2003-03-06                     Senate Journal                      Page 0383
SB 36                                                                                             
SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO. 36 BY THE                                                    
SENATE 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."                                                                   

2003-03-06                     Senate Journal                      Page 0384
was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee.                                      
                                                                                                    
In accordance with AS 37.14.003(b), a report of the differences                                     
between the Governor's proposed budget and the recommendations of                                   
the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority was submitted with a letter                                
from the Office of Management and Budget.                                                           
                                                                                                    
Governor's transmittal letter dated March 5:                                                        
                                                                                                    
Dear President Therriault:                                                                          
                                                                                                    
The comprehensive mental health budget bill delivered today contains                                
my proposal for the 2004 fiscal year.                                                               
                                                                                                    
This Administration has gone through an extensive process to evaluate                               
state programs in order to prepare the state budget. Given our current                              
financial situation, many programs are held at current levels, some are                             
reduced, and a few are eliminated. A copy of the report to the Mental                               
Health Trust Authority is attached.                                                                 
                                                                                                    
I look forward to working closely with this Legislature to jointly craft                            
a responsive state budget that efficiently provides Alaska residents                                
essential state services at a cost that the state can afford over the long-                         
term.                                                                                               
                                                                                                    
Sincerely yours,                                                                                    
/s/                                                                                                 
Frank H. Murkowski                                                                                  
Governor