HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE March 5, 2014 1:32 p.m. 1:32:01 PM CALL TO ORDER Co-Chair Stoltze called the House Finance Committee meeting to order at 1:32 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT Representative Alan Austerman, Co-Chair Representative Bill Stoltze, Co-Chair Representative Mark Neuman, Vice-Chair Representative Les Gara Representative David Guttenberg Representative Lindsey Holmes Representative Cathy Munoz Representative Tammie Wilson MEMBERS ABSENT Representative Mia Costello Representative Bryce Edgmon Representative Steve Thompson ALSO PRESENT Pearl Brower, President, Ilisaguik College, Barrow; Kathy Leary, Training Manager, Ilisaguik College, Barrow; Deantha Crockett, Alaska Miners Association, Anchorage; Luke Hopkins, Mayor, Fairbanks Northstar Borough, Fairbanks. PRESENT VIA TELECONFERENCE Sean Domagalski, Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital, Barrow; Jeff Prater, Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital, Barrow; Marie Carroll, President, Arctic Slope Native Association, Barrow; Dillon Ray Bennett, Community Health Aide Program, Dillingham; Berna Rae Andrews, Community Health Aide Program, Dillingham; Jack Davis, Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation, Dillingham; Elaine Phillips, Community Health Aide Program, Dillingham; Glen Johnson, Self, Dillingham; John Yates, Fairbanks Native Association, Fairbanks; Tammi Ganguli, Self, Fairbanks; Caralyn Holmes, Chair, Fairbanks North Star Borough, Fairbanks; Christopher Taylor, Access Alaska, Fairbanks; Ann Lefavor, Coordinator, Access Alaska Youth Transition Program, Fairbanks; Shawston Runk, Women's and Children's Center for Inner Healing, Fairbanks; Sue Hull, Fairbanks School District, Fairbanks; Jeanett Klecka, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks; Samantha Wallingford, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks; Heather Lambert, Fairbanks PTA, Fairbanks; Julia Madeline Taylor, University of Alaska Fairbanks Student, Fairbanks; Shawna Nutt, Residential Substance Abuse Counselor, Fairbanks Native Association, Fairbanks; Hillary Addison, Substance Abuse Counselor, Fairbanks Native Association, Fairbanks; Judith Nolan, Self, Fairbanks; Ron Johnson, Self, Fairbanks; Amee McHatten, Women's and Children's Center for Inner Healing, Fairbanks; Jamie Bavilla, Self, Fairbanks; Jessica Hedge, Women and Children Inner Healing, Fairbanks; Jim Williams, City of Fairbanks, Fairbanks; Cheryl Kilgore, Executive Director, Interior Community Health Center, Fairbanks; Elizabeth Adams, Ralph Perdue Center, Fairbanks; Liz Bottasso, Self, Fairbanks; Corrine Biederman, Self, Fairbanks; Al Stevens, Self, Fairbanks; Michelle Hajdukovich, Self, Fairbanks; Crystal Stordahl, Community Health Aide, Tanana Chiefs Conference, Fairbanks; Pete Lewis, Superintendent, Fairbanks School District, Fairbanks; Annette Becker, Youth Advocates of Sitka, Sitka; Ann Wilkinson, Sitka Community Hospital, Sitka; Colleen Ingman, City and Borough of Sitka, Sitka; Charlie Wilber, Self, Sitka; Becky Martello, AMSEA, Sitka; David Felts, Self, Sitka; Joe D'Arienzo, Self, Sitka; James Swift, Self, Sitka; Amy Zanuzoski, Sitka Counseling, Sitka; Marita Bailey, Sitka Counseling, Sitka; Kerry Tomlinson, Sitka Counseling, Sitka; Vena Talea Stough, Self, Sitka; Linda Behnken, Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association, Sitka; Terry Perensovich, Self, Sitka; Brian Lynch, Petersburg Vessel Owners Association, Petersburg; Karin McCullough, Self, Petersburg; Mike Stainbrook, Self, Petersburg; Sunny Rice, Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program, Petersburg; Frank Kelty, Unalaska-Dutch Harbor Fish and Game Advisory Committee, Unalaska; Shirley Marquardt, Mayor of Unalaska, Unalaska; Dirk White, Chair, Board of Pharmacy, Sitka; Bryan Zak, Self, Homer; Hal Smith, South Peninsula Hospital, Homer; Jim Stearns, Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, Homer; Lolita Brache, Best Beginnings, Homer; Margo Reveil, Jakolof Bay Oyster Company, Homer; George Matz, Kachemak Bay Research Reserve Community Council, Fritz Creek; Terri Mach, Self, Homer; Graff Coble, Self, Homer; Angie Doroff, Self, Homer; Stacy Buckelew, Self, Homer; Shara Suthertin, Self, Homer; Jillian Lush, Sprout Family Services, Homer; Katie Koester, City of Homer, Homer; Zachary Brown, South Peninsula Behavioral Health Services, Homer; Megan Murphy, Self, Homer; Carol Harding, Self, Homer; Chris Lopez, Self, Homer; Maria Calhoun, Self, Homer; Nolan Bunting, Self, Homer; Jim Hornaday, Self, Homer; Kris Holderied, Self, Homer; Phil Crordon, Self, Homer; Will Schlein, Self, Homer; Joseph Lunn, Kenai Peninsula College, Soldotna; Michael Skinner, Kenai Peninsula College, Kenai; Scott Sellers, Kenai Peninsula College, Soldotna; Cheryl Tuttle, Kenai Peninsula College, Soldotna; Shawn Rodgers, Kenai Peninsula College, Soldotna; Kathleen Fitzgerald, Self, Soldotna; Shawna Thornton, University of Alaska, Kenai; Carlen Williams, S.E. Area Health Education Center, Ketchikan; Christa Bruce, S.E. Area Health Education Center, Ketchikan; Gretchen Klein, Prince of Wales Health Network, Ketchikan; Pat Chapman, Self, Ketchikan; Dee Wright, The Manor, Ketchikan; Tellisha Frankhouser, S.E. Area Health Education Center, Ketchikan; Job Govaars, Alaska Brain Injury Network, Ketchikan; Shana Criscola, Peace Health, Ketchikan; Sharon Monrean, Self, Ketchikan; Dr. Patrick Ballard, Self, Craig; Patricia Ballard, Self, Craig; Beverly Crum, Ketchikan Medical Center, Ketchikan; Marita Kaplan, Alaska Geriatric Exchange Network, Kodiak; Julie Matweyou, Marine Advisory Program, Kodiak; Jeff Stephan, United Fisherman Marketing Association, Kodiak; Kathy Watkins, Kodiak Island Borough School District Learning Cafe, Kodiak; Ronald VonScheele, Kodiak Island Borough School District Learning Cafe, Kodiak; Art Schultz, Self, Kodiak; Margaret Draskovich, Providence Kodiak Island Medical Center, Kodiak; Charles Davidson, City of Kodiak, Kodiak; John Cannon, Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults, Mat-Su; Ginger Ray, Mat- Su Services for Children and Adults, Mat-Su; Jordan Bassett, Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults, Mat-Su; Karen Nugen-Logan, Nugen's Ranch, Mat-Su; Dr. Barbara Doty, Practicing Physician, Mat-Su; Rachel Greenberg, Mat-Su Senior Services, Mat-Su; Gail Floyd, Nugen's Ranch, Mat-Su; Fran Sedovic, Self, Mat-Su; Ted Brasseur, Nugen's Ranch, Mat-Su; John Lee, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, Mat-Su; Emily Stevens, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, Mat-Su; Kevin Munson, Mat-Su Health Services, Mat-Su; Bridget Bolin, Akeela House, Mat-Su. SUMMARY HB 266 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS HB 266 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further consideration. HB 267 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET HB 267 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further consideration. PUBLIC TESTIMONY: BARROW, DILLINGHAM, FAIRBANKS SITKA, PETERSBURG, DELTA JUNCTION, UNALASKA, GLENALLEN, TOK HOMER, KENAI, KETCHIKAN, KODIAK, MAT-SU, SEWARD HOUSE BILL NO. 266 "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs, capitalizing funds, and making reappropriations; making appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from the coNTSitutional budget reserve fund." HOUSE BILL NO. 267 "An Act making appropriations for the operating and capital expenses of the state's integrated comprehensive mental health program." 1:32:13 PM ^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: BARROW, DILLINGHAM, FAIRBANKS 1:32:55 PM PEARL BROWER, PRESIDENT, ILISAGUIK COLLEGE, BARROW, testified in favor of continued support for the college and its workforce development program. She asked for funding of the original $600,000 request to be reinstated. The college's funding had been cut to $400,000 in FY 14. The college could not withstand another cut of $100,000. She shared that the college had expanded services to other communities. She discussed that enrollment was close to 1,900 around the state. She discussed graduation numbers. She encouraged support for the Alaska Youth First grant program. She asked for support of the Technical Vocational Education Program. 1:36:51 PM KATHY LEARY, TRAINING MANAGER, ILISAGUIK COLLEGE, BARROW, provided examples where the college's students were transitioning into employment. She shared that the school had leveraged funds from employers, workforce training funds, and other NIT funds. She discussed requests for direct job training. A loss of funding would curtail training efforts. She mentioned maritime training efforts for oil spill response. She urged the committee to reinstate full funding for the college. She asked for support of the teacher industry externship program funded partly by the Alaska Youth First Grant. 1:40:22 PM Co-Chair Stoltze remarked that Representative Benjamin Nageak was currently advocating for Arctic and state issues in Washington, D.C. SEAN DOMAGALSKI, SAMUEL SIMMONDS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, BARROW (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. He shared that the state had been supporting designated trauma care facilities throughout the state. He relayed that the trauma center in Barrow was currently striving to receive the level 4 trauma center designation. The designation would provide the center with continued improvements and would ensure it was equipped to provide trauma care. He stressed that stabilization of trauma patients was imperative. He appreciated the funds that would help to save lives. 1:43:29 PM JEFF PRATER, SAMUEL SIMMONDS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, BARROW (via teleconference), asked for support of the reinstatement of Alaska Statewide Trauma System funds. The center was part of a critical access hospital and provided 24-hour emergency room coverage. He communicated that 38 percent of the nation's critical access hospitals were located in health professional storage areas; 52 percent were located in medically underserved areas. He shared that many of the critical access centers served outlying areas; the center in Barrow served five outlying communities. He discussed the long distance between Barrow and the nearest level 3 trauma center in Anchorage. Funds would go to the level 4 trauma center and to other medical services in the North Slope area. 1:45:57 PM MARIE CARROLL, PRESIDENT, ARCTIC SLOPE NATIVE ASSOCIATION, BARROW (via teleconference), spoke strongly in support of prior testimony by Pearl Brower from the Ilisaguik College. She relayed that the funds helped train staff providing healthcare in the hospital. She shared that Barrow had a new critical access regional hospital that had opened in the fall of 2013. She asked for support of the Alaska Statewide Trauma System Fund. She detailed that the center was continuing to improve services and needed any additional funding possible to support staff. She stated that the funds would be used by the facility and would help support the responders from the North Slope Borough. She discussed the difficulty to access care due to the rural location. 1:50:19 PM DEANTHA CROCKETT, ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION, ANCHORAGE, asked for the reinstatement of funds for the 404 wetlands permitting program for primacy evaluation. She stated that wetlands were the largest issue facing mines in Alaska; wetlands were the number one issue that had been brought to her from small mining businesses. She shared that requirements almost always did not reflect the environment the miners were operating in. She stated that fees imposed for impacts to the environment were likely to become project killers. She referred to written testimony provided to members. She assured the committee that the small miners were struggling with the wetland requirement. She discussed potential solutions to the mining environment problems. 1:54:11 PM DILLON RAY BENNETT, COMMUNITY HEALTH AIDE PROGRAM, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke in opposition to cuts to grants impacting the Community Health Aide Program (CHAP). He shared that two-thirds of patients seen in the Bristol Bay region were first seen by a community health aide. He noted that the idea that telemedicine and distance learning would compensate for hands-on training was unrealistic. He communicated that distance learning would only save $2,000 for all students attending in the current session out of the total $15,000. Distance learning added new costs including broadband internet, more computers, and increased staff hours. He stressed that distance learning would cost just as much as training costs. He stressed that diminished funding for the community health aid program would be detrimental to the communities and the healthcare system. 1:56:52 PM BERNA RAE ANDREWS, COMMUNITY HEALTH AIDE PROGRAM, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke in support of CHAP grant funding. She discussed local Native hire at the village clinic. Rural health aides had seen 19,000 patients the prior year. She shared that the CHAP was the most advanced in the state; if funding was cut training would be cut. She communicated that distance education would increase equipment cost. She stated that community health aides were the first line of healthcare; the aides were taught correct techniques with the appropriate training. Training enabled the aides to refer to the clinic for corrective action. She discussed emergency care and other essential healthcare services. Without the adequate training funds the emergency response would be inadequate. 2:00:15 PM JACK DAVIS, BRISTOL BAY AREA HEALTH CORPORATION, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), asked the committee to reinstate full funding for the SHARP loan repayment program in the Department of Health and Social Services budget. He discussed that attracting and retaining healthcare professionals was essential. He stated that the cuts would be a disservice to providers. To pull the rug from underneath the providers called into question the state's commitment to solving rural healthcare issues. 2:02:28 PM ELAINE PHILLIPS, COMMUNITY HEALTH AIDE PROGRAM, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke against the 50 percent cuts to CHAP. The area had many community health aides. She spoke to the importance of adequate training for the aides. She detailed that commercial fishermen and tourists came to visit the Bristol Bay region during the summer months. She asked what would happen if a tourist became ill or was injured in the region. Without the healthcare aides in the region the appropriate treatment would not be available. She provided different scenarios about accidents or illness. She stressed that the grant was needed. 2:05:24 PM GLEN JOHNSON, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke in support of behavioral health program funding. He was a recipient of behavioral health services. He relayed that behavioral health issues facing many local residents were ongoing. He stressed that continued funding for professional support in the region was important. He opposed cuts to CHAP; the aides were a critical step in providing for a person's longevity. He asked for maintained funding for training related to rural and wastewater utilities. 2:07:45 PM JOHN YATES, FAIRBANKS NATIVE ASSOCIATION, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), requested a restoration of funds for residential substance abuse treatment programs. He stated that addiction had cost the Alaska $1.2 billion in 2010. He stated that people were literally dying to get into residential treatment programs. He shared a personal story about his former battle with substance abuse. 2:10:45 PM TAMMI GANGULI, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of increased public education funding. She noted that the state was constitutionally mandated to provide public education funding. The funding was necessary to the state's future. 2:11:40 PM CARALYN HOLMES, CHAIR, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the human services community matching grant; over 38,000 individuals received services provided by the grant in FY 13. She relayed that the services were important to the community. She encouraged the committee to reinstate funds for the grant in the Department of Health and Social Services budget. She referred to written testimony provided to the committee. 2:13:18 PM CHRISTOPHER TAYLOR, ACCESS ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Youth First Grant Program. The program had helped him personally to find and keep a job. He shared information about his past employment and his independent life. He stressed that the funds were incredibly important to individuals. He believed a cut in funding would hinder the program. 2:16:06 PM ANN LEFAVOR, COORDINATOR, ACCESS ALASKA YOUTH TRANSITION PROGRAM, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Alaska Youth First Grant Program. She shared that the Youth First award in 2013 was $20,000. The program served students with disabilities and was solely funded by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. She spoke to high rates of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. She elaborated that the individuals needed more support than traditionally was provided. The program had access to training and good resources. 2:18:50 PM SHAWSTON RUNK, WOMEN'S AND CHILDREN'S CENTER FOR INNER HEALING, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), asked the committee to reinstate the $2 million for residential treatment. She stressed that cuts would be detrimental to addicts needing treatment. She shared personal information about her experience with substance abuse and successful residential treatment. 2:19:34 PM SUE HULL, FAIRBANKS SCHOOL DISTRICT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support for foundation formula dollars for education. The schools were facing cuts that would be harmful. She stated that the district was facing steep cuts; operating dollars were the life-blood of the classroom. She stated that one-time funds and capital funds were not available. She discussed inflation proofing that impacted all budgets. She urged adequate and predictable funding. 2:23:10 PM JEANETT KLECKA, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding for the UAF graduate veterinary program that would be initiated in the fall of 2015. She encouraged an increase in the funding. She spoke about her personal experience with the veterinary field. She spoke to the competitive nature of being admitted into veterinary school programs. She spoke about a club that she was involved with that yielded multiple opportunities. She expressed excitement about the new program at UAF. 2:26:09 PM SAMANTHA WALLINGFORD, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in favor of funding for the UAF professional veterinary program. She talked about the challenges she had faced getting into a veterinary program. She was excited about the program at UAF and hoped to see more veterinarians practicing in Alaska. 2:27:46 PM HEATHER LAMBERT, FAIRBANKS PTA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), asked for increased operating funding for education. She spoke to continued cuts over the years. She was concerned that schools wanted to be innovative and improve; however, decreased funding meant cutting teachers and other school programs. She spoke to high classroom numbers. She stressed that an increase in operating dollars was important. 2:30:19 PM LUKE HOPKINS, MAYOR, FAIRBANKS NORTHSTAR BOROUGH, FAIRBANKS, spoke in support of the governor's proposed $3 billion infusion into the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS)/Teachers' Retirement System (TRS). He stated that the compound interest earnings would help offset costs going forward. He asked for an increase in community revenue sharing to $60 million; funds would be applied to paying down the property tax rate. He encouraged the reinstatement of 404 feasibility funds related to building a bridge across a local Fairbanks river. He discussed air quality permitting that was under state authority. He stated that an outpatient aspect of the Fairbanks behavioral and mental health office funding was expected to run out in May 2014. The mental health funding served a vital purpose. He discussed the community matching grant that the borough would provide 30 percent to. His office housed a Vista volunteer program. He discussed Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) under the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and how to lower the cost of energy at the state's military bases. He encouraged funding for education and classrooms. 2:38:37 PM JULIA MADELINE TAYLOR, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS STUDENT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), shared that she had faced physical disabilities that had made attending school a challenge. She was committed to completing her degree and working as a journalist and mentor. She strongly supported an increase in funding for education specifically for students with disabilities. She was not able to access some facilities on the UAF campus. She hoped the committee would understand that quality facilities were important to students. 2:41:01 PM SHAWNA NUTT, RESIDENTIAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR, FAIRBANKS NATIVE ASSOCIATION, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified against proposed cuts to residential treatment centerfunding. She stated that residential treatment offered whole healing; there were people who could not access recovery with other services. She stated that the treatment saved lives and saved the state money. She urged the committee to not cut funding. 2:43:21 PM HILLARY ADDISON, SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR, FAIRBANKS NATIVE ASSOCIATION, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against cuts to the residential treatment centerfunding. She communicated that addiction was a brain-based disease and not a choice. She stated that residential treatment added a level of treatment needed for individuals to access recovery. She stressed that Alaska had the highest rape rate; many of the incidents involved drugs and alcohol. She stated that the traumas were passed down from generation to generation. She implored the committee to restore funds. 2:45:44 PM JUDITH NOLAN, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of residential treatment center funding. She shared her personal experience fighting the battle with alcohol. The Ralph Purdue center had helped her in her daily life. She was reminded that the only person she could change was herself. She had shown her children that it was okay to ask for help. She discussed that the program provided support for individuals. She stressed that more than one life was saved with the treatment programs. 2:47:53 PM RON JOHNSON, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), supported funding for the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and Teachers' Retirement System (TRS) unfunded liability. He hoped the committee had a plan to address the $12 billion liability. He understood the $3 billion in the governor's proposed budget had been removed. He observed that the state was facing a long-term problem. He asked to be informed of the game plan. Co-Chair Stoltze noted that there were ongoing discussions about solving the issue. 2:49:58 PM AMEE MCHATTEN, WOMEN'S AND CHILDREN'S CENTER FOR INNER HEALING, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in opposition to cuts to residential treatment center funds. She shared her personal experience with substance abuse. The treatment program allowed her to focus on herself and she had regained her self-worth. She stressed the importance of the funding that would help the lives of many people. The treatment was imperative to her life and to the lives of many others. 2:52:25 PM JAMIE BAVILLA, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in opposition to cuts for residential treatment center funding. She shared her personal story related to substance abuse. Outpatient treatment had not worked for her. She had admitted herself to residential treatment and did not believe she would be alive today without the program. 2:54:59 PM JESSICA HEDGE, WOMEN AND CHILDREN INNER HEALING, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against cuts to residential treatment center funding. She stressed that residential treatment took away all of the outside triggers and enabled individuals to face problems heads-on. She emphasized that families and individuals needed the treatment centers. She stressed that a home was not built without a foundation; many times residential treatment was the foundation for individuals. 2:57:08 PM JIM WILLIAMS, CITY OF FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against the removal of the governor's proposal to put $3 billion towards the PERS/TRS unfunded liability and a deletion of funds for revenue sharing. He asked the committee to reconsider adding the governor's proposed funding for municipal revenue sharing. Fairbanks could not raise new revenues with a property tax increase. 2:59:43 PM CHERYL KILGORE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERIOR COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support for quality care for patients. Eligibility was based on income. The center helped people gain and maintain access to primary healthcare. The center relied on the state for support. She stated that 70 percent of its revenue came from services fees. She spoke in support of the Senior Access grant, the SHARP program, and the health and human services matching block grant. 3:02:09 PM ELIZABETH ADAMS, RALPH PERDUE CENTER, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), shared her personal experience with alcohol abuse. She felt ashamed about her alcohol use. She had been sober for 55 days and urged the committee to restore funding for treatment programs. 3:04:37 PM LIZ BOTTASSO, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), voiced support for senior services programs throughout the state. She spoke in favor of the Alaska Geriatric Exchange Network. Alaska had the nation's fastest growing number of seniors. She asked for financial support for the national family caregiver support grant program; the grant provided support to unpaid family members providing the foundation of long-term care services at home. The services saved the state and federal government millions of dollars. She stressed that the services allowed seniors to maintain independent living in their own homes. The $325,000 increment would allow family members to care for their loved ones at home. She voiced support for the Nutrition, Transportation, and Support Services grant for homebound seniors. 3:07:28 PM CORRINE BIEDERMAN, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of residential treatment center funding. She shared her personal experience with substance abuse. She had seen the impacts of treatment for individuals. She was a trauma survivor and stressed that treatment fostered hope where there was none. She stated that the change had a ripple effect that restored the lives of families and communities. She stressed that the change treatment provided would be felt across generations. 3:09:17 PM AL STEVENS, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of residential treatment center funding. He shared his personal story as a recovering alcoholic; he had not had a drink since 1974. He stated that success had been achieved by much difficult work. He noted that everyone had to do their own work in recovery. He was grateful for sobriety. He asked the committee to consider continuing to support inpatient treatment programs. 3:12:40 PM MICHELLE HAJDUKOVICH, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of funds for public education. She asked for adequate and predictable funding for education. She discussed the number of advanced placement courses at a public high school in Fairbanks. She had registered her daughter to attend the school, but had been disappointed to discover that coveted teachers had been pink-slipped and classes had been cut because teachers had to leave or were moved to teach courses that were not their strong suit. She stated that the brain drain of teachers was disappointing. 3:15:03 PM CRYSTAL STORDAHL, COMMUNITY HEALTH AIDE, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against cuts to CHAP. The $1.9 million for CHAP was utilized by tribal health organizations for training and supervision of community health aides. Aides were a vital role in rural access to care in Alaska. She stated that telemedicine and distance learning could not replace CHAP services. She stated that the model mandated a one-on-one instructor for health aide training; there were no online substitutes for the clinical training portion. The statewide training needs far exceeded the capacity. She stated that the disparity would continue to widen. She stressed telemedicine would not reduce the workload or the necessity of employing and training health aides. 3:17:37 PM PETE LEWIS, SUPERINTENDENT, FAIRBANKS SCHOOL DISTRICT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of a $250 increase to the Base Student Allocation (BSA). He thanked the committee for increases in funding in recent years. He communicated that the increase would prevent the district from laying off close to 40 staff members; the district had lain off 37 teachers the past year. He stated that increased class size and decreased programs were not good for students, teachers, the community, or the state. He asked for the increase to maintain quality education. ^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: SITKA, PETERSBURG, DELTA JUNCTION, UNALASKA, GLENALLEN, TOK 3:19:30 PM ANNETTE BECKER, YOUTH ADVOCATES OF SITKA, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in favor of funding for mental and behavioral health services for youths and families. The organization provided a variety of care from residential treatment, therapeutic foster care, and outpatient services. The organization believed in community-based services that were close to home. She communicated that residential treatment and behavioral health prevented many children and youths from using more costly and restrictive services such as hospitals and correctional facilities. She asked the committee to reconsider budget cuts to behavioral health services. 3:22:13 PM ANN WILKINSON, SITKA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of restoring funds for the Alaska Trauma Care Fund. She explained that all members of the trauma team would provide standardized services; the cooperative effort would save lives. She pointed to a 35 percent increase in survival rates of seriously injured patients that were treated at a designated trauma center. Alaska had the second highest trauma mortality rate in the nation. She spoke to the benefits of the statewide trauma care services. 3:25:16 PM COLLEEN INGMAN, CITY AND BOROUGH OF SITKA, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of the transfer of $3 billion from CBR towards the PERS/TRS unfunded liability. She believed the cash infusion was good for the retirement system and the state. She supported the reinstatement $10 million for revenue sharing. She stressed that Sitka relied heavily on the revenue sharing. 3:26:38 PM CHARLIE WILBER, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of restoration of full funding for the Alaska Marine Safety Association (AMSEA). He discussed the good safety record on his commercial fishing boat and attributed it in part to the training provided by AMSEA. He communicated that the commercial fishing industry was the state's largest employer. He stressed that the training had saved lives; there had been a 75 percent fatality reduction since 1991. He asked the committee to restore the $196,900 for the AMSEA program and to provide an increase of $48,000 to offset a loss of federal funds. 3:27:52 PM BECKY MARTELLO, AMSEA, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of the restoration $196,900 for AMSEA and an increase of $48,000. She asked that the funding remain in the operating rather than the capital budget. She stressed that the state's proposal to cut funding by 25 percent in FY 15 followed by 25 percent each year would have a dire impact on the program's continuation. The program had already suffered a 42 percent loss in funding due to federal sequestration. She spoke about the program's many benefits to commercial fishermen. 3:30:05 PM DAVID FELTS, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the University of Alaska at the Board of Regent's requested level. He pointed to the importance of e-learning and the fisheries technology program. He advocated for student services support, such as disabled student support and advisors for the mandatory advising program. 3:31:25 PM JOE D'ARIENZO, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of AMSEA. He stressed the program's importance to coastal communities; it provided the only safety training. He pointed out that AMSEA trained over 100,000 children in over 50 percent of the state's schools. He spoke in favor of full funding for the very important educational program. He emphasized that the training was vital to anyone spending time on the ocean. 3:33:02 PM JAMES SWIFT, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in favor of full funding for AMSEA. He shared a story about vessel safety and the proper use of safety equipment. He noted that AMSEA taught him a great deal about safety in boating. The training provided by the program had been provided to children and adults. 3:35:20 PM AMY ZANUZOSKI, SITKA COUNSELING, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in favor of funding for residential treatment center funding. She stated that the local program allowed skill training for addicted Alaskans. The program supported individuals reentering the community with developed skills to remain clean and sober. Treatment was designed to treat addiction and the underlying conditions contributing to addiction. 3:36:27 PM MARITA BAILEY, SITKA COUNSELING, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of residential treatment center funding. She pointed to the dramatic impact residential treatment had on clients' lives. She stated that the treatment staff offered counseling that held tremendous value to Alaskans. Treatment allowed clients to see themselves as worthy individuals who were deserving of a high quality of life. 3:37:54 PM KERRY TOMLINSON, SITKA COUNSELING, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in favor of residential treatment center funding. She communicated that residential services had a different impact than outpatient services. She stated that the services provided a vital part of the care required for a healthy society. She stressed that the proposed cuts would severely limit access to care. 3:38:58 PM VENA TALEA STOUGH, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of the Technical Vocational Education Program and mandatory student advising with the University of Alaska Southeast. She stated that the education opportunities were available to her because of the advisory services she received at the university. She attributed part of her success as a student to the guidance of university advisors. 3:40:31 PM LINDA BEHNKEN, ALASKA LONGLINE FISHERMEN'S ASSOCIATION, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for AMSEA. She stated that AMSEA saved lives with its educational training opportunities. The program saved lives with its training of fishermen, recreational boaters, and children. She stated that AMSEA was an award winning program. She noted that AMSEA was funded by boat registration fees. 3:42:50 PM TERRY PERENSOVICH, SELF, SITKA (via teleconference), spoke in favor of restored funding for AMSEA. He discussed the many benefits provided by the program. The program provided training to boat captains and crew members. He requested that the $196,900 be restored and asked for an additional increase of $48,000. 3:44:14 PM BRIAN LYNCH, PETERSBURG VESSEL OWNERS ASSOCIATION, PETERSBURG (via teleconference), testified in support of AMSEA as a revenue neutral program. He stressed that the 25 percent cut in FY 15 and additional 25 percent cuts annually thereafter was a bad idea. The elimination of the program would be careless and could cost lives. He spoke about the many benefits of the training that is required in Alaska for commercial fishermen. He discussed the contributions of commercial fishing to the state's general fund. 3:46:44 PM KARIN MCCULLOUGH, SELF, PETERSBURG (via teleconference), testified in support of AMSEA funding. She understood the importance of the safety education training. She discussed the benefits to teenage children in her community. She asked that AMSEA remain in the operating budget. 3:48:13 PM MIKE STAINBROOK, SELF, PETERSBURG (via teleconference), testified in support of funding restoration for AMSEA. He believed that all Alaskans should have the educational benefits offered by AMSEA. The hands-on safety training increased safety of individuals, boats, and the future. He believed the funding for the program should be increased. 3:49:18 PM SUNNY RICE, ALASKA SEA GRANT MARINE ADVISORY PROGRAM, PETERSBURG (via teleconference), testified in favor of AMSEA funding. She spoke about a local aquaculture teacher who spread the word about the important marine safety training program. She stated that the training around the country was less than comparable. 3:51:18 PM FRANK KELTY, UNALASKA-DUTCH HARBOR FISH AND GAME ADVISORY COMMITTEE, UNALASKA (via teleconference), testified in opposition to relocating the patrol vessel Stimson away from Unalaska. The advisory committee believed the change would have serious impacts to the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands related to resource protection, enforcement, and safety. He relayed that U.S. Coast Guard cutters were being retired in the area. He stated that the Stimson was purchased by the United States in 2000 as part of the Bering Sea crab fleet with a mission to enforce commercial fisheries in the region. He spoke about cod fishery in the area. He noted that the largest fisheries took place in the Bering Sea. 3:54:55 PM SHIRLEY MARQUARDT, MAYOR OF UNALASKA, UNALASKA (via teleconference), echoed the sentiments of Mr. Kelty. She spoke in favor of fully funded revenue sharing in the amount of $60 million. She stated that the funds were important to communities in the state that did not have a revenue base. She expressed support of the infusion of $3 million to the PERS and TRS unfunded liability. 3:57:17 PM DIRK WHITE, CHAIR, BOARD OF PHARMACY, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in favor funding for the SHARP II loan repayment program in the amount of $1.2 million. He requested funding in the amount of $100,000 to $150,000 for the Alaska prescription drug database. The program allowed a physician to determine if a person was selling drugs illegally. 3:59:56 PM AT EASE 4:31:19 PM RECONVENED ^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: HOMER, KENAI, KETCHIKAN, KODIAK, MAT-SU, SEWARD BRYAN ZAK, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He was concerned that $750,000 had been cut from the Department of Fish and Game; matching grants would not be available due to the cuts. He believed the cut would eliminate 10 full- time jobs. He opined that doing away with the reserve would not be prudent due to factors facing the oceans. 4:34:26 PM HAL SMITH, SOUTH PENINSULA HOSPITAL, HOMER (via teleconference) asked for the reinstatement of the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. He relayed that initial care and stabilization of trauma victims was critical. He discussed that funds had been essential in securing equipment and training in the hospital. He relayed that there was a quarterly meeting of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals that he would attend later in the day; trauma care funds made the gathering possible. 4:36:35 PM JIM STEARNS, KACHEMAK BAY CONSERVATION SOCIETY, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke against cuts to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He believed the cuts would eliminate the program. He shared that the funds made collaboration easier and brought research to the Homer area. The funds and positions helped to support the local economy. He urged a continuation of the funding. 4:38:14 PM LOLITA BRACHE, BEST BEGINNINGS, HOMER (via teleconference), thanked the committee for its support of early education, Parents as Teachers, and Best Beginnings. She stressed the importance of early education children. The programs supported parents with young children and helped them to teach basic skills. She spoke against cuts to the Alaska Youth First Grant Program. She stated that without education children would not grow up to be very good citizens. She urged full education funding. 4:40:30 PM MARGO REVEIL, JAKOLOF BAY OYSTER COMPANY, HOMER (via teleconference), discussed the importance of improved monitoring of shell fish. She discussed harvesting. She discussed coordinated response to Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) threats. She stated that improved education and research related to the issue would be beneficial. 4:43:12 PM GEORGE MATZ, KACHEMAK BAY RESEARCH RESERVE COMMUNITY COUNCIL, FRITZ CREEK (via teleconference) testified against the removal of the $175,000 from the governor's proposed budget. He stated that if National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funding decreased then other grants based on the operations would dry up. He stated that the cuts would result in the closure of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. 4:45:27 PM TERRI MACH, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference) encouraged support for early education programs including Best Beginnings, Parents as Teachers, and others. She shared her personal experience as a parent of a young child. She stated that early education helped families. She asked the committee to continue existing steps to provide all families with the opportunity for early education. 4:47:57 PM GRAFF COBLE, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke against the cancelation of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He stated that research reserves made sound financial sense. He opined that there were many possibilities to house the program in areas outside of the Sport Fish Division. The program addressed important items for fisheries. 4:50:05 PM ANGIE DOROFF, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference) testified in opposition to cuts related to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. She stated that the reserve met the Department of Fish and Game guidelines. She stated that the coastal training program had reached over 400 individuals. The program was designed to provide training related to coastal zones, salmon, ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and other. She asked that the legislature provide funding to access one-year matching grants. 4:52:34 PM STACY BUCKELEW, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), believed the proposed cut to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve was a poor choice. She informed the committee that the budget cut would eliminate the reserve. She stated federal funding allowed for research related to the operation of the Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, which served over 75 thousand visitors annually. The transfer of partnership of the reserve would prevent further significant debt to the state. 4:54:43 PM SHARA SUTHERTIN, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke against cuts to the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. She shared that the facility performed over 1,000 surgeries per year. She discussed certified nurses and other healthcare professionals. She stressed that the center could not operate without the funds. 4:57:17 PM JILLIAN LUSH, SPROUT FAMILY SERVICES, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of early education funding. She testified in support of the governor's proposed budget for Parents as Teachers and Best Beginnings. The funds would strengthen families. She stressed that parents were a child's first and most important teacher. She discussed the healthy development of a child. She stated that the funds had a high return on investment. She asked the committee to support the funds. 4:59:08 PM KATIE KOESTER, CITY OF HOMER, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of municipal revenue sharing. She was in support of an infusion to the retirement system. She asked for a restoration of funds to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. She shared that the $175,000 leveraged close to $600,000 in federal funds. She stated that the reserve could not obtain grants without the necessary staff to do so. 5:01:24 PM ZACHARY BROWN, SOUTH PENINSULA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. He stated that cutting funding would increase time spent on locating access to mental health care. He communicated that a financial cut would cost the state more overall. 5:02:57 PM MEGAN MURPHY, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference) asked for support for early childhood programs including Head Start and Parents as Teachers. She testified against the cuts to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. She supported funds to help the reserve locate another partner. She found cutting the program off at the knees ridiculous. 5:04:53 PM CAROL HARDING, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference) testified against the cuts to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. She stated that the Sport Fish Division made a hasty recommendation to cut funds from the reserve and had not communicated well with NOAA related to financial obligations. She quoted a letter from NOAA related to the failure to fund the reserve. 5:06:34 PM CHRIS LOPEZ, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), voiced support for the AMSEA program. He shared that no other program provided the training in Alaska. He asked for an increase in funding in FY 15 to meet necessary training demands related to commercial fishery demands. He encouraged the committee to support early education and the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. 5:08:09 PM MARIA CALHOUN, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of early education funding. She supported Parents as Teachers. She pointed to research related to the state's return on their education investment. She discussed the ability to provide nurturing to children, which had increased 18 percent. She relayed that the program contributed to a decrease in child abuse and neglect. The program enrollment had increased and had a wait list. She believed the potential for lifelong success increased when starting early in life. She asked the committee to maintain funds for Best Beginnings. 5:10:42 PM NOLAN BUNTING, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference) asked for continued funding of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He and his brother were middle and high school students in Homer. He discussed benefits of the Islands and Ocean Visitor Center. He was interested in a science major because of his exposure to the center. He stressed that the more interest that could be garnered would increase the number of professionals in research jobs in the future. The center provided a learning environment for students to observe trained scientists. He asked for continued funding for the reserve. 5:13:18 PM JIM HORNADAY, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He stated that the bay reserve was composing leading research on climate change in the northern region. The reserve was an important economic engine for the local economy. The preservation of the beauty of the climate was essential to the tourism industry. He pointed to a resolution by the City of Homer asking for the continued support of the reserve. 5:15:27 PM KRIS HOLDERIED, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), stressed strong support for continued funding of the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. She stated that the reserve provided a unique combination of coastal monitoring, research, education and professional training services. She stated that losing the reserve would devastate local research and would negatively impact the local economy. She pointed to research on algal blooms and the impact on shellfish farming. She discussed the research on developing test kits and other tools. The reserve provided a crucial service on social research. PHIL CRORDON, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding for Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. He relayed that the reserve was paid to research fish and game issues; the level of data was needed. He asked the committee to fund the $175,000 match for the reserve. 5:19:18 PM WILL SCHLEIN, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified against funding cuts to the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. 5:20:27 PM JOSEPH LUNN, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference) testified in support of funding for the Kenai Peninsula College (KPC). He shared that KPC allowed him to learn and feel at home. He spoke to in support of the non-profit organizations within KPC. 5:21:48 PM MICHAEL SKINNER, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, KENAI (via teleconference), shared his personal story as a veteran. He stated that enrolling at KPC was one of the best choices he ever made. The variety of courses had opened new opportunities and allowed him to meet other people. 5:23:48 PM SCOTT SELLERS, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding for KPC. He resided at the school and worked as a residential advisor. He thanked the committee for past support and asked for increased funding. 5:24:52 PM CHERYL TUTTLE, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), thanked the legislature for past, current, and future support of KPC. 5:25:37 PM SHAWN RODGERS, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), testified in support of KPC funding. The program had changed his life. He was no longer worried about where he would live and now had direction for his future. He urged the committee to bolster funding for the college. 5:27:26 PM KATHLEEN FITZGERALD, SELF, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference) testified in favor of Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. She was a member of the Key Coalition. She spoke as a parent of an autistic child. She referred to data supporting individuals and savings to the state of funding the CBC. She noted that funding the collaborative demonstrated Alaska's compliance with the American's with Disabilities Act. She asked for full funding of the $450,000. 5:29:31 PM SHAWNA THORNTON, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, KENAI (via teleconference), thanked the legislature for funding the university. She spoke in favor of education funding. 5:31:30 PM CARLEN WILLIAMS, S.E. AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of health career funding for post-secondary students. She stated that the Alaska Area Health Education Center Alaska (AHEC) program was her top priority. She wished for reinstatement of the item in the university budget. 5:33:23 PM CHRISTA BRUCE, S.E. AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of the AHEC program. She pointed out that AHEC helped jumpstart health careers. She stated that she was heavily involved in workforce development. She informed the committee that the program supported 40 student caregivers. She pointed out that AHEC's scope helped to provide key support for healthcare in Alaska. The university was important for the program's support by helping students with clinic rotations. 5:35:46 PM GRETCHEN KLEIN, PRINCE OF WALES HEALTH NETWORK, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified on behalf of the SHARP program for loan repayment and direct incentive for physicians and behavioral health clinicians. She noted difficulty recruiting and retaining providers and behavior health clinicians on the island. She stated that the residents working within the health network provided a stable workforce. She spoke in favor of residential treatment center funding and Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. 5:38:04 PM PAT CHAPMAN, SELF, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), urged the committee to reinstate funding for the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. She spoke in favor of reinstating the Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. 5:40:33 PM DEE WRIGHT, THE MANOR, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), stated that she owned an assisted living home. She testified in favor of reinstatement of funding for the Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. She stated that the resource was crucial to the care of the members of her assisted living home. 5:42:37 PM TELLISHA FRANKHOUSER, S.E. AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for AHEC. She stated that the support and advice offered by AHEC helped her to stay focused on school. 5:43:29 PM JOB GOVAARS, ALASKA BRAIN INJURY NETWORK, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in favor of Alaska Statewide Trauma System funding. He stated that the trauma registry was essential to his community. 5:44:38 PM SHANA CRISCOLA, PEACE HEALTH, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in favor of the SHARP program. She informed the committee that the program assisted Alaska in obtaining multiple providers in her area. She stated that upcoming solicitations were on the docket. 5:46:24 PM SHARON MONREAN, SELF, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference) testified in favor of training available through the Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. She stated that her family benefitted immensely from the training provided by the collaborative. She explained that her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, but was able to remain in his community with the help of the skills provided to her family. 5:48:06 PM DR. PATRICK BALLARD, SELF, CRAIG (via teleconference) testified in favor of funding for the SHARP program. He stated that Alaska was deficient in primary health care providers for remote areas. He stated that the program was unique to Alaska and allowed primary care providers to enter the necessary fields. He stated that student loans were the largest hurdle given to students. 5:50:35 PM PATRICIA BALLARD, SELF CRAIG (via teleconference), testified in support of the SHARP program. She stated that the SHARP program encouraged her to move her family to the rural area. The funds were paramount to attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. 5:53:00 PM BEVERLY CRUM, KETCHIKAN MEDICAL CENTER, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in favor of Alaska Statewide Trauma System funding. She stated that the program achieved a trauma designation level 4 at the Ketchikan Medical Center. She spoke about the crucial and expensive equipment purchased with the help of the program. She explained that she served many people each year with critical trauma needs. 5:55:07 PM MARITA KAPLAN, ALASKA GERIATRIC EXCHANGE NETWORK, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in favor of ALASKA GERIATRIC EXCHANGE NETWORK. She informed the committee that Alaska Geriatric Exchange Network had over 40 agencies across the state. She explained the various services provided including the management of senior centers, senior transportation systems, adult day center, in-home care and family caregiver support services. 5:57:37 PM JULIE MATWEYOU, MARINE ADVISORY PROGRAM, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of AMSEA. She stated that the commercial fishermen in Alaska had come to rely on the in-state education opportunity. She pointed out that she taught the curriculum for AMSEA in Kodiak. 5:59:15 PM JEFF STEPHAN, UNITED FISHERMAN MARKETING ASSOCIATION, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of the reinstatement of funding for the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. He stated that the investments created significant employment and improvements in his community. 6:02:13 PM KATHY WATKINS, KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT LEARNING CAFE, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in favor of the Alaska Youth First grant, which allowed internships for young adults in rural areas. The program allowed for job training within the community that segued into larger opportunities for the recipients. 6:03:19 PM RONALD VONSCHEELE, KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT LEARNING CAFE, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of the Alaska Youth First program. He stated that he joined the program to finish his diploma. He credited the program with his success finding gainful employment. He requested continued funding for the important grant option. 6:04:47 PM ART SCHULTZ, SELF, KODIAK (via teleconference) testified for the reinstatement of full funding for AMSEA. He stated that a reduction in fishing fatalities was seen as a result of the training offered by AMSEA. 6:05:58 PM MARGARET DRASKOVICH, PROVIDENCE KODIAK ISLAND MEDICAL CENTER, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in favor of reinstated funding for the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. She noted that the system allowed the best chance for a patient's outcome. She stated that the system encouraged continued improvement in provider response to trauma. 6:08:16 PM CHARLES DAVIDSON, CITY OF KODIAK, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of restoring funding for community revenue sharing. He noted that reduced youth programs, library hours and delayed street repairs would result from the decreased funding for municipalities. He expressed concerns with the relocation of the vessel Stimson and the decommissioning of the vessel Woldstad. He believed that the two patrol vessels were critically important to the state. 6:10:25 PM JOHN CANNON, MAT-SU SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS, MAT- SU (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Complex Behavior Collaborative. He shared a story of an employee injured as a result of poor training in a facility serving Alaskan's with disabilities. 6:13:15 PM GINGER RAY, MAT-SU SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. She spoke about the following testifier, Jordan Bassett who benefitted from the collaborative. The goal of the program was to encourage independence. 6:15:00 PM JORDAN BASSETT, MAT-SU SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS, MAT-SU (via teleconference), read a statement about her benefits from the Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. 6:16:38 PM KAREN NUGEN-LOGAN, NUGEN'S RANCH, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for residential treatment center funding. She stated that a reduction in funding would reduce the number of treatment beds available in Alaska. 6:18:27 PM DR. BARBARA DOTY, PRACTICING PHYSICIAN, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in favor of AHEC in the university budget. She supported the efforts of healthcare students. She supported funding for the SHARP program to encourage a stable workforce in Alaska. She encouraged the reinstatement of full funding for the Alaska Statewide Trauma System. 6:21:05 PM RACHEL GREENBERG, MAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Alaska Geriatric Exchange Network. She spoke about sustainable funding for senior centers in various communities. She noted that many areas were lacking the important services that allow seniors to remain in their own communities. She spoke in favor of funding for the NTS grant and the Family Caregiver Support grant which prevent or delay costly institutional care. 6:23:56 PM GAIL FLOYD, NUGEN'S RANCH, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in favor of funding for Residential Treatment Centers in Alaska. She stated that she was a recovering alcoholic and served on the Board of Directors for Nugen's Ranch. She stressed that the cost of alcohol and drug abuse to the state was enormous. 6:25:15 PM FRAN SEDOVIC, SELF, MAT-SU (via teleconference) testified in favor of the reinstatement of funding for Residential Treatment Centers. She informed the committee that addiction was a large problem in the valley, the state and in the country. She believed that the residential treatment method worked for people who failed in outpatient and short-term treatment. 6:25:59 PM TED BRASSEUR, NUGEN'S RANCH, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in favor of residential treatment center funding. He stated that the treatment was beneficial to him as a beneficiary of the services at Nugen's Ranch. He was successful with residential treatment after many discouraging experiences with short-term programs. He pointed out that he was an employee at Nugen's ranch. He felt that the experience in residential treatment saved his life. 6:27:11 PM JOHN LEE, MAT-SU REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of Alaska Statewide Trauma System funding. He spoke to the benefits of the standardized system provided with the funding. He informed the committee that unintentional injury was the leading cause of death in Alaska for people ages 1 to 44. He believed that trauma care was as important to the state as roads and bridges. 6:29:07 PM EMILY STEVENS, MAT-SU REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of the reinstatement of Alaska Statewide Trauma System funding. She stated that the system would fail without the funding. The evidence based system was crucial to residents of Alaska. 6:30:19 PM KEVIN MUNSON, MAT-SU HEALTH SERVICES, MAT-SU (via teleconference), expressed support of residential treatment center funding and Complex Behavior Collaborative funding. He stated that access to the services would be diminished by the decreased funding. He requested the reinstatement of funding for the SHARP program. 6:32:39 PM BRIDGET BOLIN, AKEELA HOUSE, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in favor of residential treatment center funding. She herself graduated from the Akeela program and resided in the Akeela transitional housing. She shared a story about her struggles with alcohol abuse. She benefitted greatly from the program. 6:36:34 PM Co-Chair Stoltze stated that Mr. Craig Williamson would be on the record with an email to the co-chairs. HB 266 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further consideration. HB 267 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further consideration. ADJOURNMENT 6:38:06 PM The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 p.m.