Legislature(2015 - 2016)
2016-01-19 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2016-01-19 House Journal Page 1451 HB 257 HOUSE BILL NO. 257 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 letter dated January 14, 2016, with accompanying spreadsheets, to the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority from Pat Pitney, Director, Office of Management and Budget, was attached (as required by AS 37.14.003) and is on file in the Chief Clerk's office. The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 15, 2016, follows: "Dear Speaker Chenault: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18 of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the State's comprehensive mental health program for Fiscal Year 2017 (FY 2017). As required by statute, it includes both operating and capital appropriations. Also as required, the enclosed report outlines the differences between the recommendations of the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and my proposed budget. The FY 2017 mental health budget includes $26.8 million of the $29.9 million operating and capital Trust recommendations. Due to fiscal constraints, increases to the mental health budget were not included. Included in the operating budget are reductions of $10.2 million for one-time salary adjustments and Medicaid cost savings for a total proposed FY 2017 mental health budget of $232.0 million. The proposed mental health budget represents a cooperative effort between State agencies and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority. These productive working relationships make a positive difference for Alaska's mental health beneficiaries. We look forward to working with the Legislature on securing passage of the FY 2017 mental health budget bill. 2016-01-19 House Journal Page 1452 I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor"