in Alaska. The amendment also
allowed the patrol vessel Woldstad to remain home-ported in
Kodiak. The amendment also restored $400 thousand of the
$500 thousand that the Department of Public Safety proposed
to cut. He stated that part 2 of the amendment pertained to
the vessel Woldstad in Kodiak and recognized the fact that
the vessel would be laid up for three-quarters of the
upcoming fiscal year. He noted that $155 thousand would be
added to pay for the operations for the remaining quarter.
1:43:13 PM
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 9 was adopted.
1:43:19 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 10:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Neuman, Austerman, Stoltze,
Munoz, Holmes, T. Wilson, Edgmon, Thompson
DEPARTMENT: Department of Revenue
APPROPRIATION: Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority
ADD: Intent Language
It is the intent of the legislature that the Alaska
Mental Health Trust assess the potential impact of
expanded broadband on long term general fund operating
costs by looking at the following:
1. Existing broadband capacity (including
educational and tribal health networks) that could be
accessed by the state;
2. The broadband capacity needed to improve access
to health care;
3. Costs of and barriers to expanding broadband; and
4. Potential long-term general fund savings
attributable to expanding broadband access.
It is also the intent of the legislature that the
Alaska Mental Health Trust submit a report to the
legislature outlining the results of assessing the
above items by January 15, 2015.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Vice-Chair Neuman discussed the intent language. He
credited the committee with their hard work over the
interim to review issues in the Department of Health and
Social Services budget. Through the discussions he worked
with the Alaska Mental Health Trust on broadband
opportunities. He wondered what might be used to reduce the
Department of Health and Social Services budget by using
existing services. He noted that there were no additional
funds used in the amendment. He preferred to utilize the
resources available to help reduce the cost in Department
of Health and Social Services. He wished to increase the
department's efficiency.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 10 was adopted.
1:44:43 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 11:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Thompson and Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Revenue
APPROPRIATION: Alaska Mental Health Trust
Authority
ALLOCATION: Mental Health Trust Operations
ADD: $49,900 Mental Health Trust Admin Receipts (1094)
- Inc
EXPLANATION:
The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority (the Trust)
Board of Trustees seeks restoration
of funds previously approved by the Board of Trustees
which were not included in the
Governor's original or amended FY2015 budget requests.
The Trust's administrative budget supports essential
work of the Board of Trustees as
well as the administrative operations of the Trust.
The funding is necessary for the Trust
to continue to meet the Trust's statutory obligations,
fulfill its mission and maintain support functions.
Reasonable and necessary expenses to be funded by
restored funds include honorariums and associated
costs of holding additional meetings that Trustees
have requested to be scheduled, which assists them in
their important planning and deliberative decision
making processes. Other costs include anticipated
contractual increases associated with performance of
the Trust's annual audit (due to new real estate
investments acquired and managed by the Department of
Natural Resources, Trust Land Office) as well as
increases in contracts for fiscal analysis, legal
consultations, and program analysis - all reasonable
expenses which aid Trustees and staff in their
essential duties. Finally, the increase will cover
cost of living adjustments which the Trust is required
to pay.
This MHTAAR Administration funding was approved by the
Board of Trustees at the September 4-6, 2013 board
meeting. This funding does not create a new position.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Thompson discussed the amendment that would
restore $49,900 of mental health trust administrative
receipts to their budget. The funding was requested by the
trustees to help with essential work including
administrative operations. He stated that the funding was
necessary for the trust to continue to meet their statutory
obligation by covering the cost of additional meetings
already requested by the trust in deliberative decisions.
The funding would cover anticipated contractual increases
associated with the performance of the trust's annual
audit. The increase would also cover the cost of living
adjustments that the trust was required to pay.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 11 was adopted.
1:46:13 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 12:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Representative Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Transportation & Public Facilities
APPROPRIATION: Highways, Aviation and Facilities
ALLOCATION: Central Region Highways and
Aviation
ADD: $71,000, Vehicle Rental Tax Receipts, (1200)
DELETE: $71,000, General Funds, (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment replaces $71,000
unrestricted general funds with available Vehicle
Rental Tax Receipts.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Austerman stated that the amendment moved $71
thousand out of the vehicle rental tax receipts, which were
not fully expended. The funds would be moved to the
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:46:54 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 13:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Stoltze and Austerman
DEPARTMENT: Alaska Court System
APPROPRIATION: Alaska Court System
ALLOCATION: Trial Courts
DELETE: $21,900 General Funds (1004)
EXPLANATION: The Court System has recently been
advised that lease cost increases associated with the
Nome Court House will not be needed until FY16. This
amendment decreases the $104,300 appropriated by the
House Subcommittee for existing facility leases.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Stoltze stated that the amendment was the only
decrement in the Courts budget. He pointed out that the
reprieve from the lease costs was for one year only.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:47:56 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 14:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Austerman, Neuman, Edgmon, T.
Wilson, Holmes, Munoz
ADD LANGUAGE
Insert the following language in a new section
following section 4 in HB 266 and following section 8
in HB 267.
LEGISLATIVE INTENT. It is the intent of the
legislature that the Departments of Corrections,
Health and Social Services, and Labor and Workforce
Development, along with the Alaska Mental Health Trust
Authority, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, and the
Alaska Court System, continue to work collaboratively
to identify common clients who are being released from
correctional institutions and do the following:
1. Develop and implement a comprehensive,
complementary, non-duplicative plan for providing
substance abuse, mental health, housing and employment
services to those who are released from correctional
institutions.
2. Use the plan to assist the Departments,
Authority, agency, and Court System in improving
treatment and other outcomes for recently released
inmates with the goal of reducing correctional system
recidivism rates.
3. Gather and analyze data on the substance abuse,
mental health, employment and housing services needed
and the services provided to the released clients.
4. Propose effectiveness and efficiency measures for
the new plan.
5. Jointly report on plan implementation and data
findings to the legislature by February 2, 2015.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Austerman stated that Vice-Chair Neuman addressed
the issue of recidivism in the Department of Corrections
budget. The intent language resulted from work with
Department of Health and Social Services, Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities and the Alaska Mental
Health Trust Authority (AMHTA). He stated that the
amendment was an effort to control the recidivism problem.
Vice-Chair Neuman added that the goal was to reduce drug
and alcohol abuse. He noted that people in corrections were
asking for help to refrain from alcohol and drug abuse. He
spoke about a recent conversation with a person released
from corrections without a convenient place to live. The
plan would allow for greater assistance in similar
scenarios.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 14 was adopted.
1:50:38 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 15, 28-
GH2671\P.5, Wallace, 3/10/14, (copy on file):
Page 53, following line 3:
Insert a new bill section to read:
"* Sec. 5. CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS. (a) It is the
intent of the legislature to increase crime victims'
access to the criminal justice process, to improve
communication between criminal justice agencies and
crime victims, and to ensure that crime victims' legal
rights are not denied. Crime victims in this state
should be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness
as guaranteed by the Constitution of the State of
Alaska. The Department of Law, Department of
Corrections, Department of Public Safety, and the
division in the Department of Health and Social
Services responsible for juvenile justice should
continue to partner with the office of victims' rights
to improve the criminal justice process for crime
victims.
(b) One of the surest ways to affect each victim's
sense of fairness and justice is through clear and
consistent communication by agency staff to crime
victims. Timely communication to crime victims helps
to ensure victims' notice and opportunity to be heard
at key stages of criminal investigations and
prosecutions. Police officers and prosecutors, upon
first contact with crime victims, are required by law
to inform crime victims about the office of victims'
rights. Law enforcement agencies, prosecutors,
corrections agencies, social service agencies, and the
courts should make every reasonable effort to ensure
that victims' legal rights are preserved. Victims'
privacy and dignity should be protected throughout the
process. A timely and fair disposition of criminal
charges promotes public trust, including victims'
trust, in the criminal justice process. Timely, full,
and prompt financial restitution to crime victims also
provides crime victims with a tangible sense that the
criminal justice system has acted to restore the
victim."
Renumber the following bill sections accordingly.
Page 58, line 28:
Delete "sec. 25(j)"
Insert "sec. 26(j)"
Page 70, line 22:
Delete "sec. 15(b)"
Insert "sec. 16(b)"
Page 76, lines 13 - 14:
Delete "secs. 8(c), 9, 10(b), and 25 - 27"
Insert "secs. 9(c), 10, 11(b), and 26 - 28"
Page 76, line 15:
Delete "sec. 12(h)(1)"
Insert "sec. 13(h)(1)"
Page 76, line 20:
Delete "Sections 30 and 34"
Insert "Sections 31 and 35"
Page 76, line 21:
Delete "Section 26(c)"
Insert "Section 27(c)"
Page 76, line 22:
Delete "secs. 35 and 36"
Insert "secs. 36 and 37"
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Stoltze discussed the bill related to victims'
rights. He credited Representative Holmes with her efforts
on the amendment. He stated that the acuity of awareness
was not available for the rights of victims of crime. He
noted that the measure was very popular in the state. He
stated that Alaska was continuing to work on victim rights
for the people of Alaska. The intent language served as a
reminder to several departments involved in the
administration of justice. The measure was an expectation
of behavior for every branch of government to have a role
in protecting and ensuring the rights of victims of crime.
He stated his passion for the issue.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 15 was adopted.
1:53:34 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 16:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: CSHB 266 (FIN)
OFFERED BY: Rep. Austerman
REVISE LANGUAGE: Decrement $2,267,813 General Funds
(1004) by amending sec. 23(k) to read:
(k) The sum of $126,642,396[128,910,209] is
appropriated to the Department of Education and Early
Development for state aid for costs of school
construction under AS 14.11.100 for the fiscal year
ending June 30, 2015, from the following sources:
General Fund
$107,342,396[$109,610,209]
School Fund (AS 43.50.140)
19,300,000
EXPLANATION:
Based on recent projections, the amount of state aid
required for costs of school construction under AS
14.11.100 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015 is
estimated to be $2,267,813 less than originally
requested. Reasons for a lower projection include
anticipated projects not approved, debt for several
projects sold later than anticipated, and a larger
premium received than anticipated.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Austerman noted that the amendment was brought by
the administration for $2,267,813 for school construction
reimbursement that was not utilized and added it back into
the budget.
Co-Chair Stoltze WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Amendment 16 was adopted.
1:54:27 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 17:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Reps. Costello, T. Wilson, Neuman
DEPARTMENT: Department of Health and Social
Services
APPROPRIATION: Public Health
ALLOCATION: Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion
DELETE: $720,000 General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This decrement removes funding for the
advertising and research portion for the "Play Every
Day Campaign." More specifically the proposed
contract work listed below.
Table C. (Provided by the Department of Health and
Social Services)
Contract 1: Northwest Strategies - Main Deliverables
Amount
Provide social marketing consultation and a three-year
strategic plan to build a campaign that helps reduce
childhood obesity in Alaska. $160.0
Develop public education materials that include TV and
radio PSAs, print and online materials, a website,
social media, and a library of images and video.
$130.0
Provide social marketing technical assistance and
training to DHSS's nine new school district grantees
to improve public education statewide. Provide social
marketing consultation to the Alaska Alliance for
Healthy Kids. $10.0
Acquire and place media that effectively reaches the
target audience statewide, hitting the CDC target for
Gross Rating Points (GRPs) to impact behavior change.
$350.0
SUBTOTAL $650.0
Contract 2: Hayes Research Group - Deliverable
Focus groups to inform motivational messages, and one
survey to evaluate the effectiveness of the messages.
$70.0
CONTRACTS TOTAL $720.0
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Costello explained that the amendment
reduced the operating budget by $720 thousand as part of an
overall obesity prevention effort. She clarified that her
intent was not to comment on the quality and importance of
the effort. She opined that the television advertising
portion of the program could be postponed during the times
of tight budgets. The classroom portion of the effort was
valuable. She offered the amendment because of the current
budget environment.
Representative Holmes respectfully disagreed with the
amendment sponsor. She stated that she heard from the
department that obesity was its largest challenge and led
to increases in Medicaid costs. She stressed that obesity
was the state's number one health challenge.
Representative Wilson wondered if television could change
the children's behavior. She wondered if placing Physical
Education classes back into school curriculum would help
solve the problem. She opined that television was not the
best method for directing the important information. She
encouraged Physical Education in the public schools to
address the issue of childhood obesity. She would prefer to
spend the funds helping children in the schools.
Representative Gara acknowledged that obesity prevention
was a large issue. He noted that Representative Costello
and Senator McGuire discussed the possibility of a physical
education task force. He agreed that the state was
deficient in physical education due to the increase in
mandates. He mentioned that poor food choices for school
lunches and child activity levels were also culprits in
childhood obesity. Vice-Chair Neuman supported the
amendment based on the restraints in the Department of
Health and Social Services budget. He stated that the
reduction was not an easy one, but he supported the
amendment.
Representative Edgmon appreciated the comments, but opposed
the amendment. He discussed the cost and benefits of the
program. He pointed out the benefits of prevention and
awareness in both rural and urban Alaska.
Representative Munoz expressed interest in the campaign as
a gentle reminder to stay active. She found the campaign to
be successful.
Representative Guttenberg stated that the Division of
Public Health addressed the importance of diabetes and
obesity during subcommittee hearings. He acknowledged that
affecting kids was challenging. He believed that the Play
Every Day campaign was valuable and effective. He pointed
out that the state expense curve might be affected by the
campaign.
Representative Costello mentioned that the amendment
addressed only part of the program. The classroom portion
of the program would remain intact to aid in reducing
childhood obesity. She noted that the Healthy Futures
portion of the program would remain intact. She mentioned
her son's activity level and how he benefited from the
messages provided in the classroom.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Neuman, Thompson, Wilson, Costello, Austerman,
Stoltze
OPPOSED: Edgmon, Gara, Guttenberg, Holmes, Munoz
The MOTION PASSED (6/5).
2:05:16 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 18:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Reps. Stoltze and Neuman
DEPARTMENT: Transportation and Public
Facilities
APPROPRIATION: Marine Highway System
ALLOCATION:
ADD:
It is the intent of the legislature that the
department eliminate any future issuing of free annual
passes for vehicles of state agencies, state
employees, or retirees and their families on the
Alaska Marine Highway System.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Co-Chair Stoltze stated that the amendment's intent
language appeared in the budget last year. He recalled
conversations with people involved in the negotiation
process about the issue of free passes. The issue was not
about free passenger service, but about free vehicle
service. He noted that a vehicle passage was quite
expensive and space on the ferries was limited. He stated
that the change would yield approximately $1 million in
benefit per year. He stated that the benefit was offered to
employees and their families, both residents and non-
residents. He stated that inaction by the legislature was a
statement of support. He acknowledged that the topic was
not easy to introduce, but he felt that the amendment
allowed for prudent fiscal action. He explained that the
benefit was not universal for transportation related items
in the state. He offered the amendment in the spirit of
fiscal prudence.
2:09:12 PM
Representative Gara understood the value of the amendment.
He wondered about retaining the benefit for retirees and
their families.
Co-Chair Stoltze opined that Representative Gara's notion
could be offered in a separate amendment. He defended the
Alaska Marine Highway as coastal Alaska's highway corridor,
but the state struggled to provide ferry service to some
areas. He mentioned the rising cost of fuel inhibiting the
marine highway. He mentioned the salary denial for the
executive branch and noted that the practice would become
more common with the fiscal climate in the state. He
understood that the issue might be negotiated in the
bargaining agreement. He wished to view all potential costs
that eroded the ability to provide services. He stated that
the Alaska Marine Highway utilized a large portion of the
state's transportation budget. He found difficulty
justifying the spending to those constituents in the state
who did not benefit from the service.
Vice-Chair Neuman discussed the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities budget, which was
reduced by approximately $3 million. He noted that future
budgets would be in question without some reductions. The
amendment asked the people who use the ferry system to help
fund the ferry system.
2:13:51 PM
Co-Chair Austerman stated that he did not support the
amendment. He believed that the legislature had the
responsibility of approving the contracts and the funding
for them. He stated that the negotiated contract contained
the benefit and the state was in the process of
negotiations. He felt it appropriate for the negotiation
parties to determine the process with the passenger vehicle
benefit. He recalled that the administration could be asked
to renegotiate if the legislature was unhappy with the
results. He thought that the appropriate avenue was to
respect the negotiation process.
Representative Gara stated that he was unaware of the issue
of negotiated contracts. He asked if the state employee
provision was part of the collective bargaining.
Co-Chair Austerman replied that the vehicle passes were
negotiated in the collective bargaining agreement.
Representative Gara understood.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Thompson, Wilson, Costello, Holmes, Neuman,
Stoltze
OPPOSED: Edgmon, Gara, Guttenberg, Munoz, Austerman
The MOTION PASSED (6/5).
2:16:35 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 19, 28-
GH2671\P.2, Gardner/Wallace, 3/6/14 (copy on file):
Page 56, line 30, following "associations":
Insert "for the following purposes:
(1) promotion of seafood and seafood by-products that
are harvested in the region and processed for sale;
(2) promotion of improvements to the commercial
fishing industry and infrastructure in the seafood
development region;
(3) establishment of education, research,
advertising, or sales promotion programs for seafood
products harvested in the region;
(4) preparation of market research and product
development plans for the promotion of seafood and
their by-products that are harvested in the region and
processed for sale;
(5) cooperation with the Alaska Seafood Marketing
Institute and other public or private boards,
organizations, or agencies engaged in work or
activities similar to the work of the organization,
including entering into contracts for joint programs
of consumer education, sales promotion, quality
control, advertising, and research in the production,
processing, or distribution of seafood harvested in
the region;
(6) cooperation with commercial fishermen,
fishermen's organizations, seafood processors, the
Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation, the Fisheries
Industrial Technology Center, state and federal
agencies, and other relevant persons and entities to
investigate market reception to new seafood product
forms and to develop commodity standards and future
markets for seafood products"
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Costello explained that language in the
budget must be offered in the full finance committee. She
informed the committee that the issue was discussed in the
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
budget subcommittee who favored the amendment's
introduction in the House Finance Committee. She noted that
the amendment took a current state statute and placed it in
the language portion of the budget. She noted that statute
AS 44.33.065 addressed the Regional Seafood Development
Associations (RSDA) that were created to promote and market
their fishery and seafood products. She noted two RSDA's
funded through a 2 percent development tax paid by the
members. The amendment stressed that the purpose of the
funds was to promote the fishery.
Representative Edgmon understood the intent of the
amendment, but did not support the amendment. He stated
that the amendment was directed to the RSDA in the Bristol
Bay region. He corrected that 1 percent of RSDA operations
were passed back to the Department of Commerce, Community
and Economic Development.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Wilson, Costello, Holmes, Munoz, Neuman,
Thompson, Stoltze
OPPOSED: Edgmon, Gara, Guttenberg, Austerman
The MOTION PASSED (7/4).
2:20:00 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 20:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Representatives Gara and Guttenberg
DEPARTMENT: Labor and Workforce Development
APPROPRIATION: Business Partnerships
ALLOCATION: Business Services
ADD: $2,391,700 GF (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment will restore the base
funding in the governor's requested budget for the
Alaska Youth First Program. This program provides
grants to organizations across the state to assist
Alaskans - both school age students and adults - in
job readiness and career counseling. Restoration will
help offset losses of job and career counselors school
districts have been forced to cut the past three
years.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Gara discussed the amendment. He stated that
the minority felt that the series of education amendments
were important. He expressed willingness to compromise if
another committee member offered a different suggestion. He
stated that the Alaska Youth First program was relatively
new to most Alaskans. The program provided job training,
career counselling in schools and with non-profit entities
where the youth were trained for the workforce. He
explained that guidance counsellors across the state were
lost in the schools due to budget cuts. He pointed out the
$2.3 million reduction from the governor's proposal. The
amendment would restore the governor's proposal. He stated
that $2.3 million of career counselling would be lost for
at-risk youth without the amendment. He explained that he
would prefer to have an at-risk youth in a job than in the
corrections system.
Representative Gara listed the services provided by the
Alaska Youth First program. In Anchorage, Ninestar used the
funds to pay for the first month of work for at-risk youth.
He stated that 90 percent of the youth remain in their jobs
after the first 30 days were paid for with the funds. He
noted that Ninestar reached out to the Mat-Su valley where
job training and job placement were provided for homeless
and at-risk youth. He quoted a business that employed the
youth: "this program is extremely important for youth in
our community wishing to get a fresh start into the
employment world." He mentioned other centers that served
youth statewide to train and get them into work. He stated
that the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
served approximately 2500 youth with career counselling.
Dillingham provided job training and placement services to
130 students. A portion of the funding was used for career
counselors and school districts and another portion went to
non-profit entities. All of the funds were used to enable
gainful employment for youth, a substantial portion of who
were at-risk youth. He offered to accept a different
funding amount if there was evidence that a portion of the
program was not working.
2:25:42 PM
Representative Guttenberg stated that the students
testifying about their experience with the program
impressed him. The students experienced benefits that were
otherwise unavailable. He noted that the societal kick
offered through the program made a difference in the kids'
lives. He suggested that keeping youth off the street would
prevent further social problems. He spoke to the many
benefits of the Alaska Youth First program.
Representative Wilson wished for statistics proving that
the program was working. She was unable to obtain the
statistics taken by the Department of Labor and Workforce
Development. She stressed that entire programs must be cut
to reduce the budget. Most money was federally matched by
general funds. She took the cut seriously. She stressed the
need for statistics proving the program's effectiveness.
2:30:34 PM
Representative Gara appreciated that Representative Wilson
did not take the cuts lightly. He hoped that unanswered
questions were tended to prior to the end of session. He
understood cutting a wasteful program or one that was low
on the list of priorities, but he questioned cutting a
program that made such a large impact on the lives of
individuals. He found evidence that the program enabled
youth to obtain gainful employment. He pointed out the
excuse that the money was not available. He noted that $8
billion worth of mega projects were questionable and he
hoped that the same standards were applied to those
projects.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Costello, Gara, Guttenberg, Munoz
OPPOSED: Edgmon, Holmes, Neuman, Thompson, Wilson,
Austerman, Stoltze
The MOTION FAILED (4/7).
2:33:44 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 21:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Representatives Gara and Guttenberg
DEPARTMENT: Education and Early Development
APPROPRIATION: K-12 Support
ALLOCATION: Foundation Program
ADD: New Language Section: Sec. 14(b)
The sum of $101,000,000 is appropriated from the
general fund to the Department of Education and Early
Development to be distributed as state aid to
districts according to the average daily membership
for each district adjusted under AS 14.17.410(b)(1)(A)
- (D) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015.
Renumber sections accordingly.
EXPLANATION: This amendment would reflect the
equivalent of a $404 Base Student Allocation increase
in the event a base student allocation bill to reverse
the recent course of educator cuts does not pass.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Gara explained that the amendment would
distribute a $404 increase in the Base Student Allocation
(BSA) through the foundation formula to the various school
districts. The state lost over 600 education staff with
further layoffs expected under the governor's proposal. He
stated that parents across the state were concerned about
the education policy. He requested a reversal of the cuts.
According to a recent legislative research report, the
largest school districts in the state would require a $315
Base Student Allocation (BSA) increase to retain staff.
Representative Gara noted that Alaska ranked 48th in third
grade reading level. Employers reported that students were
graduated prior to achievement of workplace readiness. The
governor's proposal would result in approximately 1000 lost
staff by next year. He mentioned the major education
reforms of 2007 and 2008. The reforms ended discrimination
against rural school districts by increasing the cost-of-
living factor. He noted that the state paid a larger
portion of the unfunded pension liability for Public
Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and Teachers Retirement
System (TRS) for school districts. The funds were placed
into a trust fund. He suggested that classroom funding was
a separate issue.
Representative Gara continued that teachers must teach to
the individual student. As class sizes expanded, teachers
were at a disadvantage. He revealed that many parents
contacted his office with statements about leaving Alaska
because of the faulty education system. When families
leave, Alaska's economy suffered. He urged the committee to
support the amendment.
2:39:07 PM
Co-Chair Austerman pointed out that HB 278 would arrive in
committee with a proposed increase to the BSA. He asked if
the increase of $101 million would go to the BSA.
Representative Gara replied that the funds would be
distributed through the BSA formula.
Representative Holmes expressed sympathy, but would not
support the amendment. She stated that the omnibus bill
would include the BSA and a hearing in committee was
imminent. She anticipated the discussion about the prudent
increase in the level of BSA. She supported increases in
the BSA, but wished to postpone a decision until HB 278 was
heard in committee.
Representative Guttenberg appreciated the focus on the
issue. He expressed frustration about postponing difficult
issues. He stated that the best time to address the issue
was the present. He pointed out that quality schools often
determined a family's chosen location. He supported the
amendment.
2:43:26 PM
Representative Wilson explained that the education
subcommittee did not discuss the formula portion, it was
considered a policy decision. She wished to have facts and
figures from the department before she made a decision.
Representative Edgmon appreciated the amendment's intent.
He anticipated the arrival of HB 278, which included a
provision for the K-12 formula. He stated that he would
support an increase to the BSA in the governor's bill. He
stated that solving the issue was important to bring the
session to a close. He thought that the committee might be
better served by waiting for the upcoming legislation. He
commented that education was a large and important topic
each and every session and the negotiation process was
crucial.
2:46:21 PM
Representative Gara offered to distribute legislative
research reports regarding the avoidance of cuts to
education. He stated that Anchorage required an increase of
$251, Fairbanks required $275, Juneau required $450, Kenai
required $270, Kodiak required $400 and Mat-Su required an
increase of $250. He noted that the last version of HB 278
would result in a fourth year of cuts. The funding in the
amendment would be distributed as a BSA increase.
Co-Chair Austerman commented that the state and
municipalities shared responsibility for funding education.
He believed that some of the large districts had not funded
to the cap. He welcomed a discussion regarding the
responsibility for funding education.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Gara, Guttenberg
OPPOSED: Edgmon, Holmes, Munoz, Neuman, Thompson, Wilson,
Costello, Stoltze, Austerman
The MOTION FAILED (2/7).
2:49:41 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 22:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266
OFFERED BY: Representatives Gara and Guttenberg
DEPARTMENT: Education and Early Development
APPROPRIATION: Teaching and Learning Support
ALLOCATION: Pre-Kindergarten Grants
ADD: $2,000,000 GF (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment will allow more students
to participate in Pre-K. High-quality Pre-K programs
have been proven to improve a child's chances of
succeeding in school and in life. Children who attend
high-quality programs are less likely to be held back
a grade, less likely to need special education, and
more likely to graduate from high school and college.
They also have higher earnings as adults and are less
likely to become dependent on welfare or involved with
law enforcement.
The current $2 million program only serves roughly 300
students. This "pilot" program started in FY10 and
was intended to become a statewide effort once its
success was shown. It has proven successful.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Gara explained the Pre-K amendment. He noted
the previous governor and education commissioner started a
pilot Pre-K program. Alaska provided Pre-K to approximately
half the percentage of that provided by other states. Youth
who experience Pre-K earn more money and graduate high
school and college in higher numbers. The pilot program had
proven itself with an increase in reading comprehension and
intellectual achievement. The goal was to expand the
program across the state to a greater number of students.
He appreciated the Parents as Teachers program. He pointed
out that Head Start funding increased twice in 14 years. He
wished to see Pre-K promoted.
2:52:51 PM
Representative Thompson believed in Pre-K, but most Pre-K
options educated young children for half of one day. He
stated that the projection of $2 million for 300 students
was higher than the BSA. He hoped to see legislature
address the important issue again when the state is flush
with money.
Representative Holmes stated that she supported Best
Beginnings, Imagination Library, Parents as Teachers and
Headstart. She wished to address education during the
upcoming conversation about the BSA. She wished to support
Pre-K with the proposed increase, but would focus her
education efforts on the K-12 system.
2:55:09 PM
Representative Wilson reminded that the pilot program
should apply funding to different types of preschools to
enable further information for the department. She wondered
about expenses related to other increases. She stated that
the program cost the state approximately $16 thousand per
student. She explained that the funding would address
voluntary preschools. She noted that the Department of
Health and Social Services was also responsible for some
childcare funding. She mentioned that many bush communities
raised their own funds for Pre-K efforts. She shared a
story about educating her 4 year old granddaughter at home.
She argued that Pre-K could be addressed in a variety of
different ways. She encouraged the committee to vote
against the amendment.
2:58:33 PM
Representative Guttenberg supported the amendment because
he felt that all children deserved the opportunity to
benefit from the grants. He spoke to the benefit of the
Imagination Library and Best Beginnings. He shared a story
about a young girl at the post office with her Imagination
Library book.
3:00:15 PM
Representative Gara corrected that the funds did not have
to go to the most expensive Pre-K option. He stated that
Parents as Teachers cost a fraction of the funds required
for a Pre-K classroom. The grant funds could be allocated
for Parents as Teachers. The Department of Education and
Early Development would administer the grants. If the
department achieved a more expensive program, the money
could be used for Pre-K programs that were more efficient.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Gara, Guttenberg, Edgmon
OPPOSED: Holmes, Munoz, Neuman, Thompson, Wilson,
Costello, Austerman, Stoltze
The MOTION FAILED (3/8).
3:01:54 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 23:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Guttenberg and Gara
DEPARTMENT: University of Alaska
APPROPRIATION: University of Alaska
ALLOCATION: Budget Reductions/Additions -
Systemwide
ADD: $424,500 ($357,100 UGF 1004 /
$67,400 UNIV RCPT 1048)
EXPLANATION: This increment will complete the
mandatory comprehensive advising program across the
University of Alaska.
UAF College of Rural and Community Development Student
Advisors
UAF CRCD campuses deliver courses that allow students
to receive education and training in or near their
home community. Rural campuses offer students
certificate and associate degree programs that lead to
jobs and the preparation needed to transfer to a
baccalaureate program if desired. This project
supports two student advisors to be housed at the
Bristol Bay Campus and Kuskokwim campus. A Research
Specialist will also be supported to perform degree
audits, so that student advisors can contact non-
completing, degree-seeking students to encourage them
to complete their degree.
UAS First Year Advisor
The goal of this position is to continue to increase
the retention of first-year students.
The most critical transition in every student's career
happens during the first six weeks.
This position will deliver services directed solely to
first-year-students such as:
• Teach first-year courses that are currently not
offered, building off new student
orientation.
• Take a leading role in delivering a student
leadership program focused on first year
students.
• Manage and integrate critical student transition
efforts that are currently offered on an ad hoc basis.
UAS Disability Support Provider
Students seeking accommodations for disabilities are
one of the fastest growing sub-populations at UAS. On
the Juneau campus, there has been a 73% increase in
requests from 2009 to 2012. This increment is critical
to fulfilling our student learning mission, especially
when the new 120- bed residence hall fills with a
diverse pool of traditional-age full-time students in
the fall of 2014. Currently UAS has a .5 FTE
professional staff dedicated to providing this service
and has been utilizing temporary hires to meet current
needs. These positions will have a direct and positive
impact on retention rates, credit hours, and
efficiency of student services.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Guttenberg explained that the amendment
would increase advisors in three different university
campuses. He discussed reports from college students
claiming that an advisor offered the necessary help to
allow them to succeed. He noted that the advisors were
placed in the different locations to help students and
increase the retention rate allowing the state investment
to flourish. He opined that the advisor program operated
efficiently by incentivizing education for university
students in Alaska.
Representative Munoz believed that the program was
worthwhile. She reminded the committee that the university
had the authority to move funds within the system through
the authority of the single appropriation. She supported
efforts to add counselling funds. She recalled that $544
thousand was added in FY 13 to a program called Making
Achievement Possible. Four permanent full-time positions
were added. She continued that $873 thousand was added for
student support services for comprehensive advising that
paid for 8 permanent full-time positions in FY 13. She
mentioned that an addition of $125 thousand for an advisory
position for performance success was offered in the same
year. In FY 14, the effort was expanded to include $400
thousand in mandatory comprehensive student advising at UAS
and positions at Anchorage, Kodiak, Mat-Su, Kenai and
Valdez. She requested that the committee vote against the
amendment.
3:05:52 PM
Representative Gara stated that retaining students through
their first year of college allowed them to attain a two or
four year degree. The program worked in other places and
the amendment would allow funding to complete the program
at University of Alaska Southeast and University of Alaska
Fairbanks. He stated that the graduation rate for the
university was approximately 26 percent. The national
public college graduation rate was 56 percent. The
amendment was aimed at repairing the problem at a cost of
$357 thousand. He agreed with Representative Munoz that
other campuses had the advisor positions funded. The
amendment would allow for statewide advisors in the
university. He added that the request was made by the
Regents.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Guttenberg, Gara
OPPOSED: Holmes, Munoz, Neuman, Thompson, Wilson, Costello,
Edgmon, Stoltze, Austerman
The MOTION FAILED (2/9).
3:08:29 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 24:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Guttenberg and Gara
DEPARTMENT: University of Alaska
APPROPRIATION: University of Alaska
ALLOCATION: Anchorage Campus
ADD: $727,900 ($652,900 UGF 1004 / $75,000
UNIV RCPT 1048)
EXPLANATION: This increment will provide funding for
the Alaska Area Health Education Center (AHEC) program
that provides critical healthcare workforce
development activities in each region across the
state.
The AHEC System is key to growing, strengthening and
diversifying the healthcare workforce. AHEC is housed
at the University of Alaska Anchorage and the Program
Office sets the direction for annual and long-term
performance. AHEC centers are located in five regions:
Southcentral, Southeast, Northwest, the Yukon
Kuskokwim Delta, the Interior and the Program Office
in Anchorage.
AHEC activities use the Alaska Health Workforce
Coalition's strategies to engage, train, recruit and
retain healthcare workers.
The AHECs use live and distance-delivered continuing
education and training opportunities, health career
presentations and job fairs, job shadows, internships,
clinical rotations, preceptor / clinical coach
development and health career camps, each according to
regional needs.
Engaging Potential Healthcare Professionals:
AHECS reached 816 students and 64% stated they were
more interested in health careers after the AHEC
activity. AHECs also coordinated 245 job shadows
across Alaska.
Training Healthcare Professionals:
AHECS coordinated and funded 225 clinical rotations
and developed six new clinical sites, expanding
Alaska's capacity for training students and getting
them through school.
Recruiting Healthcare Professionals to Work in Alaska
Communities:
The Department of Labor and Workforce Development
provided data to assess programmatic impact by
tracking how many students since 2006 are working in
Alaska. 1,089 students have graduated and 843 (77%)
are working in Alaska. 18% work in a rural borough or
census area. This percentage is considerably higher
than average rural recruitment rates, which range
nationally between 8-12%.
Retaining Alaska's Healthcare Professionals:
AHEC's workforce retention strategy centers on
providing and improving access to continuing education
and professional development. This strategy is widely
recognized as a key to health workforce retention. In
2013, 1,171 unique participants attended AHEC training
and professional development and 45% were from rural
communities. The Rural Veterans' Health Access
trainings touched 108 providers and 309 additional
participated in the Alzheimer's training series, of
which 56% reported a plan to implement a change in
their practice.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Guttenberg discussed the growing segment of
healthcare. The amendment for the Alaska Area Health
Education Center (AHEC) would help guide students into
healthcare tracks. He noted that AHEC was recognized for
efficiency in distant learning, training opportunities and
clinical placement. He compared the program to a job fair.
He noted that the program focused students on career
opportunities in deficient fields. He discussed the high
cost of locum healthcare providers.
Representative Guttenberg spoke to the benefit of retaining
local community members. He noted that the health of the
state was stronger with the local health care providers. He
spoke about the various communities with strategies to
train and retain with distance learning. The program
encouraged students to follow the career tracks.
3:11:11 PM
Representative Munoz stated that the university could
approve the funding through the single appropriation
authority granted. She highlighted the healthcare
certificate and degree programs. She spoke to FY 10
approval of $1 million for health occupation training
programs and $2.2 million for the graduate medical
education family practice residency. In FY 13, the state
approved $429 thousand for the University of Alaska
Anchorage nurse practitioner program and $390 thousand for
the physical therapy program. She added that the
legislature approved funding for the Bristol Bay campus for
expansion of the nursing program in FY 14. She requested
that the committee vote against the amendment.
Representative Gara stated that the single appropriation
methodology might be effective in another year. He noted
that the university was receiving $15 million less this
year than last. He stated that the operating budget
included $15 million less than the governor's proposed
budget. He was unsure about where the money would come
from. He suggested cutting the physical therapy and
engineering programs. The single appropriation concept was
an unsure prospect with less funding in the budget.
3:13:51 PM
Representative Munoz stated that the subcommittee approved
the negotiated labor contracts and operational funding for
the Mat-Su and University of Alaska Anchorage sports
facility. She believed that the reductions were closer to
$11 million.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Gara, Guttenberg
OPPOSED: Holmes, Munoz, Neuman, Thompson, Wilson,
Costello, Edgmon, Austerman, Stoltze
The MOTION FAILED (2/9).
3:15:12 PM
Co-Chair Austerman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 25:
FY15 OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT
OFFERED IN: The House Finance Committee
TO: HB 266 / HB 267
OFFERED BY: Representatives Guttenberg and Gara
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Senior and Disability Services
ALLOCATION: Senior Community Based Grants
ADD: $325,000 GF (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment will help fund the
Caregiver Support Program. This program is available
to unpaid family caregivers of persons age 60 and over
and to grandparents or older individuals who are
relative caregivers of a child who is not more than 18
years of age. The program helps keep Alaskans out of
institutional care by providing respite, caregiver
training, equipment and home modifications.
Co-Chair Stoltze OBJECTED for discussion.
Representative Guttenberg discussed the amendment and the
grant to support unpaid caregivers. He pointed out the
rising number of seniors in the state. He discussed a chart
he viewed earlier in committee displaying the growing
expense of programs. He discussed smart funding, which
allowed people to remain in a lower portion of the expense
scale. He stressed the importance of supporting people who
were doing the work themselves. He spoke about caregivers
helping with dementia and those caring for children with
disabilities. The funding added in the amendment would
support the effort. He noted that each Alaskan would
eventually face similar situation. He noted that similar
programs simply supported the efforts of other people. He
opined that the efforts were cost effective and added to
the quality of life for all Alaskans. He added that the
program expansion would allow more seniors and people in
need to benefit from the services. He urged the support of
the committee.
3:19:32 PM
Vice-Chair Neuman agreed that the program was important to
Alaskan seniors and was funded at $1,026,600. The amendment
included additional funds that were not requested by the
department. He referred to current budget restraints. He
requested that members vote against the amendment.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Gara, Guttenberg
OPPOSED: Munoz, Neuman, Thompson, Edgmon, Wilson, Costello,
Holmes, Stoltze, Austerman
The MOTION FAILED (2/9).
3:21:42 PM
AT EASE
3:22:41 PM
RECONVENED
Co-Chair Austerman thanked the committee for their hard
work. He stated that the CS with incorporated amendments
would be available in the morning with the final bill. He
spoke about prior years' 7.2 percent average growth of the
state operating budget. The goal in 2013 was for zero
growth as recommended by the governor. In 2014 the governor
proposed a $30 million cut to the operational agencies. The
CS reflected an approximately $50 million reduction from FY
14's budget. He stressed the need to get a handle on
overall spending. The budget in front of the committee was
a portion of the overall budget. He pointed out that the FY
13 budget was $1.3 billion. Last year's capital budget was
reduced to $798 million. He anticipated a budget in the
$500 million range.
Co-Chair Austerman recalled predictions that a correction
for $1 billion shortfall would be indicated in FY 15, when
the shortfall was indeed $2.3 billion. He stressed the need
to get a hold of the budgets to move the process forward
and avoid accessing another funding source.
3:26:34 PM
Representative Guttenberg thanked Co-Chair Austerman for
forcing the issue of slowing the growth of government. He
believed that government should be doing what the people
need with the greatest efficiency. He acknowledged that
Vice-Chair Neuman had a difficult job chairing the
Department of Health and Social Services and the Department
of Transportation and Public Facilities subcommittees.
3:27:42 PM
Vice-Chair Neuman discussed the progressivity factor built
into the budget. He advocated for working together to brace
for the future. He expressed concern about effects of a
reduced budget to communities. He stated that control of
the operating budget would provide necessary funding for
infrastructure projects. He reviewed the message sent to
industry with an expanding operating budget. He wondered if
the state appeared as an attractive endeavor for the
industry. The state's bills were paid by resource
development. He hoped for larger projects in the state to
increase employment opportunities for Alaskans. He
discussed the effects on the family unit of a reduced
Department of Health and Social Services budget. He enjoyed
the challenge of working on the Department of Health and
Social Services budget.
3:32:16 PM
Representative Gara thanked the committee members for
working with the minority. He appreciated the good nature
of his fellow legislators.
Co-Chair Austerman expected closing comments from committee
members tomorrow.
Representative Wilson stated that obtaining data about the
Youth First Program was not her responsibility. She
expressed dismay about the lack of data provided by the
departments. She stated that decisions could be made based
on numbers or data regarding the effectiveness of programs.
She required accurate data regarding the effectiveness of
programs. She required better communication with the
departments. Without evidence of success, a program was
eligible for elimination.
3:37:06 PM
Co-Chair Stoltze MOVED to authorize the Division of
Legislative Finance and Legislative Legal Services to make
technical and conforming changes to both HB 266 and HB 267
to incorporate the amendments adopted today. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
ADJOURNMENT
3:38:29 PM
The meeting was adjourned at 3:38 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| HB 266 Public Testimony.pdf |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 |
| HB 266 COMPILED TESTIMONY.pdf |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 |
| HFIN HB 266 and HB267 testimony 3-3-14 Ecklund and Brown scripts.docx |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 HB 267 |
| HB 266 Public Testimony cont..PDF |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 |
| HB 266 HB 267 Operating Budget Amendments.pdf |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 HB 267 |
| HB 266 HB 267 Budget Amendments with ACTIONS.pdf |
HFIN 3/11/2014 1:30:00 PM |
HB 266 HB 267 |