Legislature(2009 - 2010)
2010-01-19 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1217 SENATE JOURNAL ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE TWENTY-SIXTH LEGISLATURE SECOND SESSION Juneau, Alaska Tuesday January 19, 2010 First Day Pursuant to adjournment the Senate was called to order by President Stevens at 1:35 p.m. The roll showed nineteen members present. Senator Bunde was absent. Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that Senator Bunde be excused to evening plane time today. Without objection, Senator Bunde was excused. Representative Joule and Representative Gruenberg called on the Senate to advise that the House of Representatives was in session and ready to do business. Colors The following members of the Tongass Alaska Girl Scout Council presented the colors: Marlena Belknap Chantel Eckland Amber Kahklen Asianna Mazon Ashley Murphy Annika Pearson Catriona Pearson Nicole Nelson Jenalee Phang Summer Putman Grace Terry Teja Tolbert Sommer Ward Rebekah Peterson The Girl Scouts led the Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1218 Alaska Flag Song and National Anthem The Alaska Youth Choir, directed by Missouri Smyth, performed the Alaska Flag Song and the National Anthem. Invocation The prayer was offered by the Chaplain, The Reverend George Silides of the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Senator Hoffman moved and asked unanimous consent that the prayer be spread. Without objection, it was so ordered. O God our Creator, Provider and Sustainer: From your hands come every wealth of land and sea, every wealth of mind and muscle. We ask your blessing upon those who gather this day to dedicate themselves to use that wealth for the well-being of this Great Land and all her people. For the opportunity to steward these gifts to the welfare of all Alaskans far into a fruitful future, we are humbly grateful. Upon this body; and upon our governor, our courts, and all who have offered themselves for election and service, we ask your Providence and guiding hand. Great tasks lie ahead of them, and great strength will be asked of them. Prudence, wisdom and perseverance will be asked of them as well. As they labor, where there is any danger that these might fail them, we ask that you provide them. But above all things, 0 Lord, we ask that a great love for the people of this land prevail and permeate every work they do here; a love which sustains and nourishes, a love which calls from each the finest in themselves, a love which curbs a lesser thought for self or advantage over others. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1219 Grant us, we pray also good will and good humor, that we may see the best in one another, forgive more easily ourselves and others, and work for the common good across barriers and misunderstandings of every kind. To newer members of this House, send wise mentors; to those longer serving, inform their leadership with charity and foresight. For the fresh new day and every hope this day provides, we are thankful. Protect those hopes, we pray, and the hopes of every person who looks to this government for their due process and equal protection. With grateful hearts we pray your blessing upon all those who have given these servants to our service for a season. May their homes and families suffer no hardship for this gift, and may all be timely reunited. Your Peace be upon this Body, Amen. President Stevens appointed Senator Egan and Senator Wagoner to inform the Governor that the Senate was in session and ready to do business. President Stevens appointed Senator Huggins and Senator Thomas to inform the House that the Senate was in session and ready to do business. Certification Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the journal for the first legislative day of the First Special Session, Senate Journal Supplement No. 3 and Senate and House Joint Journal Supplement No. 8 be approved as certified by the Secretary. Without objection, it was so ordered. Messages from the Governor Message dated October 9, 2009 was received stating: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1220 Dear President Stevens: Pursuant to AS 15.40.320, I appoint John Coghill to the vacancy in Senate District F. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor Appointment Confirmation The Senate Republicans' response, dated October 22, 2009, was read: Dear Governor Parnell, The nine Senate Republicans have met and discussed your nomination of Representative John Coghill to fill the vacant seat in Senate District F. We are pleased to inform you that Mr. Coghill has received unanimous support to be confirmed to this seat. Signing the letter: Senators Stevens, Bunde, Dyson, Huggins, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Stedman, Wagoner. Lieutenant Governor Campbell administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Coghill on October 27, 2009. President Stevens officially welcomed Senator Coghill as a member of the Twenty-sixth Alaska State Senate. Messages from the Governor (continued) Letter dated September 2 was read, stating in accordance with AS 44.19.040 and Article III, Section 13 of the Alaska Constitution, I submit the following name for legislative confirmation of appointment to the position noted: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1221 Lieutenant Governor Successor Lawrence L. Hartig The appointment was referred to the State Affairs Committee. Messages from the House Messages dated January 16 were read stating: The House of Representatives respectfully invites the Senate to a Joint Session of the Twenty-sixth Alaska Legislature at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20 for the purpose of hearing the Governor's annual State of the State message. Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the Senate accept the House invitation to meet in Joint Session. Without objection, it was so ordered. The Secretary was requested to notify the House. The House of Representatives respectfully invites the Senate to a Joint Session of the Twenty-sixth Alaska Legislature at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 18 for the purpose of hearing Senator Lisa Murkowski's annual message to the Legislature. Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the Senate accept the House invitation to meet in Joint Session. Without objection, it was so ordered. The Secretary was requested to notify the House. Communications The following letter dated September 10, 2009 was received stating: Dear Senator Stevens: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1222 As discussed on August 21st in our telephone conversation, I am formally tendering my letter of resignation from Senate Seat F of the Alaska State Legislature effective at the close of business September 13, 2009. While it has been a great privilege to serve the people of my district for the past 17 years on the floor of both the Alaska House of Representatives and the Alaska Senate, I am pleased that I will be able to continue my service to Alaskans in a new role with the Parnell Administration. I look forward to working with you and the Senate in the future. Sincerely, /s/ Senator Gene Therriault Senate District F The following report is on file in the Office of the Secretary of the Senate: Local Boundary Commission Statement of Decision and Dissenting Opinion from Lynn Chrystal, Chair Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development in accordance with Article X, section 12 of the Alaska Constitution available at: http://www.commerce.state.ak.us/dca/lbc/fairbanks_2.htm President Stevens referred the Statement of Decision and Dissenting Opinion to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. Recess Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the Senate stand in recess. Without objection, the Senate recessed at 2:04 p.m. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1223 After Recess The Senate reconvened at 2:15 p.m. Special Committee Reports Committee on Committees Report Mr. President: Your Committee on Committees has met and submits to the Senate for its consideration the following change to the Committee on Committees reports adopted January 20, 2009, and August 10, 2009: Judiciary Committee Senator Coghill replaces Senator Therriault as a member The report was signed by Senator Stevens, Chair; Senator Ellis, Vice Chair; Senators Hoffman, Huggins, Stedman. Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the Committee on Committees report be adopted. Without objection, the Committee on Committees report was adopted. Introduction and Reference of Senate Resolutions SJR 23 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 23 BY SENATOR DYSON, Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to the authority of the legislature and certain members or former members of the legislature to intervene in litigation in which a law is challenged or subject to interpretation. (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1224 SJR 24 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 24 BY SENATOR FRENCH, Proposing amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to the Alaska permanent fund, establishing the earnings reserve account, and relating to the permanent fund dividend. (Prefile released 01/15/10) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. SJR 25 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 25 BY SENATORS BUNDE, Olson, Kookesh, Wagoner, Dyson, Urging the United States Congress to reject S. 1535 and H.R. 3381, the Protect America's Wildlife Act of 2009, which seek to limit aerial hunting of wildlife. was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. SCR 12 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 12 BY SENATORS MEYER, McGuire, Proclaiming September 9, 2010, as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day. was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services Committee. SR 9 SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 9 BY SENATORS OLSON, Hoffman, Ellis, French, Stevens, Meyer, Stedman, Bunde, Egan, Coghill, McGuire, Wielechowski, Menard, Paskvan, Kookesh, Davis, French, Dyson, Thomas, Dedicating a committee room in the Thomas B. Stewart Legislative Office Building to former Senator William Beltz. was read the first time. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1225 Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the resolution be taken up at this time. Without objection, it was so ordered. The question being: "Shall SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 9 Dedicating a committee room in the Thomas B. Stewart Legislative Office Building to former Senator William Beltz, pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SR 9 Final Passage YEAS: 19 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 1 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Coghill, Davis, Dyson, Egan, Ellis, French, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Stevens, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Excused: Bunde and so, SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 9 passed the Senate and was referred to the Secretary for engrossment and enrollment. Introduction and Reference of Senate Bills SB 195 SENATE BILL NO. 195 BY SENATOR THOMAS, entitled: "An Act relating to the repeal of the establishment of the Goldstream Public Use Area." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. SB 196 SENATE BILL NO. 196 was not offered. (Prefile released 01/08/10) SB 197 SENATE BILL NO. 197 BY SENATOR DYSON, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1226 "An Act allowing pharmacists the right to refuse to refer, recommend, or dispense emergency contraceptives; providing immunity to a pharmacy for civil liability for a pharmacist's refusal to refer, recommend, or dispense emergency contraceptives; and prohibiting discrimination in employment against a pharmacist who refuses to refer, recommend, or dispense emergency contraceptives." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Judiciary Committees. SB 198 SENATE BILL NO. 198 BY SENATOR DYSON, entitled: "An Act relating to criminal and civil liability for failure to report certain child abuse or neglect." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Judiciary Committees. SB 199 SENATE BILL NO. 199 BY SENATORS ELLIS, Davis, Egan, French, Menard, Olson, Paskvan, Thomas, Wielechowski, Kookesh, entitled: "An Act providing for a two-year funding cycle for medical assistance coverage for dentures." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Finance Committees. SB 200 SENATE BILL NO. 200 BY SENATOR DYSON, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1227 "An Act relating to and permitting certain uses and occupancies of real property that do not comply with changes made to municipal land use ordinances." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs and State Affairs Committees. SB 201 SENATE BILL NO. 201 BY SENATORS MENARD AND HUGGINS, entitled: "An Act relating to the municipal property tax exemption on residences of certain seniors and others; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees. SB 202 SENATE BILL NO. 202 BY SENATOR DAVIS, entitled: "An Act relating to the commission of a crime when the defendant directed the conduct constituting the crime at the victim based on the victim's race, sex, color, creed, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, ancestry, or national origin." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. SB 203 SENATE BILL NO. 203 BY SENATORS FRENCH AND WIELECHOWSKI, entitled: "An Act relating to a tax credit for a facility to store Cook Inlet gas for sale and delivery in the state; relating to an exemption from the oil and gas 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1228 exploration, production, and pipeline transportation property tax for a facility that stores Cook Inlet gas for sale and delivery in the state; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. SB 204 SENATE BILL NO. 204 BY SENATOR DYSON, entitled: "An Act relating to state employee health plans that give employees the option to select a federally qualified high deductible health plan and requiring employees who select that plan to establish a health savings account." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. SB 205 SENATE BILL NO. 205 BY SENATORS WIELECHOWSKI AND FRENCH, entitled: "An Act relating to the power of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska to fix rates after an investigation and hearing." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO. 205 BY SENATORS WIELECHOWSKI AND FRENCH, entitled: "An Act relating to the power of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska to adjust a rate charged or to be changed by a public utility that is a commercial 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1229 enterprise operating for profit when the commission determines that the rate or a factor affecting that rate compensates for a utility's negligent conduct, recklessness, or intentional violation of a law." was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. SB 206 SENATE BILL NO. 206 BY SENATOR ELLIS, entitled: "An Act making special appropriations for new engineering buildings for the University of Alaska in Anchorage and Fairbanks." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 207 SENATE BILL NO. 207 BY SENATOR DAVIS, entitled: "An Act establishing a preschool to age 16 education council in the Department of Education and Early Development; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released 01/08/10) SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO. 207 BY SENATOR DAVIS, entitled: "An Act establishing a preschool to postsecondary education council in the Department of Education and Early Development; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 208 SENATE BILL NO. 208 BY SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1230 "An Act requiring the Department of Natural Resources to evaluate current incentives and recommend additional incentives that would increase gas exploration, development, and production in the Cook Inlet sedimentary basin; and requiring the Department of Natural Resources to evaluate the means by which the department may explore for, purchase, and sell natural gas from newly proved gas reserves in the Cook Inlet sedimentary basin." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. SB 209 SENATE BILL NO. 209 BY SENATOR MENARD, entitled: "An Act providing the Alaska State Council on the Arts the authority to adopt regulations relating to its statutory powers and duties; and providing for an effective date." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Education and Judiciary Committees. SB 210 SENATE BILL NO. 210 BY SENATOR HUGGINS, entitled: "An Act establishing child custody, modification, and visitation standards for a military parent who is deployed; and amending Rule 99, Alaska Rules of Civil Procedure." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. SB 211 SENATE BILL NO. 211 BY SENATOR ELLIS, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1231 "An Act relating to the disposition of proceeds from the alcoholic beverage tax and to the alcohol and other drug abuse treatment and prevention fund." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Finance Committees. SB 212 SENATE BILL NO. 212 BY SENATOR EGAN, entitled: "An Act authorizing municipalities to designate energy improvements areas and to establish energy improvements programs and relating to those programs." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees. SB 213 SENATE BILL NO. 213 BY SENATORS WIELECHOWSKI, McGuire, Ellis, entitled: "An Act providing for funding for school lunch and breakfast." (Prefile released 01/08/10) was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 214 SENATE BILL NO. 214 BY SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI, entitled: "An Act relating to penalties for cruelty to animals." (Prefile released 01/15/10) was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary Committee. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1232 SB 215 SENATE BILL NO. 215 BY SENATORS WIELECHOWSKI, OLSON, KOOKESH, ELLIS AND DAVIS, entitled: "An Act requiring the Department of Health and Social Services to accept federal prescription drug benefits or to provide comparable benefits for residents of the Alaska Pioneers' Home." (Prefile released 01/15/10) was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Finance Committees. SB 216 SENATE BILL NO. 216 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to grants to victims of a disaster in this state; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs Governor's transmittal letter dated January 8: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that increases the existing limit on State grants for major disaster victims in the State of Alaska. This bill would change an existing limitation on the Governor's authority to issue assistance grants to victims of a major disaster in this state, which has not been updated for nearly 20 years. Under current law, when the Governor declares a disaster emergency, a grant can only be provided to a victim of the disaster in this state in an amount not to exceed $5,000. After witnessing the widespread disaster of the 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1233 2009 spring floods, it has become obvious that the maximum amount of $5,000 per household is not enough to cover incurred costs from damages in today's economy. It is clearly time to revise the limit and give the State the ability to provide improved relief to victims of major disasters in this state. This proposed legislation increases the maximum amount that can be granted to a household in 2010 to $14,950 for a State-declared disaster. This is calculated by setting it at half of the amount of a federally declared disaster. The amount will be adjusted each year based upon the consumer price index. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 217 SENATE BILL NO. 217 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to the issuance of state-guaranteed revenue bonds by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to finance mortgages for qualifying veterans; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Revenue Governor's transmittal letter dated January 12: Dear President Stevens, 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1234 Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the issuance of state-guaranteed revenue bonds by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to finance mortgages for qualifying veterans. Alaska has one of the largest percentages of veterans of any state in the nation. This bill will provide continuation of guaranteed veteran housing loans, by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation. Passage of this legislation is necessary to assure this progress continues. The State of Alaska is one of only a few states that receives favorable treatment under the Internal Revenue Code for guaranteed veterans bonds. This program is designed to provide the lowest possible interest rates to our veterans, without any income limitations. The accompanying bill would provide for a statewide vote at the next general election on authorizing $600 million in Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) bonds for qualifying veterans. This would be the sixth such bond approval; the voters authorized a total of $2.7 billion in state-guaranteed AHFC veterans bonds in five elections between 1982 and 2002. AHFC has issued nearly all of those bonds, requiring new authorization. The need for continuing this guaranteed housing loan program for veterans may well increase. Congress has recently expanded the current Internal Revenue Service Code definition of "qualified veterans" to include participants who have served in the more recent years and who were honorably discharged. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 218 SENATE BILL NO. 218 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1235 "An Act suspending the motor fuel tax; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Revenue Governor's transmittal letter dated January 12: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that provides for a two-year suspension of the State's motor fuel tax. Alaskans continue to face some of the highest food, fuel, and living costs in the nation. These costs are placing a very difficult burden on many Alaskans. In order to help every Alaskan family I am proposing that the State motor fuel tax be suspended for a period of two years. The actual amount of money saved by suspending the fuel tax would vary depending on the type of fuel being purchased; however, most consumers should save eight cents per gallon when filling up their vehicles. It is important to note that while the motor fuel tax suspension program would provide temporary assistance, we still need to work together to seek long term solutions to the energy cost issues facing us. My administration's goals to make greater in-state use of our own oil, gas, and coal, increase our renewables, support greater conservation efforts, and continue to provide help for Alaskans who need it, will help reduce energy costs in the long term. It is the needs of Alaska's families, communities, and businesses that justify the proposal contained in this legislation. I believe that we should lighten the burden placed on residents by our higher gasoline costs, whenever we can. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1236 I urge your prompt and favorable action on this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 219 SENATE BILL NO. 219 BY SENATORS MCGUIRE, Ellis, entitled: "An Act establishing a traumatic brain injury program and registry within the Department of Health and Social Services; and relating to medical assistance coverage for traumatic brain injury services." was read the first time and referred to the Health and Social Services and Finance Committees. SB 220 SENATE BILL NO. 220 BY THE SENATE RESOURCES COMMITTEE, entitled: "An Act declaring a state energy policy; relating to energy efficiency and alternative energy; establishing the energy efficiency grant fund, an emerging energy technology fund, a renewable energy production tax credit, and an energy use index; and relating to a fuel purchasing cooperative, to energy codes and efficiency standards, to energy conservation targets in public buildings, to a state agency energy use reduction plan, to the alternative energy revolving loan fund, and to the renewable energy grant fund." was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. SB 221 SENATE BILL NO. 221 BY SENATORS STEVENS, McGuire, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1237 "An Act establishing an advisory task force on higher education in the legislative branch of government; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. SB 222 SENATE BILL NO. 222 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to the crimes of harassment, possession of child pornography, and distribution of indecent material to a minor; relating to suspending imposition of sentence and conditions of probation or parole for certain sex offenses; relating to aggravating factors in sentencing; relating to registration as a sex offender or child kidnapper; amending Rule 16, Alaska Rules of Criminal Procedure; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Administration Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Corrections Fiscal Note No. 3, zero, Department of Administration Fiscal Note No. 4, zero, Department of Law Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that provides Alaska law enforcement and other agencies the resources needed to prevent sexual assault and domestic violence crimes in Alaska. Sexual assault and domestic violence crimes destroy individuals and families and erode the foundation of a just society. Alaska's challenge is to stop child pornography, sexual assault, and sexual abuse of minors in addition to ending the cycle of domestic violence. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1238 Alaska's criminal laws concerning domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual abuse of a minor, and child pornography are strong. However, a few changes would improve prosecution of these offenses. The bill will adopt a class A misdemeanor for offensive touching that does not arise to sexual assault in the first, second, or third degree. It will also adopt a class C felony, the offense of knowingly accessing child pornography on a computer, and extends the prohibition of distributing indecent material to a minor to all forms of distribution. The bill provides that a person convicted of human trafficking or possession or distribution of child pornography may not be given a suspended imposition of sentence. It will specify conditions of probation for child predators that allow a court to forbid the defendant from using a computer or internet site, and prohibit contact with children. The bill will give the courts more discretion in sentencing defendants. Specifically, it allows a court to increase a person's sentence above the usual sentencing range if the defendant knew that the victim was particularly vulnerable as a result of having consumed alcohol or drugs. It will also allow an increased sentence if the crime is a felony and is committed against a person whom the offender is in a relationship of trust, such as dating or sexual relationship, or the offence entails a defendant is 18 years of age or older and has sexual contact with a minor under 13 years of age. Sex offenders and child kidnappers required to register elsewhere should not be able to come to Alaska and avoid registration. The bill will make it mandatory for registered sex offenders in another state or child kidnapper in another state to register in Alaska when the intention is to live in Alaska. This would apply even when Alaska does not have a substantive law that is similar to the crime the person committed. Finally, the bill protects victims of child pornography from being victimized or traumatized by the pre-trial discovery process in a criminal prosecution. While it allows the pornographic material to be inspected by the defendant, defense counsel, and experts the defense may use, it prohibits copying the material and must remain in the possession of law enforcement. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1239 I urge your prompt and favorable consideration of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 223 SENATE BILL NO. 223 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act authorizing and relating to the issuance of bonds by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation; establishing the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund and relating to the fund; authorizing municipalities and the State of Alaska to borrow money from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation for the purposes of the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Senate Special Committee on Energy and Finance Committee. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Revenue Fiscal Note No. 2, zero, Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill authorizing and relating to the issuance of bonds by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation; establishing the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund and relating to the fund; and authorizing municipalities and the State of Alaska to borrow money from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation for the purposes of the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1240 The Federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 appropriated $28.3 million to Alaska for the State Energy Program. Of that, I recommended spending $18 million to make energy efficiency improvements to public buildings. The bill leverages that $18 million by allowing the AHFC to issue up to $250 million in bonds for the purpose of financing energy efficiency improvements to state and municipal buildings in the state. The bill creates the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund within AHFC. All earnings and loan payments would be retained by the fund for future loans. Money and other assets of the Alaska energy efficiency revolving loan fund may be used to make loans to municipal governments or to state agencies for the purpose of financing energy efficiency improvements to buildings owned by municipalities in the state or by the State of Alaska. As an example, a municipal government or school district would have an energy audit done on its building. That audit might determine that $120,000 in work would make the building more energy efficient and that those improvements would reduce energy costs by $20,000 a year. The local government could take out a loan with the AHFC to do the work and then repay the loan with the funds made available due to the savings achieved through the energy efficiency improvements. After the debt is settled, those funds would be available to that government for other purposes or to reduce the size of the budget. This program will result in less energy used by public buildings as well as ultimately saving public money. Alaska's economy will also benefit from contracted projects, and will put Alaskans to work. I urge your prompt and favorable consideration of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 224 SENATE BILL NO. 224 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1241 "An Act establishing the governor's performance scholarship program and relating to the program; establishing the governor's performance scholarship fund and relating to the fund; relating to student records; making conforming amendments; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Education and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Labor and Workforce Development Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Revenue Fiscal Note No. 3, Department of Education and Early Development Fiscal Note No. 4, Department of Education and Early Development Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that will create a merit-based scholarship program for Alaska high school students who pursue higher education in Alaska. This legislation, referred to as the Governor's Performance Scholarship (GPS), is patterned after successful scholarship programs in 22 other states. The GPS will improve high school graduation rates, prepare students for college or job training, provide Alaskan students with affordable opportunities for higher education, sustain Alaska's economy with a capable workforce, and retain equipped, hardworking Alaskan students. This bill provides four tiers of scholarship payment for qualified high school graduates. Three of these tiers would be designated for academic scholarships, and the fourth for career and technical school scholarships. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1242 The key feature of the scholarship program is that it is merit-based. All students who participate will be required to complete a more rigorous high school curriculum consisting of four years of language arts, mathematics, and science, and three years of social studies. Students will also be evaluated according to standards established for their grade-point averages and scores on college entrance or work-ready examinations. The program will provide an incentive for students to challenge themselves in high school and to graduate. It also provides an impetus for schools to enhance curriculum. Studies have shown that students who take a rigorous curriculum in high school are more likely to do well in college and job training programs. Thus, the scholarship recipients will be more likely to achieve their certification or degree. Students who achieve the highest attainable grade point average and examination scores will be awarded the highest tier of the academic scholarship for an Alaska-based college or university. This tier will equal the full cost of tuition at an Alaskan university for the 2010- 2011 school year. The second and third tiers of the academic scholarship will be 75 and 50 percent the amount of respective tuition. Students will be eligible for the academic scholarship for a maximum of eight semesters. Students who qualify for a career or technical school scholarship will receive an award of full fees for training, the maximum at $3,000 per year. The career and technical scholarship may be used by a student for up to two years. The GPS will only be accessible to Alaska residents. However, this bill will allow that Alaskan military members and their families will not lose eligibility on account of their service. The bill will require that money from these scholarships will only be spent at qualified Alaska post-secondary institutions or training programs. Students educated in the state are more likely to remain in the state. This provision encourages our best and brightest young people to remain in the state and prepare qualified Alaskan workers for Alaskan jobs. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1243 The GPS program contains a "use it or lose it" provision: students will have a six-year window to apply the scholarship to a postsecondary institution. This protects the State of Alaska from an extended liability. As previously stated, the bill will provide extensions for Alaskans who serve in the military. The GPS will be administered by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education. Regulations will be adopted to govern the program, grade- point average standard, eligibility criteria and an appeals process to consider extraordinary circumstances. The Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education will adopt regulations for streamlined application, award, and continuing eligibility standards. Also, this bill will establish a fund whose earnings could be used to pay for scholarships. The proposed fund is based on other funds established in statute, such as the Alaska Veterans' Memorial endowment fund, and will be managed by the Department of Revenue. Nothing in this bill will establish a dedicated fund. The GPS is modeled after the famous "Taylor plan," established by private businessman, Patrick Taylor, to keep students in school and motivate them to pursue successful postsecondary education. Currently, twenty-two states have "Taylor like" state-sponsored plans. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 225 SENATE BILL NO. 225 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to the grant of certain state land to the University of Alaska; relating to the duties of the Board of Regents; relating to deposits made to the 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1244 Alaska permanent fund received from certain lands conveyed to the University of Alaska; ratifying and reauthorizing certain prior conveyances of land to the University of Alaska; making conforming amendments; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Revenue Fiscal Note No. 2, University of Alaska Fiscal Note No. 3, indeterminate, Department of Natural Resources Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to: the grant of certain State lands to the University of Alaska; the duties of the Board of Regents; the deposits made to the Alaska Permanent Fund received from lands conveyed to the University of Alaska; ratifying and reauthorizing certain prior conveyances of land to the University of Alaska; and making conforming amendments. th This bill will fulfill a promise made at the turn of the 20 century, when Congress promised 350,000 acres of land to the former Alaska Territorial College and School of Mines. However, since Statehood in 1959, most of this promised land has never materialized. Today, at 140,000 acres, the University of Alaska has one of the smallest land grants in the United States. Even Rhode Island's university land grant is larger. The intent of the land grants is to provide the university with a portfolio of land that will enhance its financial position and further its educational mission. Land grant colleges and universities are common throughout the United States. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1245 Final resolution to this much overdue commitment is something I have and continue to strongly support. During my tenure in the Legislature I advocated for, and the Legislature passed, several pieces of University Land Grant legislation. By introducing this legislation I've committed to the purpose of the legislation passed in 2005 and removed constitutional issues created by that legislation. The bill will convey approximately 199,838 acres of State land to the University of Alaska. The Legislature will specify revenue generated by the University of Alaska's management of the land be managed as university receipts, subject to appropriation each year by the Legislature. This bill ratifies and reauthorizes the land conveyances in legislation enacted in 2000 (ch. 136, SLA 2000) and 2005 (ch. 8, FSSLA 2005). These statutes were found by the Alaska Supreme Court, in Southeast Alaska Conservation Council v. State, 202 P.3d 1162 (Alaska 2009) to violate Art. IX, Sec. 7 (the dedicated funds section) of the Constitution of the State of Alaska, because the statutes specified that revenue generated from the University of Alaska's management of the land was to be deposited in the University of Alaska's endowment trust fund. The Alaska Supreme Court found that the dedication provisions of the statutes could not be severed from the land conveyance provisions, rendering the entirety of the legislation unconstitutional, except for the provisions pertaining to the university research forest. The bill explicitly states the intent to convey the land to the University of Alaska, notwithstanding that revenue generated from the land may not be dedicated to the University of Alaska's endowment trust. The bill addresses the constitutional infirmity by specifying that revenue generated from the University of Alaska's management of the land is to be managed as university receipts, subject to appropriation each year by the Legislature. The land to be conveyed in this bill to the University of Alaska will be the land originally designated in the final 2005 legislation (ch. 8, FSSLA 2005), with the exception of two parcels that were conveyed under separate statutory authority and the university research forest. The bill refers to the land identified in the document titled, "University of Alaska Land Grant List 2005," dated January 12, 2005. This land list was arrived at after more than a year of intense work by the 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1246 Department of Natural Resources (department) and the University of Alaska to identify land that may be conveyed to the University of Alaska without unreasonably conflicting with programs associated with, and uses of, State land managed by the department. The land list in the bill reflects changes made by the Legislature during the 2005 session, including the Legislature's decision to drop certain parcels that were on the original list provided in January 2005. The bill will also include language added by the Legislature to protect land for possible municipal entitlement selections by the City and Borough of Wrangell and possible borough in the Petersburg area. Before the Alaska Supreme Court declared the prior land conveyance statutes unconstitutional (ch. 136, SLA 2000 and ch. 8, FSSLA 2005), the department had completed conveyance of 31 of the 52 available parcels identified in the land list. The bill ratifies and reauthorizes these conveyances, as well as provides authority for conveyance of the remaining 21 parcels. The bill also includes requirements for management of university land, such as public notice and comment opportunities on proposals for land development, exchange, or sale. Additionally, the bill exempts certain sensitive business and economic information regarding sale, lease, or development of university land from the public records production requirements of AS 40.25.100 - 40.25.295 (Alaska Public Records Act). These provisions reflect the 2005 legislation. The prior land conveyance statutes included a provision for establishment of a university research forest. This provision is not included in this bill since the Alaska Supreme Court found that the provision in the prior legislation could be severed from the unconstitutional dedication provisions, and it was therefore upheld as constitutional. The bill also contains a provision authorizing the deposit to the Alaska Permanent Fund of 25 percent of receipts from certain lands conveyed to the University of Alaska. A copy of the "University of Alaska Land Grant List 2005" has been provided to the Legislature and is available upon request from the Department of Natural Resources. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1247 I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure, which will complete the State's efforts to provide a beneficial educational and income-producing land base to the University of Alaska, while complying with the dedicated funds section of the Constitution of the State of Alaska. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 226 SENATE BILL NO. 226 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act providing for, relating to, and approving the issuance of certificates of participation for the construction, acquisition, and equipping of the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory in Anchorage; providing notice of and authorizing the commissioner of the Department of Administration to enter into a lease-purchase agreement with the Department of Public Safety for the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory; providing for, relating to, and approving the issuance of certificates of participation for the design, construction, acquisition, and equipping of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building in Fairbanks; providing notice of and authorizing the commissioner of the Department of Administration to enter into a lease- purchase agreement with the University of Alaska for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building; authorizing the University of Alaska to issue revenue bonds for the construction, acquisition, and equipping of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building in Fairbanks; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1248 The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Revenue Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill allowing the issuance of certificates of participation for the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory and the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building. The Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory will serve Alaska's citizens by providing a modern facility with advanced technological capabilities to effectively and efficiently process and analyze evidence. Many necessary improvements in the existing facility have not taken place since its original construction in 1986. While staff are currently able to ensure that evidence is protected and tested according to the highest standards, increasing demands and modernization require better facilities for the work of forensic science in criminal justice investigations. New technologies and added analysis will assist Alaska's law enforcement with arson investigations, cases involving trace evidence, latent fingerprints, ballistic identification, and more. Unfortunately, the existing outdated and overcrowded crime lab is insufficient to accommodate the increased workloads. The design of the new crime lab includes all the necessary elements to optimize the use of DNA evidence and other crucial tools for solving crimes. Providing justice to victims and ensuring Alaska remains on the leading edge for implementing effective criminal justice tools is critically important. The University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Facility will meet critical needs for modern classrooms, teaching laboratories, and crucial research space to allow continued growth in many successful life sciences programs. Every dollar of State funds invested in research yields six dollars in research funding from other sources - funding that leads to new jobs and spending throughout the state. In 2007, 2,392 jobs were supported by University of Alaska research spending, resulting in a combined payroll of $92,000,000. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1249 Life science research benefits Alaska and her citizens through advances made in biological sciences, biomedicine and health, ecosystem and global change science, wildlife biology, population genetics, and Alaska Native health issues. Potential discoveries related to obesity, SIDS, avian flu, food safety, and nutrition, climate change, wildlife management, heart attacks, and traumatic brain injury are just a few examples of research projects currently underway with long- term statewide benefits. It is appropriate that these advances be made by Alaskans in Alaska. By educating our young people in these fields, we can prepare students for high-demand biological science careers. Investment in both of these projects will inject new dollars into the statewide economy. Construction of the facilities will also provide jobs for Alaskans. Section 1 of the bill sets out legislative findings and intent related to the financing of the construction, acquisition, and equipping of the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory in Anchorage. Section 2 of the bill provides that the lease payments under the lease- purchase agreements for the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory are subject to annual appropriation by the Legislature. Section 3 of the bill authorizes the Department of Public Safety to enter into a lease-purchase agreement related to the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory. This section also authorizes the issuance of certificates of participation to finance the construction, acquisition, and equipping of the laboratory. Section 4 of the bill authorizes the University of Alaska to enter into a lease-purchase agreement related to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building. This section also authorizes the issuance of certificates of participation to finance the design, construction, acquisition, and equipping of the building. Section 5 of the bill authorizes the University of Alaska to issue revenue bonds to partially finance the construction, acquisition, and equipping of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Life Sciences Building. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1250 Section 6 of the bill provides that Sections 3 - 5 of the bill constitute the legislative notice and approval of lease-purchase agreements required by AS 36.30.085, and the legislative notice and approval of certain University of Alaska financing required by AS 14.40.253. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 227 SENATE BILL NO. 227 BY SENATOR PASKVAN, entitled: "An Act relating to public accounting; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. SB 228 SENATE BILL NO. 228 BY SENATORS MCGUIRE, Wielechowski, entitled: "An Act providing for an industrial incentive investment tax credit and including a gas-to-liquids facility as an eligible investment; and providing for a production tax limit on gas used as a raw material for producing liquids or petrochemicals from gas in the state." was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. SB 229 SENATE BILL NO. 229 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1251 "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government, for certain programs, and to capitalize funds; making supplemental appropriations; making appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15, Dear President Stevens: Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's operating budget for Fiscal Year 2011 (FY 2011). My number one mission as Governor is to promote economic growth and opportunities for families in Alaska. My budget proposal for FY 2011 is based on clear priorities from our constitutional mandates for spending: education, public safety, transportation, and responsible resource development. With the mission and priorities set, I established guiding principles for the budget. First, it is important to maintain budget discipline by limiting State agency growth; second, we need to focus on results for Alaskans; and third, we will take the long-term view for budget and policy decisions that will promote the economic growth necessary for Alaskans to prosper. This budget also recognizes that responsible resource development has allowed Alaska the opportunity to grow and prosper, and remains the foundation for our future prosperity. The improved fall revenue forecast is good news for Alaska. Increased revenue and fiscal restraint means there will be surplus revenue in the current year and next. The projected surplus means we will not have to draw on our savings in 2010 or 2011. Instead, we have the opportunity to save for the future. I am recommending that we save surplus revenue to forward fund K-12 education. I am also proposing to save $400 million and utilize the 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1252 earnings to fund the Governor's Performance Scholarship aimed at increasing academic rigor and high school completion rates, which will translate into skillfully trained workforce ready to lead Alaska's economy in the future. I look forward to working with the Legislature to finalize the operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 230 SENATE BILL NO. 230 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making and amending appropriations, including capital appropriations, supplemental appropriations, and other appropriations; making appropriations to capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State of Alaska's capital budget for Fiscal Year 2011 (FY2011). My number one mission as Governor is to promote economic growth and opportunities for families. My budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2011 is based on clear priorities from our constitutional mandates for spending: education, public safety, transportation, and responsible resource development. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1253 The proposed capital budget will fuel Alaska's economy and put Alaskans to work. The budget includes $85.4 million to leverage over $700 million in federal and other funds. The budget also includes a request for $100 million for the first year of a five-year deferred maintenance plan to fix the buildings and infrastructure we already have and maintain what we can, take care of the State of Alaska's assets, and keep Alaska's contractors employed. Energy and gas line development, including in-state gas, are key elements of the proposed capital budget. My proposed capital budget recognizes that responsible resource development has allowed Alaska the opportunity to prosper and grow, and remains the foundation for our future prosperity. We must leverage our funds to fight for safe, sound development, and to promote private-sector investment and job creation. The capital budget represents a significant investment in Alaska's infrastructure, including surface transportation, airport improvements, water and wastewater projects, schools, and State facilities maintenance. I have met with numerous Alaskans, including community and business leaders, and legislators regarding funding requests for many worthy projects in our State. As you know, I received far more requests than I could possibly propose in the budget submitted today. I look forward to working with the Legislature to finalize the capital budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 231 SENATE BILL NO. 231 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." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1254 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 transmitted. Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15: Dear President Stevens, Under the authority of Art. III, Sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's comprehensive mental health program for Fiscal Year 2011 (FY2011). As required by statute, it includes both operating and capital appropriations and is accompanied by a report outlining the differences between the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and my proposed budget. The proposed mental health budget represents a cooperative effort between State agencies and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority. These productive working relationships have made and will continue to make a positive difference for Alaska's mental health beneficiaries. I look forward to working with the Legislature to secure passage of this budget bill. Sincerely, /s/ Sean Parnell Governor SB 232 SENATE BILL NO. 232 BY SENATORS WIELECHOWSKI, Ellis, entitled: "An Act relating to an optional municipal property tax exemption for residential property." was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees. 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1255 Unfinished Business Citations Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the following citation be made a special order of business. Without objection, it was so ordered. Special Order of Business In Memoriam - Neal Richard Foster Representative(s) Hawker Senator(s) Bunde, Olson, Stevens, Coghill, Davis, Dyson, Egan, Ellis, French, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Paskvan, Stedman, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the citation be adopted. Without objection, the citation was adopted and referred to the Secretary for transmittal. President Stevens made the following appointments: Legislative Council Senator Egan Joint Armed Services Committee Senator Dyson Select Committee on Legislative Ethics Senator Coghill Senator Ellis moved that Senator Coghill be confirmed as a member to the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics. The question being: "Shall Senator Coghill be confirmed as a member to the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics?" The roll was taken with the following result: 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1256 Shall Senator Coghill be confirmed as a member to the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics? YEAS: 19 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 1 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Coghill, Davis, Dyson, Egan, Ellis, French, Hoffman, Huggins, Kookesh, McGuire, Menard, Meyer, Olson, Paskvan, Stedman, Stevens, Thomas, Wagoner, Wielechowski Excused: Bunde and so, Senator Coghill was confirmed as a member to the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics. The Secretary was requested to notify the House. Senator Stedman moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from afternoon plane time, January 21 through evening plane time, January 24. Without objection, Senator Stedman was excused. Senator Coghill moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from noon plane time, January 21 through evening plane time, January 24. Without objection, Senator Coghill was excused. Senator Davis moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from January 22 through plane time, January 24. Without objection, Senator Davis was excused. Introduction of Chamber Staff Senator Huggins, Rules Committee Chair, introduced the following Senate staff: Emily Peyton - Sergeant at Arms Kelsey Potdevin - Assistant Sergeant at Arms 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1257 Lea Shipman - Page Russell Barney - Page Amanda Stoltze - Page Jessica Gozelski - Page Drew Lindow - Page Scott Bergmann - Page Matthew Neuman - Page Announcements Announcements are at the end of the journal. Adjournment Senator Ellis moved and asked unanimous consent that the Senate stand in adjournment until 11:00 a.m., January 20, 2010. Without objection, the Senate adjourned at 2:50 p.m. Kirsten Waid Secretary of the Senate 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1258 Announcements Americans with Disabilities Act Notice - Persons with disabilities who require special accommodation or alternative communication formats to access committee meetings may contact the appropriate committee office or the Legislative Information Office in their community. Reasonable advance notice is needed to accommodate the request. For further information, call the ADA Coordinator at 465-3854 Voice/465-4980 TDD. STANDING COMMITTEES + indicates teleconference = indicates bill previously heard/scheduled COMMUNITY & REGIONAL AFFAIRS Jan 19 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 21 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- EDUCATION Jan 20 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 8:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 22 Friday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 8:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- FINANCE Jan 19 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 20 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 21 Thursday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 22 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1259 HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES Jan 20 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 22 Friday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- JUDICIARY Jan 20 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM -- Location Change -- + Overview: Cost of Crime ISER Recommendations and Update Stephanie Martin, Institute of Social and Economic Research (ISER) Joe Schmidt, Commissioner, Department of Corrections Dwayne Peeples, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Corrections Bryan Brandenburg, Deputy Director of Institutions, DOC -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- LABOR & COMMERCE Jan 19 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 21 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- RESOURCES Jan 20 Wednesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM Overview: Senate Omnibus Energy Bill & Proposed Alaska Energy Policy SB 220 ENERGY EFFICIENCY/ ALTERNATIVE ENERGY Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1260 RESOURCES (continued) Jan 21 Thursday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM Continuation of Overview & Consideration of Senate Omnibus Energy Bill = SB 220 ENERGY EFFICIENCY/ ALTERNATIVE ENERGY Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled Jan 22 Friday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- STATE AFFAIRS Jan 19 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 9:00 AM No Meeting Scheduled Jan 21 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 9:00 AM Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- TRANSPORTATION Jan 21 Thursday Barnes 124 1:00 PM + Joint with House Transportation Presentation on Port of Anchorage by Governor Sheffield DOT Update by Frank Richards, Deputy Commissioner Draft Report from the Governor's Community Transportation Task Force ---------------------------------------- FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEES ADMINISTRATION Jan 27 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM Office of Public Advocacy Commissioner Departmental Overview Office of Administrative Hearings Division of Retirement & Benefits Office of Risk Management Public Defender Agency <Above Item Removed from Agenda> Office of Public Advocacy <Above Item Removed from Agenda> 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1261 FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEES (continued) ADMINISTRATION (continued) Feb 03 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM Division of General Services Division of Motor Vehicles Public Communications Services Public Defender Agency Office of Public Advocacy <Above Item Removed from Agenda> Feb 10 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM Division of Finance Division of Personnel & Labor Relations Office of Public Advocacy Violent Crimes Compensation Board Division of Retirement & Benefits <Above Item Removed from Agenda> Feb 17 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM Oil & Gas Conservation Commission Public Offices Commission Feb 24 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM Enterprise Technology Services ---------------------------------------- HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES Feb 02 Tuesday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + Department Budget Overview -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 04 Thursday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + Department Budget Overview Continuation -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 09 Tuesday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + Medicaid, FMAP, Provider Rates -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1262 FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEES (continued) HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES (continued) Feb 11 Thursday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + To Be Determined -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 16 Tuesday Butrovich 205 8:00 AM + To Be Determined -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- PUBLIC SAFETY Feb 04 Thursday Fahrenkamp 203 1:30 PM + Department Budget Overview -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 11 Thursday Fahrenkamp 203 1:30 PM + Status of VPSO Program and Recruitment Efforts for Them and the State Troopers -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 25 Thursday Fahrenkamp 203 1:30 PM + To Be Determined -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- JOINT COMMITTEES ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE Feb 02 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 11:30 AM + Briefings from Alaska Marines; Updates on VA Health Care, Education Benefits, Alaska Territorial Guard, and Fisher House; Veterans Summit and PTA Report Summaries. -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Feb 04 Thursday Senate Finance 532 11:30 AM + Briefings from Alaskan Command and Alaska Army National Guard -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- ---------------------------------------- 2010-01-19 Senate Journal Page 1263 OTHER MEETINGS FISH CAUCUS Jan 21 Thursday Capitol 106 12:00 PM + Marine Advisory Program Presenter: Paula Cullenberg, Program Leader, Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program Catered seafood lunch provided. ---------------------------------------- JOINT SESSION Jan 20 Wednesday House Chamber 7:00 PM Annual State of the State by the Honorable Sean Parnell, Governor of Alaska Feb 18 Thursday House Chamber 11:00 AM Annual Address by the Honorable Lisa Murkowski, U.S. Senator