Legislature(2021 - 2022)GRUENBERG 120
04/02/2021 08:00 AM House LABOR & COMMERCE
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Board of Examiners in Optometry | |
| HB126 | |
| Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors | |
| Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy | |
| Board of Dental Examiners | |
| Board of Examiners in Optometry | |
| Board of Marital & Family Therapy | |
| Board of Professional Counselors | |
| Board of Psychologist & Psychological Examiners | |
| Board of Social Work Examiners | |
| Regulatory Commission of Alaska | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| *+ | HB 149 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| += | HB 126 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE LABOR AND COMMERCE STANDING COMMITTEE
April 2, 2021
8:06 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Ivy Spohnholz, Co-Chair
Representative Calvin Schrage
Representative Liz Snyder
Representative James Kaufman
Representative Ken McCarty (via teleconference)
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Zack Fields, Co-Chair
Representative David Nelson
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
Board of Examiners in Optometry
Pamela Steffes - Sitka
Michael Mavencamp - Fairbanks
- HEARD AND HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 126
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of Public
Accountancy; and providing for an effective date."
- MOVED HB 126 OUT OF COMMITTEE
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors
Jake Maxwell - Anchorage
Arpad "Bruce" Magyar - Anchorage
Catherine Fritz - Anchorage
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy
Nathan Missler - Anchorage
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Dental Examiners
Christina Hansen - Fairbanks
Greg Johnson - Fairbanks
Brad Heaston - Eagle River
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Marital & Family Therapy
Richard Clampitt - Palmer
Joy Collins - Anchorage
Kayla Green - Eagle River
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Professional Counselors
Sammie O'Neil - Eagle River
Eleanor Vinson - Juneau
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Psychologist & Psychological Examiners
Bernard Gatewood - Fairbanks
Dr. Sherri Scott - Anchorage
Dr. Bradley McConnell - Anchorage
- HEARD AND HELD
Board of Social Work Examiners
Brandon Ercanbrack - Kotzebue
- HEARD AND HELD
Regulatory Commission of Alaska
Bob Pickett - Palmer
Keith Kurber - Fairbanks
- HEARD AND HELD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: HB 126
SHORT TITLE: EXTEND BOARD OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTANCY
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) THOMPSON
03/05/21 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/05/21 (H) L&C, FIN
03/31/21 (H) L&C AT 3:15 PM BARNES 124
03/31/21 (H) Heard & Held
03/31/21 (H) MINUTE(L&C)
04/02/21 (H) L&C AT 8:00 AM GRUENBERG 120
WITNESS REGISTER
PAMELA STEFFES, Appointee
Board of Examiners in Optometry
Sitka, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Examiners in Optometry.
CRISTA BURSON, President and CEO
Alaska Society of Certified Public Accountants
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 126.
JAKE MAXWELL, Appointee
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors.
ARPAD "BRUCE" MAGYAR, Appointee
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors.
CATHERINE FRITZ, Appointee
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors.
NATHAN MISSLER, Appointee
Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy.
CHRISTINA HANSEN, Appointee
Board of Dental Examiners
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Dental Examiners.
GREG JOHNSON, Appointee
Board of Dental Examiners
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Dental Examiners.
BRAD HEASTON, Appointee
Board of Dental Examiners
Eagle River, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Dental Examiners.
MICHAEL MAVENCAMP, Appointee
Board of Examiners in Optometry
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Examiners in Optometry.
RICHARD CLAMPITT, Appointee
Board of Marital & Family Therapy
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Marital & Family Therapy.
JOY COLLINS, Appointee
Board of Marital & Family Therapy
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Marital & Family Therapy.
KAYLA GREEN, Appointee
Board of Marital & Family Therapy
Eagle River, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Marital & Family Therapy.
SAMMIE O'NEIL, Appointee
Board of Professional Counselors
Eagle River, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Professional Counselors.
ELEANOR VINSON, Appointee
Board of Professional Counselors
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Professional Counselors.
BERNARD GATEWOOD, Appointee
Board of Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners.
DR. SHERRI SCOTT, Appointee
Board of Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners.
DR. BRADLEY MCCONNELL, Appointee
Board of Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Psychologist & Psychological Associate Examiners.
BRANDON ERCANBRACK, Appointee
Board of Social Work Examiners
Kotzebue, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Board of
Social Work Examiners.
BOB PICKETT, Appointee
Regulatory Commission of Alaska
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Regulatory
Commission of Alaska.
KEITH KURBER, Appointee
Regulatory Commission of Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke as an appointee to the Regulatory
Commission of Alaska.
VERI DI SUVERO, Executive Director
Alaska Public Interest Research Group
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during the hearing on the
governor's appointees to the Regulatory Commission of Alaska.
ACTION NARRATIVE
8:06:10 AM
CO-CHAIR IVY SPOHNHOLZ called the House Labor and Commerce
Standing Committee meeting to order at 8:06 a.m.
Representatives Spohnholz, Schrage, and Snyder were present at
the call to order. Representative McCarty (via teleconference)
and Representative Kaufman arrived as the meeting was in
progress.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
^Board of Examiners in Optometry
Board of Examiners in Optometry
8:07:27 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the first order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointee to the Board
of Examiners in Optometry.
8:07:41 AM
PAMELA STEFFES, Appointee, Board of Examiners in Optometry,
informed the committee that she has served for five years on the
Board of Examiners in Optometry. She noted that the documents
in the committee packet were submitted for her 2020
consideration, and that her updated information includes an
updated Alaska optometry license, valid through 2022. She said
that she has practiced for 22 years at the Southeast Alaska
Regional Healthcare Consortium (SEARHC) facility in Sitka, and
expressed that, as a hospital-based optometrist, she has a
slightly different perspective from optometrists in private
practice. She described her work on the board guiding
optometrists to safely practice, as well as renew their
licenses, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Examiners in
Optometry was held over.]
HB 126-EXTEND BOARD OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTANCY
8:09:07 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be HOUSE BILL NO. 126, "An Act extending the termination
date of the Board of Public Accountancy; and providing for an
effective date."
8:09:53 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on HB 126.
8:10:06 AM
CRISTA BURSON, President and CEO, Alaska Society of Certified
Public Accountants, stated that the Alaska Society of Certified
Public Accountants (AKCPA) supports HB 126, characterizing the
Board of Public Accountancy as serving the public's interest and
providing regular oversight of accountants in Alaska. She
expressed that the board is inclusive of all interested parties,
and that the AKCPA and the board have a positive, collaborative
relationship.
8:11:30 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE moved to report HB 126 out of committee
with individual recommendations and the accompanying fiscal
notes. There being no objection, HB 126 was reported out of the
House Labor and Commerce Standing Committee.
8:11:53 AM
The committee took an at-ease from 8:11 a.m. to 8:14 a.m.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
^Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land
Surveyors
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors
8:14:18 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the State
Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land
Surveyors.
8:14:45 AM
JAKE MAXWELL, Appointee, Board of Registration for Architects,
Engineers & Land Surveyors, told the committee that he has been
appointed for the land surveyor's seat and that he has worked as
a land surveyor for the past 18 years. He described being well-
versed in the field and office operations of land surveying, and
characterized himself as having a solid understanding of the
guidelines and standards applied at federal, state, and local
levels. He said that he has served on the board of directors of
the Alaska Professional Design Council, during which he learned
about some of the issues surrounding other professional
societies. He stated his belief that his experience would add
value and a helpful perspective to the board.
8:15:59 AM
ARPAD "BRUCE" MAGYAR, Appointee, Board of Registration for
Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors, said that as a public
member of the board, he hopes to bring his experience in the
public and private sector. He described his experience as a
heavy equipment operator, followed by a career in pharmaceutical
sales, and was selected to oversee the development of a home
health care business. Upon retirement, he said, he moved to
Florida where he spent 12 years being active in the local U.S.
Coast Guard facility. In total, he said, he's lived in 10
states and had 23 homes, and he expressed that each move
required creative problem solving skills, which is why he feels
he has the unique experience needed to contribute to the board.
8:18:43 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE noted that on Mr. Magyar's application of
interest he didn't select this particular board to serve on.
MR. MAGYAR said that his contribution would be experience in
business, as well as in handling personnel, projects, and
budgets. He said that he was successful in three states in
advocating for legislation advantageous to the pharmaceutical
industry.
8:20:20 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted Mr. Magyar had applied to be on the
Alaska Marine Highway System workgroup, and if that wasn't
available, she said, he requested to be on the Board of Marine
Pilots, the Alaska Boating Safety Advisory Council, the Alaska
Board of Pharmacy, the Alaska Seismic Hazards Safety Commission,
or the Board of Fisheries. She reiterated Representative
Schrage's observation that nowhere did he express interest in
serving on the Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers &
Land Surveyors. She asked whether he spoke with the Office of
Boards and Commissions.
MR. MAGYAR responded that he had applied for the Alaska Marine
Highway System workgroup a year ago but did not receive an
answer. Some months later he received a call from the Office of
the Governor to serve on the Board of Registration for
Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked what interests Mr. Magyar most about
serving on this board, given that he would be learning about the
industry.
MR. MAGYAR mentioned an individual who moved to Georgia and
discussed perceptions of life in Alaska. He talked about the
cost of living and the importance of good-paying jobs.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ said that the Board of Nursing had difficulty
recruiting someone into the position because the compensation
didn't match the level of education that was required, and the
solution proposed by the administration was to reduce the level
of education instead of increase compensation.
8:26:02 AM
CATHERINE FRITZ, Appointee, Board of Registration for
Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors, informed the committee
that she is an architect and has been appointed to serve a
second term on the board. Her career has been in public
service, she said, most recently as the architect for Juneau
International Airport. She described her work involving the
planning and organizing aspects of drafting the strategic plan,
ensuring that each meeting proceeds in a manner consistent with
the board's mission, and studying the regulatory needs as well
as health, safety, and welfare. She said that it's been an
honor and a privilege to serve on the board.
8:27:55 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the appointees to
the Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers & Land
Surveyors. After ascertaining that no one wished to testify,
she closed public testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Registration
for Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors was held over.]
^Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy
Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy
8:28:04 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointee for the Board
of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy.
8:28:24 AM
NATHAN MISSLER, Appointee, Board of Physical Therapy &
Occupational Therapy, said that he has been an Occupational
Therapist for five years with experience in outpatient
orthopedics, as well as in academics at the University of Alaska
Anchorage. He expressed the desire to be on the board in order
to work on current issues such as telemedicine, continuing
educations, and safety in Alaska's communities.
8:29:32 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the appointee to
the Board of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy. After
ascertaining that no one wished to testify, she closed public
testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Physical
Therapy & Occupational Therapy was held over.]
^Board of Dental Examiners
Board of Dental Examiners
8:29:38 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees for the
Board of Dental Examiners.
8:30:00 AM
CHRISTINA HANSEN, Appointee, Board of Dental Examiners, informed
the committee that she has been a dental hygienist for six years
and was a dental assistant for 20 years. She said that she
works in the office of a dental hygienist and teaches dental
assisting at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She said that
she would like to bring her experience and a "gentle voice" to
the board.
8:31:19 AM
GREG JOHNSON, Appointee, Board of Dental Examiners, said that he
has been a licensed dentist in Alaska since 1986 and has worked
as a pediatric dentist for most of his career. He explained
that he recently served as the Chief Medical Officer at
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital Denali Center, serving as the Chief
Executive Officer during the transition to Foundation Health
Partners. He said that he has participated on the Medical Care
Advisory Committee for Medicaid.
8:32:39 AM
The committee took an at-ease from 8:32 a.m. to 8:37 a.m.
8:37:09 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked the appointees their opinion on the
advanced practice permit for dental hygienists which would be
created under HB 111.
8:38:01 AM
DR. JOHNSON answered that he would need to know more about the
proposed legislation.
8:38:46 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE pointed out that Dr. Johnson indicated on
his application that he would not be willing to provide a
personal financial disclosure. He asked Dr. Johnson for the
reason.
DR. JOHNSON answered that he finds it intrusive for the purpose
of this board and pointed out that he hasn't been audited. He
said that "those types of questions will oftentimes limit
commoners ... from stepping forward."
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE said that the concern is not malfeasance,
but conflicts of interest. He said that the forms are generic,
asking for businesses the appointee has been involved with, as
well as broad compensation brackets. He expressed concern that
Dr. Johnson was not willing to disclose.
DR. JOHNSON replied that he wouldn't have a problem with generic
and minor reporting, and he pointed out that he has completed
conflict of interest and codes of ethics forms.
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE noted that the committee would find out
whether financial disclosures are required for the Board of
Dental Examiners.
8:41:26 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ stated that the disclosure is fairly generic.
She then read the Public Official Financial Disclosure statute,
AS 39.50.010(b), which read as follows:
(b) The people of the State of Alaska declare that
(1) public office is a public trust that should
be free from the danger of conflict of interest;
(2) the public has a right to know of the
financial and business interests of persons who seek
or hold public office;
(3) a compelling state interest requires that
candidates for office and office holders disclose
their personal and business financial interests;
(4) reasonable disclosure requirements do not
violate an individual's right to privacy when the
individual seeks or holds public office and a
compelling state interest in the disclosure exists;
and
(5) reasonable disclosure requirements do not
have the effect of chilling the exercise of the right
of a qualified person to seek or hold public office.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted that a board or commission is a public
trust, and those serving on them are asked to make decisions
affecting people's livelihoods. She encouraged Dr. Johnson to
look at the public disclosure process.
8:42:59 AM
REPRESENTATIVE KAUFMAN mentioned that AS 39.50.200 does not
specifically list the Board of Dental Examiners and said that
it's worth checking.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted that financial disclosures are
something commonly done as a matter of best practice.
REPRESENTATIVE KAUFMAN said, "Increasingly, though, people are
becoming more and more aware and alarmed at privacy. It's a big
issue out in the world, with the Internet, information, and the
flow of it, so I can respect it."
8:44:09 AM
DR. JOHNSON stated his agreement with the statutes, as written,
and said the operative word is "reasonable." He said, "If it's
reasonable, I'll absolutely fill it out, no questions asked."
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ thanked Dr. Johnson and noted that it's
"fairly generic" in nature.
8:44:45 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY expressed agreement with Co-Chair
Spohnholz' statements.
8:45:19 AM
BRAD HEASTON, Appointee, Board of Dental Examiners, explained
that his background consists of information technology
management and that he is a Microsoft systems certified engineer
and a certified Health Insurance Portability and Accountability
Act (HIPAA) security professional. He stated that he would
bring a pragmatic approach to troubleshooting and experience
with HIPAA policies, procedures, and security risk assessment to
the board.
8:46:53 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the appointees to
the Board of Dental Examiners. There being no one who wished to
testify, she closed public testimony.
8:47:14 AM
The committee took a brief at-ease.
8:47:46 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ informed committee members that Sara Chambers
with the Department of Commerce, Community, & Economic
Development (DCCED) said that appointees to the Board of Dental
Examiners are not required to adhere to the disclosure
requirements under AS 39.50.010(b), although it is a "best
practice."
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Dental
Examiners was held over.]
^Board of Examiners in Optometry
Board of Examiners in Optometry
8:48:31 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the Board
of Examiners in Optometry.
8:48:44 AM
MICHAEL MAVENCAMP, Appointee, Board of Examiners in Optometry,
informed the committee that he is a partner in a private
optometry practice, where he has practiced for the past 15
years. He expressed that his nomination is an opportunity to
continue the good work done by the board and to give back to
Alaska and to his profession.
8:49:26 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the appointee to
the Board of Examiners of Optometry. After ascertaining that no
one wished to testify, she closed public testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointee to the Board of Examiners of
Optometry was held over.]
^Board of Marital & Family Therapy
Board of Marital & Family Therapy
8:49:51 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the Board
of Marital & Family Therapy.
8:50:07 AM
RICHARD CLAMPITT, Appointee, Board of Marital & Family Therapy,
said that he's retired from the Alaska Air National Guard and is
licensed as a professional counselor as well as a marital and
family therapist, serving as the supervisor for people who are
seeking licensure in Alaska. He expressed interest in doing his
"part," both as a citizen and a professional.
8:51:01 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked Mr. Clampitt what is important in
encouraging the profession of marriage and family therapy in the
state.
MR. CLAMPITT replied that there are not enough providers for the
need, especially in the rural communities. He said that
learning how to use telehealth resources more effectively would
be helpful.
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked Mr. Clampitt what he knows about
the relationship between providers and the Medicaid population.
MR. CLAMPITT responded that he does not know any provider who
has served the Medicaid population.
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY expressed curiosity about that lack of
service.
MR. CLAMPITT replied that he would be glad to look into the
issue.
8:53:58 AM
JOY COLLINS, Appointee, Board of Marital & Family Therapy,
informed the board that she has a master's degree in psychology
with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy, and is a
registered play therapist. She said that she would like to be a
voice and advocate for her colleagues, and she characterized
herself as a person of strong ethics and integrity who will look
at issues from the client's perspective as well as the
therapist's. She expressed that she has the ability to be
objective and impartially weigh evidence before making a
decision.
8:54:34 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked Ms. Collins what she would bring to
the board as far as diversity.
MS. COLLINS answered that she works with children through play
therapy, along with the marriage and family therapy roles. In
response to Representative McCarty, she explained that play
therapy is a great way for parents to understand children, and
for children to express themselves. She pointed out that
children don't have developed speech communication or cognition,
so play is a great way for adults to meet children at their own
level.
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY expressed that he has "high regards" for
play therapists and thanked Ms. Collins for her work.
8:56:48 AM
KAYLA GREEN, Appointee, Board of Marital & Family Therapy, told
the board about her children's educational levels and said that
she has worked in health care for two years at North Star
Behavioral Health and the Southcentral Foundation. She talked
about her activism and community service.
8:58:13 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked Ms. Green whether she has thoughts
about reducing licensing costs.
MS. GREEN replied that she would like to see a reduction in
costs for the majority of licensees, and said that she would
like to know how the license cost was decided. She said that
during the COVID-19 pandemic the focus has been on getting
people licensed, as well as focusing on online continuing
education.
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY shared the understanding that many states
are considering grouping together all of the state boards
governing matters of behavioral science. He asked Ms. Green
whether she has thoughts on that.
MS. GREEN said that she would need to have more information.
9:02:16 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Ms. Green to clarify her answer to
Representative McCarty's earlier question.
MS. GREEN responded that she was talking about reducing the fee,
and expressed that making continuing education more available
would be a positive change.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ pointed out that licensing fees pay for the
operation of the board, and suggested that Ms. Green look at the
previous sunset audit to acquaint herself with the finances.
She then noted Ms. Green's mention of changes over the past year
that she opined should be made permanent, and asked Ms. Green
for a specific example.
MS. GREEN responded that online continuing education would be a
good permanent change.
9:03:21 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the governor's
appointees to the Board of Marital & Family Therapy. After
ascertaining that no one wished to testify, she closed public
testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Marital &
Family Therapy was held over.]
^Board of Professional Counselors
Board of Professional Counselors
9:03:38 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the Board
of Professional Counselors.
9:03:59 AM
SAMMIE O'NEIL, Appointee, Board of Professional Counselors, said
that he is a retired veteran who has worked in the field of
professional counseling for 10 years, and recently obtained his
license and started his practice. He expressed interest in
learning more about the process and regulations.
9:05:29 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY asked Mr. O'Neill what he, as a new
licensee, sees himself as being able to contribute to the board.
MR. O'NEIL replied that he would like to make the process more
flexible, and expressed that there need to be mentors and
support for those who want to be in the field.
9:07:31 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Mr. O'Neill which Salvation Army
program he worked at.
MR. O'NEILL replied that he worked at the Clitheroe Center.
9:07:51 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE asked Mr. O'Neill whether anything in Mr.
O'Neil's past would disqualify him for board service.
MR. O'NEIL answered, "No."
9:08:10 AM
ELEANOR VINSON, Appointee, Board of Professional Counselors,
informed that committee that she has lived in Valdez, Barrow,
and Juneau, and expressed that her experience has helped her
understand the diversity and challenges facing the people in
Alaska. She said that has worked with the Board of Architects,
Engineers and Surveyors, Board of Marital & Family Therapy,
Board of Social Workers, Board of Professional Counseling, and
Board of Nursing. She said that she has a strong background for
understanding boards. She pointed out that she has served on
the Board of Professional Counselors for one term and would like
to continue. She expressed that a continuation of knowledge is
"badly needed," considering staff turnover in combination with
the number of new licenses being issued.
9:09:36 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY told Ms. Vinson, "You rock." He noted
that Ms. Vinson's reputation precedes her and characterized her
as a professional with a wealth of information.
9:10:38 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the governor's
appointees to the Board of Professional Counselors. After
ascertaining that no one wished to testify, she closed public
testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Professional
Counselors was held over.]
^Board of Psychologist & Psychological Examiners
Board of Psychologist & Psychological Examiners
9:10:51 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the Board
of Psychologist & Psychological Examiners
9:11:05 AM
BERNARD GATEWOOD, Appointee, Board of Psychologist &
Psychological Associate Examiners, informed the board that he
has a master's degree in counseling, with a bachelor's degree in
sociology, and that he has over 30 years in public service
experience including juvenile corrections, mental health,
nonprofit oversight, and local politics. He said that he worked
in the Division of Juvenile Justice for 16 years, with oversight
responsibility in several facilities. He said he has been a
trustee on the Fairbanks Community Hospital Foundation, a board
member on the Alaska Community Foundation, and works with the
school district. He spoke of terms of licensure and the work
done by the Board of Psychologist & Psychological Associate
Examiners.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ thanked Mr. Gatewood for his extensive
service.
9:14:00 AM
DR. SHERRI SCOTT, Appointee, Board of Psychologist &
Psychological Associate Examiners, said that she would be the
licensed psychological associate representative on the board,
and that she has provided 30 years of continuous behavior health
service in Alaska. She said that she has advanced education and
specialized training, along with knowledge and experience in the
field, mostly as a clinical supervisor. She described providing
services as a licensed independent practitioner and said that
she is familiar with both urban and rural issues in Alaska. She
noted that she has a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
and a Master of Arts in Global Leadership, and a Doctorate in
Intercultural Studies with an emphasis in Leadership
Development.
9:16:01 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Dr. Scott whether she completed her
doctorate.
DR. SCOTT replied that she did.
9:16:15 AM
DR. BRADLEY MCCONNELL, Appointee, Board of Psychologists &
Psychological Associate Examiners, informed the committee that
he is a board-certified clinical psychologist, with a master's
and doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a post-doctoral degree
in Clinical Psychopharmacology. He said that he's worked in
mental health at the Veteran's Administration, university
counseling, and the Department of Corrections. He currently
serves as the staff psychologist at the Copper River Native
Association. He expressed the belief that mental health
services are something urgently needed in Alaska, and that
Alaska has been a national leader in providing mental health
services during the COVID-19 pandemic through the program
allowing out-of-state psychologist to temporarily provide
services under the emergency courtesy license. He said that
Alaska has 48 active emergency courtesy licenses, two regular
courtesy licenses, and 315 active licensees. He said that he
would like to serve on the board to support "home-grown"
psychologists in Alaska, as many psychologists who trained in
Alaska don't return after their internship.
9:18:43 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCARTY expressed agreement with efforts to get
more psychological professionals in Alaska and asked Dr.
McConnell if he had any ideas for incentives.
DR. MCCONNELL responded that he thinks there could be expansions
of incentives like loan repayment and a revision of State of
Alaska salaries, considering the cost of living. He expressed
that the Board of Psychologists & Psychological Examiners should
do more to support the specific needs of psychologists as mental
health practitioners.
9:21:01 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ pointed out the number of people who
commented during testimony on the possibility of merging the
boards that deal with mental health.
9:22:02 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the governor's
appointees to the Board of Psychologist & Psychological
Associate Examiners. After ascertaining that no one wished to
testify, she closed public testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Board of Psychologist
& Psychological Associate Examiners was held over.]
^Board of Social Work Examiners
Board of Social Work Examiners
9:22:15 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the next order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointee to the Board
of Social Work Examiners.
9:22:24 AM
BRANDON ERCANBRACK, Appointee, Board of Social Work Examiners,
said that he is a licensed clinical social worker who has been
practicing for almost 10 years, but has had some form of social
work license since 2008. He talked about his time already
served on the board, saying that he sees both challenges and
opportunities for improvement. He highlighted the way social
workers in Alaska have operated during the COVID-19 pandemic,
dealing with people's emotional needs. He said he wants to
continue serving on the board to figure out "how to do things
smarter, not harder" and expressed the need for more licensed
social work professionals.
9:24:53 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE noted that Mr. Ercanbrack is an Eagle
Scout.
9:25:09 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Mr. Ercanbrack whether he is working at
Maniilaq Health Center.
MR. ERCANBRACK replied that he is, as the clinical supervisor
for the Counseling and Recovery Center.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Mr. Ercanbrack how long he has been in
Kotzebue.
MR. ERCANBRACK said that he went to Kotzebue in 2017 for one
year, moved to Seward, and has most recently been back in
Kotzebue for a year and a half. He expressed being able to
share the perspective of social workers who work off of the road
system and with the tribal health organizations.
9:26:35 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the governor's
appointee to the Board of Social Work Examiners. After
ascertaining that no one wished to testify, she closed public
testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointee to the Board of Social Work
Examiners was held over.]
^Regulatory Commission of Alaska
Regulatory Commission of Alaska
9:26:46 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ announced that the final order of business
would be consideration of the governor's appointees to the
Regulatory Commission of Alaska.
9:26:52 AM
BOB PICKETT, Appointee, Regulatory Commission of Alaska, said he
is the current chair of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska
(RCA) and has been a commissioner since 2008. He described his
background in Alaska, noting that he has worked as a surveyor in
Southeast Alaska, Valdez, and the Copper River Valley. He said
that prior to his service on the commission, he spent 21 years
managing statewide programs for the Alaska Housing Finance
Corporation (AHFC).
9:28:43 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE asked Mr. Pickett his thoughts about
prerequisites and technical knowledge needed for effective
service on the RCA.
MR. PICKETT answered that different commissioners bring
different strengths, and working with technical issues is a big
part of the work. He said the commissioners must be able to
sort out questions of engineering, finance, or regulatory law,
giving the appropriate weight to the evidence.
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE asked how important it is that every
member has the ability to comprehend technical information.
MR. PICKETT answered, "It is important. If they don't have it
at the time they begin with the commission, trust me, they will
learn it."
9:30:39 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked Mr. Pickett to update the committee
about the progress of the Railbelt Reliability Council (RRC).
MR. PICKETT replied that there are currently three rule-making
dockets open. He explained that in 2014, the legislature
directed RCA to look at the state railbelt grid and the
interconnected electric utilities. He noted that Alaska has no
mandatory reliability standards. He said that the commission
made its recommendations on July 1, 2015, and underpinning all
of its recommendations was the realization that it would be
better if the utilities could come to a consensus instead of
there being a "top down" imposition from RCA or legislature. He
said the commission is nearing the end of the rule-making
portion and will continue working.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ expressed optimism about RRC. She then
pointed out that RCA is described in statute as having members
who are in good standing with the Alaska Bar Association or have
either achieved a degree from an accredited college or
university in finance, economics, accounting, business
administration, or public administration or have equivalent
experience in those fields. She asked Mr. Pickett his opinion
on the importance of those specific requirements when
considering appointees to the commission.
MR. PICKETT responded that the education or experience is
important, but that the capacity to learn, as well as
communication skills and the ability to work cooperatively with
other commissioners, tends to be overlooked.
9:35:52 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted that the staff at RCA tends to be very
technical, including administrative logistics, engineers,
financial analysts, telecommunications specialists, and other
technical positions. She asked Mr. Pickett how important he
believes it is to have concrete experience in these areas.
MR. PICKETT said that having experience can shorten the learning
curve, but no matter what someone's background is, it's like
"learning how to drink out of a firehose." He stated his belief
that the analogy exists for anyone serving on the commission.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted that the commission is complex and
pointed out that unlike the positions on some of the other
boards, service on the commission is a full time job. She asked
Mr. Pickett to discuss the scope of RCA.
MR. PICKETT explained that to the public, the most obvious
issues are the electric utilities and the rate regulation of the
regulated utilities. He said that there are about 120
certificated electric utilities in Alaska, and RCA regulates 33
of them, remaining engaged with the rest through the power cost
equalization program to help them stay in compliance so they
remain eligible for the program. He said that RCA also
regulates water and sewer utilities, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline
concurrently with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and
the intrastate pipelines in Cook Inlet. He talked about
evaluating gas supply agreements, the Cook Inlet natural gas
storage facility, and RCA's limited regulatory authority over
the telecommunications industry. He said he's heard concerns
about broadband access regulation and opined that RCA may engage
with that in the future.
9:40:34 AM
DR. KEITH KURBER, Appointee, Regulatory Commission of Alaska,
said that he has almost 30 years of service in the U.S. Army,
split between active duty, the National Guard, and the Reserves,
including three wartime mobilizations. He said that he's
pastored several churches and worked in public safety at the
Fairbanks International Airport as a police and fire officer.
His formal education was heavily weighted toward engineering,
science, and math, he said, and he has a Master of
Organizational Leadership and a Ph.D. in Ministry. He said that
he wants to serve on RCA so he can use his combination of
training and life experience to serve his state, and that his
experience making critical decisions under severe pressure would
be beneficial.
9:43:38 AM
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE asked Dr. Kurber if he would be willing
to share a detailed breakdown of his educational transcripts.
DR. KURBER answered that he would.
REPRESENTATIVE SCHRAGE asked Dr. Kurber to submit his
transcripts.
DR. KURBER noted that he had previously sent his transcripts to
Senators Revak and Kiehl and would be happy to submit them to
the committee.
9:45:24 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked if Dr. Kurber would be comfortable with
the committee sharing [his transcripts] with other legislators.
DR. KURBER replied yes.
9:46:25 AM
REPRESENTATIVE KAUFMAN commented on Dr. Kurber's range of
military experience and pointed out that everything involved in
an integrated military operation, such as logistics, supply
chain management, and procurement, may not be fully understood.
He asked Dr. Kurber to discuss how multi-disciplined the
operations were.
DR. KURBER, in response, offered an example from 2009. He
explained that the military was directed to "surge" forces out
of cycle deployment to bolster the efforts in Afghanistan. As
deputy commander, he was deployed to Kabul with a team tasked
with securing additional funding to increase the military
presence in the country, as well as working with the local
population in procuring acreage, potable water, and engineering
necessities to build operational structures "from the ground
up."
REPRESENTATIVE KAUFMAN pointed out that those in the military
readily understand the multidisciplinary aspects of
mobilization, supply chain management, and project management.
9:51:32 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ discussed utilities monopolies and the desire
to reduce the "Balkanization" of utilities. She asked Dr.
Kurber about the elements of the Railbelt Reliability Council
important to controlling spending, and what kind of regulations
he believes should be in place to ensure that utilities "don't
go on further spending sprees."
DR. KURBER noted the many conversations between 2014 and the
creation of the Railbelt Reliability Council, and said that
there was work on the railbelt during that time, which he noted
is continuing. He said that the stakeholders in Alaska's
utilities are not waiting for findings to be returned, so it's
incumbent on RCA to get their findings done and ready for legal
review. He said that getting an application process in place
should be a good first step towards solving the issues
identified by Mr. Pickett.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ asked about Dr. Kurber's thoughts on the
issue of economic dispatch for utilities on the railbelt.
DR. KURBER responded that there is always an effort to purchase
the most energy available at a reasonable price, so the economic
dispatch leads to the ability to provide a ratepayer with the
lowest-priced energy available. He said he believes that with
the legislative remedy, coupled with the regulations which are
being worked on by RCA, the average ratepayer should get the
best rate possible.
9:58:01 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ said that a notable part of the creation of
the Railbelt Reliability Council was that it didn't include
economic dispatch, and that economic dispatch is not commonly
happening in Alaska. She asked Dr. Kurber how he would advance
the cause of improving economic dispatch in the state.
DR. KURBER responded that RCA will focus on meeting
implementation demands, especially with respect to integrative
resource planning along with the development, certification, and
regulation of the electric reliability organization (ERO). He
discussed targeting the security of critical infrastructure and
the electricity grid, as well as ensuring the cooperatives are
providing service that is safe, consistent, continuous, and of
the lowest possible cost.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ said that in testimony on Senate Bill 123,
during the Thirty-First Alaska State Legislature, the Electric
Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) was touted as "a model for
the state of Alaska." She asked Dr. Kurber in which ways he
sees ERCOT being a model for Alaska, and what lessons Alaska
could learn from the electrical crisis in Texas.
DR. KURBER recalled hearing "we're unique up here" upon his
arrival in Alaska, and spoke of the "island" mentality. He said
that what any electricity reliability organization needs to take
into account is "the peculiarity of what might be your 'disaster
day,' what could be the worst thing" to happen. In the case of
some states, he said, it could be the "500-year flood." He said
that because of Alaska's extremes in weather and geology, Alaska
is already ready in terms of disaster preparedness. He said
that even though ERCOT has been touted as a model for Alaska,
any reliability organization development will be "Alaskan in
flavor," deriving the best practices from other organizations
around the country.
10:05:34 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ noted that during the disaster in Texas, the
governor blamed the shutdown on renewable energy, which he said
couldn't "handle the cold weather." She asked Dr. Kurber
whether he believes renewable energy is an unsafe investment in
Alaska.
DR. KURBER said he is getting a "crash course" in renewable
energy and that he doesn't feel qualified to answer.
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ said that in Southeast Alaska, 99 percent of
the energy comes from hydro renewable projects, and in many
parts of rural Alaska there are renewable energy projects, such
as wind turbines in Kotzebue. She pointed out the long track
record of renewable energy working "very effectively" in the
state.
10:09:51 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ opened public testimony on the governor's
appointees to the Regulatory Commission of Alaska.
10:09:57 AM
VERI DI SUVERO, Executive Director, Alaska Public Interest
Research Group, said that the Alaska Public Interest Research
Group (AKPIRG) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization
advocating on behalf of consumers and the public interest. She
said that AKPIRG advocates for a variety of issues before RCA.
She noted that although she currently holds the consumer
advocacy position on RRC's Implementation Committee, she is
testifying as the representative of AKPIRG. She said that RCA
is the highest authority of power in electric distribution for
Alaska and its considerations carry extra weight. She pointed
out that it is critical that RCA commissioners have the
technical skills to fully consider matters within the purview of
the commission, and that to approve of an appointee who clearly
does not meet the technical qualifications under statute is a
disservice to Alaskans who would bear the ultimate burden in the
form of lasting regulations and energy costs. She encouraged
the committee to abide by those statutory conditions when
considering Dr. Kurber's appointment.
10:12:26 AM
CO-CHAIR SPOHNHOLZ, after ascertaining that no one else wished
to testify, closed public testimony.
[The confirmation on the appointees to the Regulatory Commission
of Alaska was held over.]
10:13:06 AM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Labor and Commerce Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at
10:13 a.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Brad Heaston Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
|
| Bernard Gatewood Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Brad Heaston Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Bradley McConnell Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Brandon Ercanbrack Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Brandon Ercanbrack Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Catherine Fritz Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Christina Hansen Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Dorene Hagen Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Eleanor Vinson Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Greg Johnson Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Jake Maxwell Resume 3.18.21.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Joy Collins Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Joy Collins Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Kayla Green Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Kayla Green Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Keith Kurber Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Keith Kurber Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Laura Patin Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Michael Mavencamp Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Mindy Swisher.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Nathan Missler Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Pamela Steffes Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Pamela Steffes Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Richard Clampitt Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Richard Clampitt Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Robert Pickett Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Sherri Scott Board Application.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Sherri Scott Resume.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Arpad Bruce Magyar Board Application 3.18.21.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Arpad Magyar Resume 3.18.21.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |
| Sammie O'Neal Resume_Redacted.pdf |
HL&C 4/2/2021 8:00:00 AM |
HL&C Confirmations 2021 |