Legislature(2007 - 2008)SENATE FINANCE 532
03/19/2008 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB265 | |
| SB285 | |
| HB310 || HB312 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 285 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | SB 265 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| += | HB 310 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | HB 312 | TELECONFERENCED | |
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
March 19, 2008
9:11 a.m.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Stedman called the Senate Finance Committee
meeting to order at 9:11:18 AM.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Lyman Hoffman, Co-Chair
Senator Bert Stedman, Co-Chair
Senator Kim Elton
Senator Donny Olson
Senator Joe Thomas
Senator Fred Dyson
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Charlie Huggins, Vice-Chair
ALSO PRESENT
Trevor Fulton, Staff, Senator Lesil McGuire; Peggy Brown,
Executive Director, Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and
Sexual Assault; Tim Lamkin, Staff, Senator Gary Stevens;
Eddy Jeans, Director, Education Support Services,
Department of Education and Early Development; Carl Rose,
Alaska Association of Alaska School Boards; Norman Eck,
Superintendent, Northwest Arctic Borough School District;
Tim Grussendorf, Staff, Co-Chair Hoffman; David Teal,
Director, Legislative Finance Division; Senator Thomas
Wagoner; Karen Rehfeld, Director, Office of Management and
Budget
PRESENT VIA TELECONFERENCE
None
SUMMARY
SB 265 "An Act relating to drivers' licenses and
identification cards issued to sex offenders and
child kidnappers."
SB 265 was HEARD and HELD in Committee for
further consideration.
SB 285 "An Act relating to the power and duties of the
Department of Education and Early Development for
improving instructional practices in school
districts; and providing for an effective date."
CSSB 285(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee with
a "do pass" recommendation, a Senate Finance
Letter of Intent, and a fiscal note by the
Department of Education & Early Development.
CSHB 310(FIN)am
"An Act making appropriations for the operating
and loan program expenses of state government,
for certain programs, and to capitalize funds;
making supplemental appropriations; and making
appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17(c),
Constitution of the State of Alaska; and
providing for an effective date."
SCS CSHB 310(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee
with a "do pass" recommendation.
CSHB 312 (FIN)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating
and capital expenses of the state's integrated
comprehensive mental health program; and
providing for an effective date."
SCS CSHB 312(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee
with a "do pass" recommendation.
9:11:56 AM
SENATE BILL NO. 265
"An Act relating to drivers' licenses and
identification cards issued to sex offenders and child
kidnappers."
Co-Chair Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT a committee substitute for
SB 265, work draft 25-LS1449\K.
Co-Chair Stedman OBJECTED for discussion purposes.
9:13:32 AM
TREVOR FULTON, STAFF, SENATOR LESIL MCGUIRE, presented an
overview of the bill. He explained that the bill combines
the resources of the Sex Offenders Registry with the
database of the Alaska Permanent Fund Division in order to
get out-of-compliance sex offenders to register. Mr.
Fulton observed that there is a ten to eleven percent non-
compliance rate within the Sex Offender Registry. The aim
of the bill is to withhold the Permanent Fund Dividend for
those non-compliant sex offenders. He asserted that the
Committee Substitute adds Sections 2-8, which allow the
private sector process servers, licensed by the
Commissioner of Public Safety, to submit their writs to the
Permanent Fund Dividend Division electronically. Mr.
Fulton explained that the writs are court orders to pay
Permanent Fund Dividend checks to the applicant's debtors.
He pointed out that the division processes over 35,000 of
these writs annually, each one submitted in person and
processed manually, adding a significant workload to
Permanent Fund personnel. Mr. Fulton proposed that the
added section would alleviate some of the workload and
expedite the entire process, allowing private sector
process servers to use the electronic option to decrease
the workload for division personnel.
Co-Chair Stedman WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, work draft 25-LS1499/K was adopted.
Senator Elton requested further clarification of the fiscal
notes.
9:18:41 AM
PEGGY BROWN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA NETWORK ON DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT, testified on behalf of the
bill and asserted that the network, which represents
nineteen-member programs throughout the state, approved
this bill. Ms. Brown elaborated that sex offender laws have
toughened in Alaska and SB 265 tries to firm compliance
issues regarding sex offenders. She reported that SB 265
would be beneficial to the state in more efficiently
trading information in the Sex Offender Registry, the
Department of Public Safety and the Permanent Fund Dividend
Division.
Co-Chair Stedman mentioned the Department of Public Safety
fiscal note for $38,000.
SB 265 was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further
consideration.
9:21:53 AM
SENATE BILL NO. 285
"An Act relating to the power and duties of the
Department of Education and Early Development for
improving instructional practices in school districts;
and providing for an effective date."
Co-Chair Stedman addressed the intent to adopt the
Committee Substitute, hear additional testimony, and move
the bill out of Committee.
Co-Chair Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT a committee substitute for
SB 285, work draft 25-LS1522\K.
Co-Chair Stedman OBJECTED for discussion purposes.
9:23:13 AM
Tim Lamkin, Staff, Senator Gary Stevens, presented an
overview of the Committee Substitute. He remarked that the
changes establish criteria under which the department may
intervene as necessary in a school district to improve
instructional practices. The regulations must include
(page 3, lines 15-25):
(A)a notice provision that alerts the district of the
deficiencies and the instructional practice changes
proposed by the department;
(B)an end date for departmental intervention after the
district demonstrates three consecutive years of
improvement consisting of not less than two percent
increases in student proficiency on standards-based
assessments in math, reading, and writing as provided
in AS 14.03.123(f)(2)(A); and
(C)a process for districts to petition the department
for continuing or discontinuing the department's
intervention.
Mr. Lamkin mentioned an additional change on page 5, lines
1-3, that specifies the department to direct decisions to
those with supervisory authority, not teachers. Page 5,
line 6, in regard to withholding funds, has been changed to
"redirect."
Co-Chair Stedman WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
further OBJECTION, the work draft 25-LS1522\K was adopted.
9:26:04 AM
Mr. Lamkin attributed this bill to the Moore vs. the State
of Alaska case. The judge in that case determined that
where schools were failing in math, reading, and writing
the Legislature was failing its constitutional mandate to
provide a meaningful opportunity to receive that education.
The bill attempts to give the department further delegated
authority to step in on behalf of the Legislature and
provide guidance to those districts to meet their
educational goals.
Senator Elton thanked the bill sponsor who went out of his
way to answer the previous concerns of the Committee. He
asked Mr. Jeans if anything in this bill would allow the
department to change a teacher's contract.
9:27:50 AM
EDDY JEANS, DIRECTOR, EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND EARLY DEVELOPMENT, replied that
there is nothing in the bill that would allow the
department to change a teacher's contract. The previously
mentioned portion, page 5 lines 1-3, mentioned that this
will only deal with supervisory personnel.
Senator Olson questioned if there was adequate funding for
the personnel who will intervene in the school districts.
Mr. Jeans remarked that the intent is to redirect the
instructional practices in reading, writing, and math to
involve collaborative meetings with the teachers, using the
state's online informative assessments, as well as
leadership training in the school or district. The
attached fiscal note provides for district coaches, not
counselors.
9:29:58 AM
Senator Olson asked for the department's plans for adding
personnel when it is necessary for the intervention.
Mr. Jeans replied that the department has not arrived at
that level of intervention, but believed the department
would work with the superintendent and the school board
before making those decisions.
Senator Thomas appreciated the additional information from
the department.
Co-Chair Stedman commented that this bill has been worked
on by the department since the last committee meeting.
9:31:14 AM
Senator Dyson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 1:
Page 4, after line 18, add new subparagraphs:
(14) assure that all school board members
(A) have adequate training defining the boards'
Responsibilities, authority, and assistance resources:
and
(B) have ready access to legal, business, and
accounting
Consulting and guidance assistance.
(15) assure that all school personnel and parents
have access to
Information about available education choices
including, but not limited to
(A) cyber schools;
(B) home schools;
(C) boarding schools;
(D) charter schools; and
(E) tutoring.
(16) assure school personnel and parents know how
to access the
Choices set forth in (15) above.
Co-Chair Stedman OBJECTED for discussion purposes.
Senator Dyson stressed the need for school boards to be
empowered throughout the state. He remarked that school
boards can often feel at the mercy of the school
administration and may not understand their authority and
responsibility. This amendment assures that school board
members have the training to understand their
responsibilities and authority. Senator Dyson believed in
the importance of school boards having access to legal and
accounting information. He specified that parents should
know their choices and how to access them under No Child
Left Behind.
9:35:32 AM
Mr. Lamkin considered the amendment suggestions already on
the books. He remarked that including these changes would
broaden the intent of the bill. The intent is for the
department to concentrate on the instructional practices in
school districts.
Mr. Jeans agreed that this bill was drafted very narrowly
to address the issues raised in the Moore trial case.
9:37:12 AM
Senator Olson asked Mr. Jeans if the department was in
favor of this amendment.
Mr. Jeans replied that the department was not in favor of
this amendment.
Senator Huggins inquired about the training the school
board receives.
9:38:00 AM
CARL ROSE, ALASKA ASSOCIATION OF ALASKA SCHOOL BOARDS,
appreciated the concern of the amendment. He believed that
the general population does not understand the function of
the school or school boards. He stressed that school
boards are elected but often work on a volunteer basis.
Mr. Rose believed that Alaska school boards were well
trained in their role to advocate for children in providing
a quality education with the focus on student achievement
through effective local governance.
9:40:25 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked Mr. Rose his opinion on the
amendment.
Mr. Rose believed that good training was already provided
to the school boards.
Senator Huggins proposed that training school boards were a
larger issue than covered by this bill. The bill was only
meant to deal with failing schools. Mr. Rose replied that
school boards are trained but when school districts have
been identified with problems, the association leadership
and governance components would be happy to cooperate.
Senator Elton considered the amendment a problem as it
could be read that the legislature was trying to supplant
the training role of the Association of School Boards and
shifting the training to the Department of Education. He
wondered if Mr. Rose might have the same concern.
9:42:43 AM
Mr. Rose agreed it concerned him. He believed a large part
of the association's responsibility is to fulfill the
mission of training school boards. He thought the
amendment could pass this role to the Department of
Education.
Senator Dyson agreed that most school board members are
doing a good job, but questioned if they really understood
their authority and training to confront a school
administration who may not be doing a good job. He
stressed that he wanted parents to have the training,
information and tools to be in control of local education.
Senator Dyson believed that some school boards are not
doing their job and are often actively seduced by the
school administration.
9:45:49 AM
Senator Thomas referred to page 1, line 13, of the bill
referring to "advisory and consultative services to all
public school governing bodies and personnel." He believed
this might answer some of the questions set forth in the
amendment.
Senator Huggins agreed with Senator Dyson about the
suggestions reflected in the amendment, but believed all
school boards should be involved, not just those in failing
schools.
9:47:24 AM
Senator Dyson believed it was clear in the amendment that
it refers to all school boards.
Co-Chair Stedman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to ADOPT Amendment
1.
IN FAVOR: Dyson
OPPOSED: Stedman, Hoffman, Olson, Huggins, Elkins, Thomas
The MOTION FAILED (1-6).
Senator Dyson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment 2:
Page 3, after line 11 add new subparagraph:
(16) audit schools for compliance with AS
14.33.120,and provide a
Report on the results to all parents of students in
the respective schools.
Co-Chair Stedman OBJECTED for discussion purposes.
9:49:15 AM
Senator Dyson reported that earlier legislation required
every school to go through a process with parents giving
them an opportunity to decide and direct the handling of
school disciplinary and safety issues. The collaborative
decisions would then become part of the school disciplinary
and safety standard. Senator Dyson maintained that most
schools ignore these decisions and very few are following
the law. He wanted to make sure that parents know about
this process.
Senator Elton referenced a part of the bill - page 3, line
9 - that required the reporting of information regarding
school disciplinary and safety programs. He commented that
there was no need for this amendment.
9:51:43 AM
Mr. Jeans answered that Senator Elton was correct that
there is already a requirement for reporting the
information to the department. The school boards are
required to adopt a written school disciplinary and safety
program and report any disciplinary action they took under
their program to the Department of Education.
Mr. Lamkin reiterated that this bill has been tightly
drafted to address a particular situation and he does not
think this amendment is relevant to the intent for the
bill.
9:53:40 AM
Senator Dyson requested an analysis from the department
showing that parents have participated in the school's
process for learning, disciplinary actions, or safety.
Co-Chair Stedman requested the Department of Education look
into Senator Dyson's questions and send the information to
the Committee.
Mr. Lamkin agreed to provide that information.
Senator Dyson stressed that this amendment just calls for
an audit and to make sure that parent's rights are
protected under the law.
Co-Chair Stedman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion to ADOPT Amendment
2.
IN FAVOR: Dyson
OPPOSED: Olsen, Thomas, Elton, Huggins, Stedman, Hoffman
The MOTION FAILED (1-6).
9:55:58 AM
Mr. Jeans referred to the fiscal note for $538,000 for the
intervention between school districts and $25,000 for
travel and supplies.
AT EASE: 9:56:35 AM
RECONVENED: 9:57:37 AM
Co-Chair Stedman requested that Mr. Jeans explained the
fiscal note to the operating budget.
Mr. Jeans reported that in the department's operating
budget there is a request in the House budget for $235,000
for school interventions, but it is not in the Senate
operating budget.
9:58:40 AM
NORMAN ECK, SUPERINTENDENT, NORTHWEST ARCTIC BOROUGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT, testified in support of SB 285. He thanked the
Committee for listening to the concerns voiced in his
letter (March 7, 2008, copy on file). He recommended three
additions to this bill for consideration:
Page 3, Section 1, 16(C) "a process for districts to
petition the department prior to the initiation,
continuation, or discontinuation of a department
intervention." The rationale will allow a district to
appeal to the state board on the front end of
intervention.
Page 5, Section 2, 15(C) "School improvement grants
shall be made available to the district or school
under intervention when the district or school
improvement plan requires additional service to
support student achievement. Additional funds may be
used for curricular materials and/or educational
specialist (such as school psychologists, speech
pathologist, community school liaisons, etc. as
written in the district or school improvement plan)."
The rationale is depending upon the size of district
and/or schools in intervention, and number of students
affected, this could be a grant ranging from $250,000
to $1,500,000 per district. For example, with 5
districts in intervention, these supplemental grants
would total $5 to $6 million dollars, statewide total.
Page 5, Section 2 15(D), "In districts where less than
half the schools are the target of the intervention,
the intervention should be focused on those schools,
not the entire district." The rationale is, for
example, if a large district such as Anchorage has
several schools under intervention, the intervention
activities should not disrupt the entire district or
other well-performing schools in Anchorage.
Mr. Eck thanked the Committee for their hard work and
requested the above suggestions be adopted into the bill.
10:04:21 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman MOVED to REPORT CSSB 285(FIN) from
Committee with individual recommendations, a Senate Finance
Letter of Intent and an accompanying fiscal note. There
being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
CSSB 285(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation, a Senate Finance Letter of Intent,
and an accompanying fiscal note by the Department of
Education & Early Development.
AT EASE: 10:05:46 AM
RECONVENED: 1:09:52 PM
CS for HOUSE BILL NO. 310 (FIN) am
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government, for certain
programs, and to capitalize funds; making supplemental
appropriations; and making appropriations under art.
IX, sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska;
and providing for an effective date."
CS for HOUSE BILL NO. 312 (FIN)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
capital expenses of the state's integrated
comprehensive mental health program; and providing for
an effective date."
Co-Chair Hoffman took over as Chair in the meeting.
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment Statewide #1:
Department Executive Branch-wide
10,759,300General Fund
2,341,300 Federal Funds
3,894,200 Other Funds
16,994,800Total Funds
EXPLANATION: This amendment adds the FY09 costs for
the newly ratified Supervisory Unit agreement. The
attached report shows the amounts by department.
Individual component change records have been
transmitted to the Legislative Finance Division, so
the amounts can be added to section 1 of the operating
and mental health bills.
In addition, the following changes should be made to
language:
SCS CSHB 310(F1N)
Amend section 25(a) by adding: (6) Alaska Public
Employees Association, for the supervisory unit.
SCS CSHB 312(F1N)
Amend section 9(a) by adding: (6) Alaska Public
Employees Association, for the supervisory unit.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
TIM GRUSSENDORF, STAFF, CO-CHAIR HOFFMAN, explained that
Amendment Statewide #1 applies to the newly ratified
Supervisory Unit agreement. There are language changes in
addition to added funds. Co-Chair Hoffman noted that the
amendment was brought forth by the Administration.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Statewide Amendment #1 was
adopted.
1:12:06 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment Statewide #2:
DEPARTMENT: Statewide
ADD: 13,862,200 General Funds
577,100 Federal Funds
3,861,400 Other Funds
18,300,700 Total Funds
EXPLANATION: This amendment adds the FY09 costs
associated with HB 417 and SB 297, Nonunion Public
Employee Salary and Benefit. The attached report shows
the amounts by department. Individual component change
records have been transmitted to the Legislative
Finance Division, so the amounts can be added to
section 1 of the operating and mental health bills.
Language amendments:
SCS CSHB 310(FIN)
Add a new subsection to Sec. 25 to read:
(d) The appropriations made in sec. 1 of this
Act relating to nonunion employee salaries and
benefits are contingent upon passage and enactment
into law in 2008 of a version of HB 417 or SB 297.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds costs
associated with Nonunion Public Employee Salary and
Benefits and changes language in two sections.
Co-Chair Hoffman added that the amendment was at the
request of the Administration. He WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Statewide Amendment #2 was
adopted.
1:13:05 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment Statewide #3:
Department: Labor and Workforce Development
Appropriation: Business Partnerships
Allocation: Alaska Vocational Technical Center
ADD: 90,900 General Funds 1004
7,300 Interagency Receipts 1007
98,200 Total
Explanation: This amendment adds the FY09 costs for
the new AVTECTA agreement. The component's change
record has been transmitted to the Legislative Finance
Division, so the amounts can be added to section 1 of
the operating and mental health bills.
In addition, the following changes should be made to
language:
SCS CSHB 310(FIN)
Amend section 25(a) by adding: (7) Alaska Vocational
Technical Center Teachers' Association, representing
employees of the Alaska Vocational Technical Center.
SCS CSHB 312(FIN)
Amend Section 9(a) by adding: (7) Alaska Vocational
Technical Center Teachers' Association, representing
employees of the Alaska Vocational Technical Center.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment funds the
costs of the new Alaska Vocational Technical Center
Teachers' Association agreement. It also has language
changes in two sections.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Statewide Amendment #3 was
adopted.
1:13:51 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment Statewide #4:
Page 59, lines 19-20:
Delete "partial payment of the participating
teachers' retirement system employers"
Insert "an additional state"
Page59,line 2l:
Delete "AS 14.25.070(a)"
Insert "AS 14.25.085"
Page59,lines 22-24:
Delete all material.
Reletter the following subsections accordingly.
Page 59, lines 27 - 28:
Delete "partial payment of the participating
public employees' retirement system employers"
Insert "an additional state"
Page 59, line 28:
Delete "AS 39.35.270"
Insert "AS 39.35.280"
Page 59 line 29, through page 60, line 1:
Delete all material.
Reletter the following subsection accordingly.
Page 76, following line 1:
Insert a new subsection to read:
"(c) The appropriations made in sec. 13 of
this Act are contingent on the enactment
into law of FCCS SB 125, passed by the Twenty-
Fifth Alaska State Legislature."
1:14:24 PM
DAVID TEAL, DIRECTOR, LEGISLATIVE FINANCE DIVISION,
explained that the amendment was brought forth by the
Commissioner of Administration. Because SB 125 was
adopted, conforming changes had to be made. It removes the
contingency language and references to partial payment.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Statewide Amendment #4 was
adopted.
1:15:42 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment Administrative
#1:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Administration
APPROPRIATION: Legal & Advocacy Services
ADD NEW ALLOCATION: Therapeutic Courts Support
Services
ADD: $65,000 General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: Funding will be paid as a grant to
Partners for Progress. Partners for Progress is a non-
profit entity supporting Therapeutic Courts. Partners
for Progress has been a key to training state
personnel who work in therapeutic courts and providing
assistance to defendants participating in therapeutic
courts and continues to be a necessary element of the
program. Funding is for basic on-going costs.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds $65,000
in General Funds as a grant to Partners for Progress. He
noted a great deal of public support for this item.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Administration #1 was adopted.
1:16:35 PM
Senator Dyson WITHDREW Amendment Administration #2.
Senator Dyson requested Amendment Administration #3 be put
at the end of the list. Co-Chair Hoffman agreed with the
request.
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DCCED #1:
Page 66, line 1, through page 66, line 31:
Delete all material and insert:
"(c) The federal funds received by the state
under 42 U.S.C. 6506a(l) or former 42 U.S.C. 6508 not
appropriated for grants under AS 37.05.530(d) are
appropriated as follows:
(1) to the principal of the Alaska permanent
fund and the public school trust fund (AS 37.14.110),
according to AS 37.05.530(g)(1) and 37.05.530(g)(2);
and
(2) to the principal of the Alaska permanent
fund, the public school trust fund (AS 37.14.110), and
the power cost equalization and rural electric
capitalization fund (AS 42.45.100), according to
AS 37.05.530(g)(3)."
Reletter the following subsections accordingly.
Page 75, line 27:
Delete "sec. 22(u)"
Insert "sec. 22(s)"
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Teal explained that the amendment affects the
distribution of funds received from the federal government
for NPRA purposes. This amendment deals with the money
that does not go out as grants. The language follows
current statutes which say that 25 percent of the total
amount received goes to the permanent fund.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment DCCED #1 was adopted.
1:19:23 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DEED #1:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Education & Early
Development
APPROPRIATION: Head Start Grants
ALLOCATION: Early Learning Coordination Funding
Position
ADD:
Funding Source Amount
General Funds $ 407.1
Explanation: Adds one position
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds one
position to the Department of Education & Early Development
related to Head Start Grants.
Co-Chair Hoffman commented that there were a number of
individuals that supported this item.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his objection.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment DEED #1 was adopted.
1:20:43 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DEC #1:
Department: Department of Environmental
Conservation
Appropriation: Administration
Allocation: Information and Administrative Services
FUND CHANGE: ($38,200) Vessel Compliance (1166)
$38,200 Ocean Ranger (1205)
DEPARTMENT: Department of Environmental
Conservation
APPROPRIATION: Water
ALLOCATION: Water Quality
FUND CHANGE: ($4,000,000) Vessel Compliance (1166)
$4,000,000 Ocean Ranger (1205)
EXPLANATION: Create and use a fund source code to enable
tracking of Ocean Ranger revenues and expenditures. The
source of these revenues is a $4 per berth fee imposed on
all large commercial passenger vessels (except state
operated vessels) that operate in Alaska (AS
46,03.480(d)). Both Vessel Compliance and Ocean Ranger
codes are in the "Other" fund group.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment results in a net
zero request which would create and use a fund source code to
track Ocean Ranger revenues and expenditures.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his objection.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment DEC #1 was adopted.
1:21:23 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment F & G #1:
Page 59, following line 16:
Insert a new bill section to read:
"* Sec. 13. DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME. The sum of
$500,000 is appropriated from the Alaska sport fishing
enterprise account within the fish and game fund
(AS 16.05.100) to the Department of Fish and Game for
hatchery operation."
Renumber the following bill sections accordingly.
Page 75, line 21:
Delete "22, 27(h), and 27(i)"
Insert "23, 28(h), and 28(i)"
Page 75, line 27:
Delete "sec. 22(u)"
Insert "sec. 23(u)"
Page 76, following line 1:
Insert a new subsection to read:
"(c) The appropriation made in sec. 13 of this Act is
contingent on passage by the Twenty-Fifth Alaska State
Legislature and enactment into law of a measure
reappropriating:
(1) the unexpended and unobligated balance, not
to exceed $25,000,000, of the appropriation made in sec.
1, ch. 3, FSSLA 2005, page 55, lines 21 - 22 (Department
of Fish and Game, sport fish hatcheries - $62,140,000) to
the Department of Fish and Game for design and
construction of the Ruth Burnett Sport Fish Hatchery in
Fairbanks; and
(2) the unexpended and unobligated balance,
after the appropriation referred to in (1) of this
subsection, of the appropriation made in sec. 1, ch. 3,
FSSLA 2005, page 55, lines 21 - 22 (Department of Fish and
Game, sport fish hatcheries - $62,140,000) to the
Department of Fish and Game for facilities upgrades,
improvements, and construction for the sport fish
hatcheries in Anchorage."
Page 76, line 2:
Delete "30"
Insert "31"
Page 76, line 3:
Delete "sec. 32"
Insert "sec. 33"
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf related that the amendment is a follow-up on
the subcommittee's removal of $500,000 from the Alaska sport
fishing enterprise account.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO further OBJECTION, Amendment F & G #1 was
adopted.
1:22:08 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment F & G #2:
Department: Department of Fish and Game
DELETE: The following intent language from
page 13, line 24:
It is the intent of the legislature to fund all of the
increments and fund changes replacing the $7.2 million of lost
federal funding on a one-time basis. The Department is
requested to prioritize these amendments for consideration in
the FY2O1O budget.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment deletes intent
language.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment F & G #2 was adopted.
AT-EASE: 1:22:51 PM
RECONVENED: 1:23:24 PM
Senator Dyson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment F & G #3:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Fish and Game
APPROPRIATION: Wildlife Conservation
ALLOCATION: Hunter Education Public Shooting Ranges
ADD: $676.5 Fish and Game Funds (1024)
EXPLANATION:
In a state where firearm ownership and interest in hunting
and recreational shooting is so widespread, it is
extremely important that the state have ranges that are
safe and supervised for purposes of gun safety training,
hunter education training and for recreation. Safety is
paramount in this arena and the public expects certain
protocols in regard to firearm usage. It is too important
that the state not leave supervision of these ranges to
municipal discretion, of which we have no control.
This amendment would restore funding for 3 state shooting
ranges and 2 PFTs; 6 PPTs; and 1 Temp.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Senator Dyson explained that the amendment relates to the
withdrawal of funds for the administration of three state
shooting ranges. He pointed out that $5 million in federal
funds would have to be returned if the ranges no longer
operate.
Co-Chair Hoffman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION. He thought the
request was not a necessity and it would come up again.
Senator Dyson opined that the legislature should make the
appropriation to reimburse the federal government if the ranges
are no longer in operation.
Co-Chair Hoffman reported that twelve individuals testified in
support of continuing the shooting ranges.
Senator Olson asked where the three shooting ranges were
located. Senator Dyson related that they are in Fairbanks,
Anchorage, and Juneau.
Co-Chair Stedman commented on equity and support for the
shooting ranges in other areas of the state outside of the
three major population centers. He thought a compromise could
be found.
1:27:36 PM
Senator Thomas noted the importance of the shooting ranges to
hunter education.
Senator Dyson voiced appreciation for the idea of distributing
the benefits to more areas. He spoke of safety issues as they
apply to rural areas. He did not want to take anything away
from the current three ranges.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Dyson
OPPOSED: Olson, Thomas, Elton, Stedman, Hoffman
The MOTION FAILED (1-5).
1:29:51 PM
Senator Dyson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment F & G #4:
Page 13, line 31, through page 14, line 4:
Delete all material.
Page 14, lines 25 - 29:
Delete all material.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
SENATOR THOMAS WAGONER, sponsor of the amendment, explained
that it removes vague intent language related to Fish and Game
offices in his district.
Senator Dyson said he was glad he did not know much about the
amendment. He commented on the unhappy decisions related to
the Cook Inlet region.
1:32:41 PM
Senator Wagoner added that the decision should be made by the
Board of Fish.
Co-Chair Hoffman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Dyson
OPPOSED: Thomas, Elton, Olson, Hoffman, Stedman
The MOTION FAILED (1-5).
1:34:20 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment GOV #1.
DEPARTMENT: Office of the Governor
APPROPRIATION: Executive Operations
ALLOCATION: Executive Office
ADD: $200,000
FUNDING SOURCE: $200.0 General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION:
This funding will add a position to serve the statewide
energy policy coordinator as directed by the Governor.
This position will work with the Alaska Energy Authority
Board of Directors and the Governor to establish long-
range energy goals, strategies, plans and policies.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf related that the amendment adds $200,000 to the
Governor's office for the new statewide energy policy
coordinator. Co-Chair Hoffman noted that the Governor
requested that the position work with the Alaska Energy
Authority.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment GOV #1 was adopted.
1:34:45 PM
Co-Chair Olson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment HESS #1a:
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Behavioral Health
ALLOCATION: Services for Severely Emotionally
Disturbed Youth
ADD: $500.0, OTI
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: Boys & Girls Home of Alaska
This funding will provide Boys & Girls Home of Alaska (BGHA)
with a one-time start-up operational grant to address initial
funding shortages due to lagging enrollment during the first
year of operation.
Construction of the BGHA facility will be completed in August
2008. Private funds generated through the non-profit company
were used to build the 68,000 sq. ft. facility for children
ages 6 to 18. The campus includes 4 cottage residential units
at 10,000 sq. ft. each and a central facility of 28,000 sq. ft.
to provide school and therapeutic services.
BGHA expects to begin admitting children no later than in
September 2008 and gradually increase its enrollments to 80-90
in the first year. The majority of these children will arrive
after the October Department of Education and Early
Development's student count period and will not qualify for
educational funding in the first year.
The BGH of Alaska must commit to hiring educational and
therapeutic specialists by June --July 2008 in order to
provide services throughout the first full year of
operation. It is anticipated that the facility will not be
at capacity for the first year and yet, BGHA must be
adequately staffed at the onset.
This grant. matched hy BGHA's private funds ofS500.000,
will provide the necessary funding to assure that
professional starting levcls art: adequate for the first
full year upon opening.
Over the past seven years the children's behavioral health
system in Alaska has become increasingly reliant on
institutional care -inpatient hospital and Residential
Psychiatric Treatment Center (RPTC) care -especially out-
of-state RPTC care, for treatment of severely emotionally
disturbed youth. In the past six years, acute care
admissions increased by one-third and total days of
inpatient care increased by 90%. Out-of-state placements
in RPTC care grew by nearly 700% and in-state RPTC care
grew by 145% from FY98-FY03.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds $500,000 to
the Boys & Girls Home of Alaska for services for emotionally
disturbed youth. It is part of the Bring the Children Home
initiative.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment HESS #1a was adopted.
1:35:25 PM
Senator Olson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment HESS #1b:
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Public Health
ALLOCATION: Epidemiology
ADD: $500.0
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: Completed Alaska's Stockpiling of
Antiviral Drugs
In the FY07 budget, the DHSS requested $1,000,000 GF
increment for Infectious Disease Control and
Emergency Preparedness. These funds would be used to
treat SARS and the H5N1 strain of avian influenza.
The legislature approved $500,000 of the request.
Also in the FY07 budget, the DHSS requested a
$563,600 increment for Pandemic Influenza
Preparedness AK Stockpile of Antiviral Drugs. These
funds would be used to purchase H5N1 avian influenza
vaccines. On November 2,2005, the US Department of
Health and Human Services released the national
Pandemic Influenza Plan. The plan calls for national
stockpiles of antiviral medications for use in the
event of a pandemic. The legislature approved the
$563,600 request.
In December 2007, it brought to the department's
attention that the agreed upon level of vaccines had
not yet been purchased. The department did not
complete the purchase of those vaccines during the
discount period. On February 14,2008, a letter from
the Governor stated that the department has now
procured the remaining 38,000 vaccines. The $563,600
funding is still in the base funding level for the
division, therefore $563,600 for FY07, $563,600 for
FY08 and continued $563,600 for FY09 is "earmarked"
for avian influenza vaccines.
The funds have been available and it appears that
they have not been used entirely for their intended
purpose. $500,000 GF may be better used for a
different purpose within the department.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment deletes $500,00
from Public Health epidemiology and shifts to fund the item in
Amendment HESS #1a.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment HESS #1b was adopted.
1:35:56 PM
Senator Olson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment HESS #2:
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Children's Services
ALLOCATION: Children's Services Management
ADD: $200.0, OTI
FUNDING SOURCES: General Funds Match $151.7 (1003)
Federal Receipts $48.3 (1002)
EXPLANATION: Federally Mandated Child and Family
Services Review
Move federally mandated child and family services review
(CSFR) project from Capital Budget to Operating Budget.
This amendment provides one-time funding for the
development and implementation of a Program Improvement
Plan which will be the result of a CSFR.
The purpose of a CSFR is to help states improve safety,
permanency, and well-being outcomes for children and
families receiving services through the child welfare
system and to monitor compliance with the requirements of
Title IV-B of the Social Security Act. CFSRs offer states
a new way to manage their child welfare systems- with a
focus on continuous improvement. Therefore, compliance
standards are set for each measure at 95% to 100%. Each
CFSR includes a statewide assessment and an onsite review
of child and family services outcomes and program systems.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds $200,000 for
a federally mandated program into the operating budget.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment HESS #2 was adopted.
1:36:45 PM
Senator Olson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment HESS #3:
DEPARTMENT: Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Public Health
ALLOCATION: Community Health Grants
ADD: $1000.0
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: Funding for Community Health Centers
This request will provide funding to
Community Health Centers.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds $1 million in
general funds for Community Health Centers.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, Amendment HESS #3 was adopted.
Senator Dyson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment HESS #4:
AGENCY: Department of Health and Social
Services
APPROPRIATION: Departmental Support Services
ALLOCATION: Office of Faith Based & Community
Initiatives
ADD: Reinstate four component positions
1002 Fed. Rcpts: 3.0
1003 General Fund Match 212.1
1004 Gen Fund 44.2
Total 259.3
JUSTIFICATION:
This amendment restores the Office of Faith Based &
Community Initiatives which was eliminated by
withholding funds in the current CS. The $500,000
community grant funds were moved to a new component
without adequate personnel to administer the funds.
This amendment continues to fund the four positions
of the Office of Faith Based & Community Initiatives
and returns the $500,000 grant funds to the office
for administration. This amendment then deletes the
proposed new component of Community Initiative
Matching Grants (non-statutory grants) as being
superfluous.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Senator Dyson explained that the amendment restores funding for
the Office of Faith Based & Community Initiatives. He shared
successes of the Office.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if federal funds were available that had
not been disseminated. Mr. Grussendorf replied that $500,000
in federal grant money had not been distributed.
Co-Chair Hoffman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
Senator Dyson commented that those monies were not for the
people administering the grants, but directed for recipients in
need.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Elton, Olson
OPPOSED: Dyson, Thomas, Hoffman, Stedman
The MOTION to adopt Amendment HESS #4 FAILED (2-4).
AT-EASE: 1:40:42 PM
RECONVENED: 1:42:28 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DNR #1:
Page 61, line 2:
Delete ", resource development allocation,"
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that it is a technical amendment.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:43:09 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DNR #2:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Natural Resources
APPROPRIATION: Parks and Recreation Management
ALLOCATION: Parks Management
ADD: $2,020.2 Vehicle Rental Tax (1200)
DELETE: $2,020.2 General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment simplifies tracking of
Vehicle Rental Tax (VRT) receipts by eliminating
amounts used in DNR. Use of VRT receipts in DNR
Parks Management brings total FY09 appropriations of
VRT Receipts to $8,018,600- the available balance of
Vehicle Rental Taxes for FY09.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment is a fund source
change from general funds to the vehicle rental tax.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:43:56 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DNR #3:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Natural Resources
APPROPRIATION: Resource Development
ALLOCATION: Oil and Gas Development
DELETE: $1,318,100.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Funds (1004)
EXPLANATION: These funds are included in the
Office of the Governor's Branch-wide Oil and Gas
Development component so do not need to be duplicated
Within DNR.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment deletes duplicated
general funds.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
Senator Dyson asked for comments by OMB.
KAREN REHFELD, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET,
clarified that it was a duplication of funds.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:45:10 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DPS #1:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual
Assault
ALLOCATION: Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual
Assault
ADD: $100,000 General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This request adds back the $100,000
General Fund reduction in the Senate
Subcommittee and restores CDVSA back
To its FY08 base budget amount.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment adds back funds to
the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
Co-Chair Hoffman noted that this appropriation was the most
popular topic during public testimony. He WITHDREW his
OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:46:08 PM
Senator Dyson MOVED to combine and adopt the remaining DPS
amendments together.
Department of Public Safety Amendment #2:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Detachments
ADD: $518,900.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment restores funding to cover
the known cost increases for the existing vehicle fleet of
the Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Wildlife Troopers.
The Senate Finance Subcommittee included funding for only
50% of the budget increments for these costs.
This amendment covers the reductions made to three
components:
Detachments $439,800
Alaska Wildlife Troopers 72,700
Alaska Bureau of Alcohol & Drug Enforcement 6,400
If this funding is not restored, the department will have
two choices: 1) Continue to operate all vehicles as needed
in order to provide the originally budgeted level of law
enforcement services but seek a supplemental appropriation
next year, or 2) take action that will to reduce
enforcement / protection efforts such as turning in
vehicles or holding positions vacant to cover these costs.
Department of Public Safety Amendment #3:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Alaska Bureau of Judicial Services
ADD: $156,300.
Funding Source: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment restores funding to fully
cover the cost of implementing the prisoner transportation
settlement with the Municipality of Anchorage.
The Governor's budget included $656,300 to fund this
program, which is being implemented during the current
fiscal year. Four of the six new court services officers
have already been hired and the two other positions are
expected to be filled by July 1.
The Senate Finance Subcommittee reduced funding by
$156,300 and directed the department to contract out this
function. However, this proposal by the subcommittee is
simply unworkable for the upcoming fiscal year. Prior to
contracting out this services, the department would need
to develop a plan for delivery of services in this manner
while ensuring public safety and maintaining the
effectiveness and efficiency of these services.
Additionally, the bargaining unit agreement with the
Public Safety Employees Association (PSEA) sets out in
Article 32 a specific process for evaluating the
feasibility of, and conditions for, contracting out work
that would normally be performed by PSEA members.
If this funding is not restored, the department will have
three choices: 1) Continue to fill all positions in order
to provide the services needed to comply with this legal
settlement, but seek a supplemental appropriation next
year; or 2) take action that will risk failure to adhere
to the settlement which would likely lead to further
litigation; or 3) reallocate other resources to this
function, which will reduce other court security, prisoner
transport, and law enforcement services.
Department of Public Safety #4:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Alaska Bureau of Judicial Services
ADD: $227,500.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION:
This amendment provides funding to fully cover the
increasing cost of "routine" prisoner transportation,
including extraditions and other transport by commercial or
department aircraft. These costs have been increasing for
years, and the department has been covering the cost
primarily from savings from vacant positions.
The Senate Finance Subcommittee reduced by 50% an increment
to fully fund these costs; this amendment restores that
reduction. If this funding is not restored, the department
will have two choices: 1) Continue to provide all necessary
prisoner transportation services but seek a supplemental
appropriation next year; or 2) reallocate other resources to
this function, which will certainly require holding
positions vacant to make funding available for prisoner
transportation costs.
Department of Public Safety Amendment #5
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Detachments
ADD: $966,800.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment restores funding to
cover the full cost of dispatch services contracts
($420,300) and trooper moves ($425,000) when transferring
between duty posts. Costs for these services have
continued to rise. For the past several years, these cost
increases have been covered from funds available due to
vacant positions. However, the department currently
expects that improved recruiting efforts will enable
filling all vacant trooper positions during the course of
FY2009, so vacancy saving will not be sufficient to cover
these other costs.
This amendment also restores $121,500 of funding for
projected personal services costs of existing positions.
The Governor's budget proposed transferring this amount
from the Alaska Bureau of Judicial Services to the
Detachments component (primarily patrol services) to help
cover expected personnel costs. This transfer between
allocations within the Alaska State Troopers appropriation
was deleted only in the receiving component, thus reducing
total personal services funding.
If this funding is not restored, the department will have
two choices: 1) Continue to plan on filling all positions
in order to provide the originally budget level of law
enforcement services but seek a supplemental appropriation
next year, or 2) take action that will to reduce
enforcement / protection efforts such as holding positions
vacant.
Department of Public Safety Amendment #6
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Safety
APPROPRIATION: Alaska State Troopers
ALLOCATION: Alaska Wildlife Troopers
ADD: $130,000.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Fund (1004)
EXPLANATION: This amendment restores full year funding
for five Alaska Wildlife Troopers (AWT) added in the FY
2008 budget but funded by the legislature for less than 12
months.
If this funding is not restored, the department will have
two choices: 1) Continue to plan on filling all positions
in order to provide the originally budgeted level of
wildlife protection services but seek a supplemental
appropriation next year, or 2) take action that will
reduce enforcement/protection efforts such as holding
positions vacant.
AT-EASE 1:46:33 PM
RECONVENED: 1:47:00 PM
Co-Chair Hoffman agreed to allow Senator Dyson's motion to
group DPS Amendments 2-6 together. He OBJECTED for discussion
purposes.
Senator Dyson emphasized the importance of the Alaska State
Troopers and the dangers they face. He related that he was
happy to see that all of the vacancies planned to be filled.
The amendments restore funding for the Troopers.
Co-Chair Hoffman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Dyson
OPPOSED: Elton, Olson, Thomas, Stedman, Hoffman
The MOTION to adopt Amendments 2-6 DPS FAILED (1-5).
1:49:53 PM
Senator Olson MOVED to ADOPT Amendment DOT #1:
DEPARTMENT: Transportation and Public Facilities
APPROPRIATION: Marine Highway Systems
ALLOCATION: Marine Vessel Operations
DELETE: $2,297.6 general funds (1004); $1950.0
Alaska Marine Highway Funds (1076)
EXPLANATION: This amendment deletes $4,247.6,
Thereby eliminating 12.6 weeks of
Service for the Kennicott during the
Tustemena CIP lay-up.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the amendment deletes funds for
the Kennicott during lay-up.
Co-Chair Stedman stated support for the amendment; however, he
emphasized his continued support for the Alaska Marine Highway.
Co-Chair Hoffman MAINTAINED his OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Olson, Thomas, Dyson, Elton, Stedman, Hoffman
OPPOSED: None
The MOTION PASSED (6-0).
1:53:00 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT Amendment UNIV #1:
DEPARTMENT: University of Alaska
APPROPRIATION: Budget Reductions/Additions
ALLOCATION: System Reductions/Additions
TRANSFER OUT: $8,609,000 ($3,372,200 OF (1004);
$3,267,900 Fed Rcpts (1002); $860,400 State Interagency
Rcpts; $401,000 CIP Rcpts; and $707,500 University
Interagency Rcpts)
DEPARTMENT: University of Alaska
APPROPRIATION: Various Appropriations
ALLOCATION: Various Allocations
TRANSFER IN: $8,609,000 ($3,372,200 GF (1004); $3,267,900 Fed Rcpts
(1002); $860,400 State Interagency Rcpts; $401,000 CIP Rcpts; and $707,500 University
Interagency Rcpts)
EXPLANATION: This amendment reflects a redistribution of
previously unallocated funds from the Budget
Reductions/Additions appropriation into the appropriation
structure as proposed by the Senate Finance Subcommittee
for the University. This action involves the following
group transactions:
(a)Spread decrement for a portion of the GF request
for Library, Information
Technology and Other Operations (-$128.9 GF);
(b) Spread OF portion for non-represented salary
increases using the University's new Grid System
($3,201.1 OF);
(c) Transfer out funding for Distance Education
Support to a new allocation Systemwide Education &
Outreach ($300.0 GF);
(d) Spread non-GF originally recorded in Systemwide
Reductions/Additions to various appropriations
($5,236.8 non-GF)
The two Legislative Finance reports present this
amendment in detail: (1) Allocation Summary, and (2)
Transaction 1-Way Comparison.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Co-Chair Stedman explained that the amendment reflects a
redistribution of previously unallocated funds from the Budget
Reductions/Additions appropriation into the appropriation
structure as proposed by the Senate Finance Subcommittee for
the University.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:53:49 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT UNIV #2:
Department: University of Alaska
ADD INTENT: It is the intent of the legislature that
the University of Alaska submit a report by the last day
of each calendar quarter to the Legislative Budget & Audit
Committee which describes in detail the movement of funds
and positions between allocations as well as reimbursable
services agreements between University appropriations.
EXPLANATION: With the separation of University funding
into several appropriations, the Legislature understands
that some programs span throughout the system. The
Legislature would like to track the interaction of these
programs and have an understanding of any problems that
may be encountered due to the divided structure.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Co-Chair Stedman explained that the amendment adds a Letter of
Intent. With separation of University funding into several
appropriations, the legislature understands that some programs
span throughout the system. The legislature would like to
track the interaction of these programs and have an
understanding of potential problems. It gives Legislative
Budget and Audit the chance to interface with the University.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:55:28 PM
Senator Elton MOVED to ADOPT COURTS #1:
DEPARTMENT: Alaska Courts System
APPROPRIATION: Alaska Court System
ALLOCATION: Appellate Courts
ADD: $25,000.
FUNDING SOURCE: General Funds
EXPLANATION: This amendment adds $25.0 to the
subcommittee transaction $75.0 for "Additional Costs
Related to the Supreme Court Justice Appointment in
Fairbanks." The amended amount will be $100.0, which is
$19.9 and one PFT below the Court System's request.
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED.
Senator Elton explained that the amendment adds $25,000 in
general funds to the Alaska Court System and allows some
latitude that it needs with the addition of the new Supreme
Court Justice.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
1:56:03 PM
Senator Olson MOVED to ADOPT HESS #5:
DEPARTMENT: Department of Health and Social Services
APPROPRIATION: Senior and Disabilities Services
ALLOCATION: Senior/Disabilities Medicaid
ADD: 278,500 General Funds
290,200 Federal Funds
EXPALANATION: Increase the assisted living home
reimbursement rate to 6% rather than the 4%
originally recommended by the department. Other
similar assisted living home reimbursements have
been increased 6% annually (e.g. private hospitals,
state managed assisted living beds).
Co-Chair Hoffman OBJECTED for discussion purposes.
Senator Olson explained that the amendment increases the
assisted living reimbursement rate to 6 percent, up from 5
percent. There has not been a rate increase since 2002.
Co-Chair Hoffman WITHDREW his OBJECTION.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
AT-EASE: 1:57:12 PM
RECONVENED: 1:57:44 PM
Co-Chair Hoffman turned again to HESS #3.
Mr. Grussendorf explained that the appropriation should read
"Public Health" and the allocation should read "Community
Health Grants".
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Senator Dyson WITHDREW Amendment ADMIN #3.
Co-Chair Hoffman MOVED to give Legislative Legal Services and
Legislative Finance the authority to make technical and
conforming changes as they are preparing the bill for Floor
action.
There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
Senator Dyson commented on the integrity of the budgetary
process. Co-Chair Hoffman added that there was open debate on
all amendments.
2:00:55 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to REPORT CSHB 310(FIN)am out of
Committee, as amended, with individual recommendations. There
being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
SCS CSHB 310(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation.
AT-EASE: 2:01:15 PM
RECONVENED: 2:01:44 PM
Mr. Grussendorf reported that in HB 312, the first project was
removed by the House. The Senate pulled everything out of the
bill except for that first item. The whole bill is now in
conference committee.
2:02:25 PM
Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to REPORT CSHB 312(FIN) out of
Committee, as amended, with individual recommendations. There
being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered.
SCS CSHB 312(FIN) was REPORTED out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation.
Co-Chair Hoffman thanked the Committee and their staff for all
their hard work on the budgets.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 2:03 PM.
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