Legislature(1995 - 1996)
1995-09-27 House Journal
Full Journal pdf1995-09-27 House Journal Page 2329 realizing considerable savings to the state. Unfortunately, this very positive legislation was amended in the Senate during the final days of the legislative session and that amendment now warrants my veto. The adopted change exempts the Alaska State Marine Highway System, both vessels and terminals, from the purview of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation's Business Enterprise Program. This program, in state statute since 1976, provides an opportunity for an individual who is blind or has other severe disabilities to obtain gainful employment by operating a vending facility on state property. However, the change embodied in HB 288 undermines this program and the continued success of this training and employment opportunity for the blind and severely disabled. I am distressed that two excellent provisions of state law will be lost with this veto. Nonetheless, I cannot in good conscience sign HB 288 knowing that the Business Enterprise Program is seriously weakened by this legislation. With my veto, I am providing this administration an opportunity to positively address the concerns of the Marine Highway System while guaranteeing the continued success of the HB 288 Business Enterprise Program. I am confident that it is possible to draft a mutually beneficial arrangement that will have the broad support of all affected parties. Together we can design and implement a new partnership for the benefit of all Alaskans. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor" SB 71 A message dated June 30, 1995, was received stating the Governor has signed the following bill and is transmitting the engrossed and enrolled copies to the Lieutenant Governor's office for permanent filing: