1999-01-21                     House Journal                      Page 0049
HB 51                                                                        
HOUSE BILL NO. 51 by the House Rules Committee by request of                   
the Governor, entitled:                                                        
                                                                               
"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."                                 
                                                                               
was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee.                 
                                                                               
A spreadsheet from the Office of Management and Budget, titled "FY             
2000 Governor's Mental Health Trust Operating and Capital Budgets,"            
was attached and is on file in the Chief Clerk's office.                       

1999-01-21                     House Journal                      Page 0050
HB 51                                                                        
The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 20, 1999, appears              
below:                                                                         
                                                                               
"Dear Speaker Porter:                                                          
                                                                               
As part of the budget package I present to the Legislature today, I am         
transmitting this separate appropriation bill for the states integrated,       
comprehensive mental health program.  This bill includes both                  
operating and capital appropriations.  As required by statute, I have          
attached a report of the differences between my proposed budget and            
the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority.               
                                                                               
Alaska has made great progress in serving mental health settlement             
beneficiaries and emphasizing community-based services.  This                  
proposed FY2000 mental health bill continues that progress with state          
general funds and Trust Authority receipts.  In addition, Alaska               
Housing Finance Corporation receipts are used for housing-related              
capital projects.                                                              
                                                                               
This bill is a comprehensive package that has been developed through           
a positive and productive working relationship between my                      
Administration, members of the Board of Trustees, and their staff.  We         
look forward to working with the Legislature to support these proposed         
investments for Trust beneficiaries.                                           
                                                                               
							Sincerely,                                                              
							/s/                                                                     
							Tony Knowles                                                            
							Governor"