MINUTES SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE April 15, 1999 9:10 A.M. TAPES SFC-99 #91, Side A Tape Malfunction - not recorded CALL TO ORDER Co-Chair Sean Parnell convened the meeting at approximately 9:10 A.M. PRESENT Co-Chair Parnell, Senators John Torgerson, Randy Phillips, Loren Leman, Gary Wilken, Al Adams, Pete Kelly and Lyda Green. Also Attending: DWAYNE PEEPLES, Director, Division of Administrative Services, Department of Corrections. SUMMARY INFORMATION SB 30-OPERATING BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS SB 31-MENTAL HEALTH APPROPRIATIONS Co-Chair Parnell convened the meeting at approximately 9:12 A.M. He noted that the Committee would take up the budget amendments for the Office of the Governor, Department of Corrections and the University of Alaska. UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA Senator Leman referenced the University budget. He commented that the University had presented a compelling case for an increase in funding, however, he noted that the spending cap will not be able to accommodate that increase. The Subcommittee has returned a budget which would increase other Federal funds. He reiterated that there had been an $18 million increase to the University's budget. Senator Leman pointed out that it was recommended that the University look to possible other funding. He recommended that the Legislature help the University evaluate their mission in Alaska. Senator Leman added that it was the Subcommittee's intent that the full Senate Finance Committee seek options with the University. The old plans created under the previous president are no longer appropriate with the new administration. He recommended that work should be done over the interim addressing this concern. Senator Wilken spoke to the Letter of Intent. He noted that he would continue to work for increased University funding. Senator Wilken referenced a letter distributed by William R. Wood, President, University of Alaska, dated April 9, 1999. LEGISLATURE Senator Torgerson briefly reviewed the Legislature Subcommittee budget. Senator Donley commented that the Legislature had cut their budget more than any other State agency. Senator Torgerson was not aware of the exact budget figures. Co-Chair Parnell added that many staff take leave without pay. OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR Co-Chair Parnell requested the Office of the Governor budget findings. He noted that he, Senators Adams and Senator Pearce were the members of that Subcommittee. Senator Phillips inquired the current reduction percentage as compared to last year. Co-Chair Parnell replied that solid figures were not yet available. DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS Co-Chair Parnell briefly explained the Department of Corrections Subcommittee budget recommendations. The Subcommittee consisted of members Senators Parnell, Ward and Lincoln. He explained the funding for the FY99 levels. The Subcommittee will continue to reexamine the budget and work with the Department so as to achieve more budget reductions. There were no questions or objections to the morning presentations. SB 30 and SB 31 were HELD in Committee for further discussion. ADJOURNMENT Co-chair Parnell recessed the Committee at approximately 9:25 a.m. to reconvene in the later afternoon. SFC-99 (3) 11/16/99 a.m.