Legislature(2025 - 2026)
2025-05-07 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1147 SENATE JOURNAL ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE THIRTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE FIRST SESSION Juneau, Alaska Wednesday May 7, 2025 One Hundred Seventh Day Pursuant to adjournment the Senate was called to order by President Stevens at 11:05 a.m. The roll showed twenty members present. The prayer was offered by the Chaplain, Pastor Emeritus Paul Beran, Resurrection Lutheran Church. Senator Hoffman moved and asked unanimous consent the prayer be spread. Without objection, it was so ordered. Gracious God, From the dawning of a new day to the evening sky we see Your intricate designs intricately carved in nature. When we ponder our own bodies we can say with the Psalmist of old "We are wonderfully and fearfully made". Help us to be the best possible leaders for Alaska, shrink our egos, lest we fall prey to arrogance. Instead, give us the courage to be our best selves, listening thoughtfully, speaking succinctly, and leading wisely. Help us to be leaders of integrity heeding that quiet inner voice, then responding with the courage to act upon it. Help us, O Lord. This I pray in the Name of the One Who came, not to be served but to serve, Jesus the Christ. Amen. Senator Myers led the Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1148 Certification Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the journals for the one hundred fifth and one hundred sixth legislative days be approved as certified by the Secretary. Without objection, it was so ordered. Messages from the House SB 60 Message dated May 5 was read stating the House passed and returned: SENATE BILL NO. 60 "An Act establishing May 12 as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Day of Recognition." The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. Communications The following report is on file in the Office of the Secretary of the Senate: Department of Education & Early Development Alaska Reads Act Evaluation Report Year 1 in accordance with ch. 40, SLA 2022 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1149 Standing Committee Reports SB 8 The Education Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 8 "An Act relating to public school students who are deaf or hard of hearing" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 8(EDC) Signing do pass: Senator Tobin, Chair; Senator Cronk. Signing no recommendation: Senators Bjorkman, Stevens, Kiehl. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Education and Early Development The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. SB 45 The Health and Social Services Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 45 "An Act relating to medical assistance services; relating to parity in mental health and substance use disorder coverage in the state medical assistance program; and providing for an effective date." Signing do pass: Senator Dunbar, Chair; Senators Claman, Tobin, Giessel. Signing no recommendation: Senator Hughes. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Health The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. SB 131 The Resources Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 131 "An Act relating to the duties of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute; and relating to the seafood marketing assessment" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 131(RES) Signing no recommendation: Senator Wielechowski, Vice Chair; Senators Myers, Kawasaki. Signing do pass: Senators Hughes, Dunbar. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1150 The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Fiscal Note No. 2, zero, Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. SB 134 The Labor and Commerce Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 134 "An Act relating to pharmacy benefits managers; relating to third-party administrators; and providing for an effective date." Signing do pass: Senator Bjorkman, Chair; Senators Dunbar, Merrick, Gray-Jackson. Signing no recommendation: Senator Yundt. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development The bill was referred to the Rules Committee. SB 143 The Education Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 143 "An Act relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; and providing for an effective date" and recommended it be replaced with CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 143(EDC) Signing no recommendation: Senator Tobin, Chair; Senators Bjorkman, Stevens, Kiehl. Signing do pass: Senator Cronk. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Education and Early Development The bill was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1151 SB 178 The Health and Social Services Committee considered SENATE BILL NO. 178 "An Act relating to early intervention services for certain children; relating to optional services under the medical assistance program; and providing for an effective date." Signing do pass: Senator Dunbar, Chair; Senators Claman, Tobin, Giessel. Signing no recommendation: Senator Hughes. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Health Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Health The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. HB 31 The Transportation Committee considered HOUSE BILL NO. 31 "An Act relating to the registration of commercial vessels; and relating to the derelict vessel prevention program fund." Signing do pass: Senator Bjorkman, Chair; Senator Kiehl. Signing no recommendation: Senator Tobin. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Fish and Game Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Administration Fiscal Note No. 3, Department of Natural Resources Fiscal Note No. 4, zero, Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. SJR 17 The Finance Committee considered SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 17 Recognizing and honoring the 50th anniversary of The Energy Council. Signing do pass: Senators Olson, Stedman, Hoffman, Cochairs; Senators Kaufman, Cronk, Merrick, Kiehl. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1152 The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Legislative Agency The resolution was referred to the Rules Committee. Introduction and Reference of Senate Resolutions SJR 21 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 21 BY SENATOR TOBIN, Supporting and encouraging the continued recruitment and retention of international educators on J-1 and H-1B visas in the state. was read the first time and referred to the Education Committee. Introduction and Reference of Senate Bills SB 190 SENATE BILL NO. 190 BY SENATOR KIEHL, entitled: "An Act relating to guardianships, conservatorships, and other protective arrangements; relating to the public guardian; relating to the crime of violating a protective order; amending the Alaska Rules of Probate Procedure, and Rule 77(c), Alaska Rules of Civil Procedure; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1153 Consideration of the Calendar Senate Bills in Third Reading SB 83 CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 83(HSS) "An Act relating to health care insurance; relating to insurance reimbursement for health care services provided through telehealth; relating to telehealth; providing for an effective date by repealing the effective date of secs. 9 and 10, ch. 38, SLA 2022; and providing for an effective date" which had been held in third reading (page 1125) was before the Senate. Senator Giessel moved the bill be returned to second reading for the purpose of a specific amendment, that being Amendment No. 1. Without objection, the bill was returned to second reading. Senator Giessel offered Amendment No. 1 : Page 1, line 8: Delete "a new subsection" Insert "new subsections" Page 1, following line 12: Insert a new subsection to read: "(d) A health care insurer shall uniformly and equally apply reimbursement rates for each health care provider authorized to bill for health care services or supplies provided through telehealth under the Current Procedural Terminology code adopted by the American Medical Association or other industry standard method of coding. In this subsection, "health care provider" means a physician or other medical professional licensed in this state." Senator Giessel moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Senator Hughes objected. Senator Claman moved for the adoption of the following amendment to Amendment No. 1: Page 1, line 7 of the amendment: Delete "A" 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1154 Insert "In the absence of a contract between a health care insurer and a health care provider that sets allowable charges for health care services and supplies furnished to a covered person, a" Senator Giessel objected. The question being: "Shall the amendment to Amendment No. 1 be adopted?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSSB 83(HSS) Second Reading Amendment to Amendment No. 1? YEAS: 12 NAYS: 8 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Hoffman, Hughes, Kaufman, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Shower, Stedman, Yundt Nays: Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Kawasaki, Olson, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski and so, Amendment No. 1 was amended. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent to withdraw Amendment No. 1 as amended. Without objection, Amendment No. 1 as amended was withdrawn. CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 83(HSS) was automatically in third reading. The question being: "Shall CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 83(HSS) "An Act relating to health care insurance; relating to insurance reimbursement for health care services provided through telehealth; relating to telehealth; providing for an effective date by repealing the effective date of secs. 9 and 10, ch. 38, SLA 2022; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSSB 83(HSS) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 14 NAYS: 6 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1155 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski Nays: Cronk, Hughes, Kaufman, Myers, Shower, Yundt and so, CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 83(HSS) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause(s). Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. Third Reading of House Bills HB 53 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 53(FIN) "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs; capitalizing funds; amending appropriations; making supplemental appropriations; and providing for an effective date" was read the third time. Senator Myers moved the bill be returned to second reading for all amendments offered today. Without objection, the bill was returned to second reading. Senator Myers offered Corrected Amendment No. 1: Page 20, following line 7: Insert new material to read: "It is the intent of the legislature that, in preparing the fiscal year 2027 budget, the Office of Management and Budget use zero-based budgeting principles to prepare the budget of at least one but not more than five agencies. The director of the Office of Management and Budget shall submit a report not later than December 20, 2025, to the Co-chairs of the Finance committee of each house of the legislature and to the Legislative Finance Division that provides a detailed explanation of each agency that was selected for zero-based budgeting and an analysis and justification for each expense of the agency." 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1156 Senator Myers moved for the adoption of Corrected Amendment No. 1. Senator Giessel objected. Senator Myers moved and asked unanimous consent to withdraw Corrected Amendment No. 1. Without objection, Corrected Amendment No. 1 was withdrawn. Senator Myers offered Amendment No. 2 : Amendment No. 2 was published in Senate Journal Supplement No. 5. Senator Myers moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 2. Objections were heard. The question being: "Shall Amendment No. 2 be adopted?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 53(FIN) Second Reading Amendment No. 2? YEAS: 6 NAYS: 14 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Cronk, Hughes, Kaufman, Myers, Shower, Yundt Nays: Bjorkman, Claman, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski and so, Amendment No. 2 failed. Senator Shower offered Amendment No. 3 : Page 76, line 31, through page 77, line 3: Delete all material and insert: "(d) The amount necessary for the payment of a permanent fund dividend of $3,900 and for administrative and associated costs, estimated to be $2,500,300,000, is appropriated to the dividend fund (AS 43.23.045(a)) for that purpose for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, from the following sources: (1) $1,815,000,000 from the earnings reserve account (AS 37.13.145); 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1157 (2) the remaining amount, estimated to be $685,300,000, from the general fund." Senator Shower moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 3. Objections were heard. Senator Shower moved and asked unanimous consent to withdraw Amendment No. 3. Without objection, Amendment No. 3 was withdrawn. Senator Shower offered Amendment No. 4 : Page 76, line 31, through page 77, line 3: Delete all material and insert: "(d) The amount necessary for the payment of a permanent fund dividend of $2,950 and for administrative and associated costs, estimated to be $1,900,300,000, is appropriated to the dividend fund (AS 43.23.045(a)) for that purpose for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, from the following sources: (1) $1,215,000,000 from the earnings reserve account (AS 37.13.145); (2) the remaining amount, estimated to be $685,300,000, from the general fund." Senator Shower moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 4. Senator Giessel objected. Senator Shower moved and asked unanimous consent to withdraw Amendment No. 4. Without objection, Amendment No. 4 was withdrawn. Senator Shower offered Amendment No. 5 : Page 76, line 31, through page 77, line 3: Delete all material and insert: "(d) The amount necessary for the payment of a permanent fund dividend of $2,950 and for administrative and associated costs, estimated to be $1,900,300,000, is appropriated to the dividend fund (AS 43.23.045(a)) for that purpose for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, from the following sources: 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1158 (1) $1,215,000,000 from the earnings reserve account (AS 37.13.145); (2) the remaining amount, estimated to be $685,300,000, from the general fund." Senator Shower moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 5. Objections were heard. The question being: "Shall Amendment No. 5 be adopted?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 53(FIN) Second Reading Amendment No. 5? YEAS: 6 NAYS: 14 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Cronk, Dunbar, Hughes, Myers, Shower, Yundt Nays: Bjorkman, Claman, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski and so, Amendment No. 5 failed. Senator Hoffman offered Amendment No. 6 : Amendment No. 6 was published in Senate Journal Supplement No. 5. Senator Hoffman moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 6. Objections were heard. The question being: "Shall Amendment No. 6 be adopted?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 53(FIN) Second Reading Amendment No. 6? YEAS: 19 NAYS: 1 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1159 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Shower, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt Nays: Hughes and so, Amendment No. 6 was adopted. SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 53(FIN) am S was automatically in third reading. The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 53(FIN) am S "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs; capitalizing funds; amending appropriations; making supplemental appropriations; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 53(FIN) am S Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 16 NAYS: 4 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski Nays: Hughes, Myers, Shower, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 53(FIN) am S passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause(s). Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 55 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 55(FIN) "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 third time. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1160 Senator Hoffman moved the bill be returned to second reading for the purpose of a specific amendment, that being Amendment No. 1. Without objection, the bill was returned to second reading. Senator Hoffman offered Amendment No. 1 : Page 2, line 1, through page 10, line 16: Delete all material and insert: "* Section 1. The following appropriation items are for operating expenditures from the general fund or other funds as set out in the fiscal year 2026 budget summary for the operating budget by funding source to the agencies named for the purposes expressed for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026, unless otherwise indicated. Appropriation General Other Items Funds Funds Allocations * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Administration * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Legal and Advocacy Services 4,145,500 3,771,400 374,100 Office of Public Advocacy 2,807,600 Public Defender Agency 1,337,900 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Corrections * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Community Residential Centers 6,970,500 6,970,500 Community Residential 6,970,500 Centers Health and Rehabilitation Services 10,497,300 9,455,600 1,041,700 Behavioral Health Care 8,853,400 Substance Abuse Treatment 1,643,900 Program * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Education and Early Development * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Education Support and 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1161 Admin Services 513,900 377,800 136,100 Student and School 513,900 Achievement * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Family and Community Services * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Alaska Psychiatric Institute 21,018,000 21,018,000 Alaska Psychiatric 19,911,300 Institute Facility Rent, Operations, 1,106,700 and Maintenance Children's Services 2,226,900 2,226,900 Children's Services 69,500 Management Front Line Social Workers 148,500 Family Preservation 726,000 Foster Care Augmented Rate 500,000 Foster Care Special Need 782,900 Juvenile Justice 1,709,100 1,609,100 100,000 McLaughlin Youth Center 951,400 Fairbanks Youth Facility 137,600 Bethel Youth Facility 205,500 Probation Services 314,600 Juvenile Justice Health 100,000 Care Departmental Support Services 7,819,800 7,323,400 496,400 Coordinated Health and 7,732,800 Complex Care Commissioner's Office 87,000 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Health * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Behavioral Health 54,045,300 52,428,700 1,616,600 Behavioral Health Treatment 32,904,100 and Recovery Grants Alcohol Safety Action 1,286,100 Program (ASAP) Behavioral Health 9,764,500 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1162 Administration Behavioral Health 5,987,300 Prevention and Early Intervention Grants Alaska Mental Health Board 1,031,800 and Advisory Board on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Suicide Prevention Council 619,800 Residential Child Care 2,088,700 Behavioral Health Facility 363,000 Operations and Maintenance Health Care Services 286,800 286,800 Health Facilities Licensing 130,000 and Certification Residential Licensing 156,800 Public Health 4,887,500 4,492,200 395,300 Women, Children and Family 2,074,200 Health Emergency Programs 1,400 Chronic Disease Prevention 2,469,900 and Health Promotion Bureau of Vital Statistics 70,000 Public Health Facility 272,000 Operations and Maintenance Senior and Disabilities Services 12,714,000 10,738,000 1,976,000 Senior and Disabilities 1,180,600 Community Based Grants Early Intervention/Infant 8,184,500 Learning Programs Senior and Disabilities 2,117,000 Services Administration General Relief/Temporary 740,300 Assisted Living Commission on Aging 211,500 Governor's Council on 254,700 Disabilities and Special Education Senior and Disabilities 25,400 Services Facility 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1163 Operations and Maintenance Medicaid Services 82,155,800 82,155,800 Medicaid Services 82,155,800 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Labor and Workforce Development * * * * * * * * * * * * * Commissioner and Administrative Services 26,000 26,000 Labor Market Information 26,000 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Law * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Civil Division 100,100 100,100 The amount appropriated by this appropriation includes the unexpended and unobligated balance on June 30, 2025, of inter- agency receipts collected in the Department of Law's federally approved cost allocation plan. Health, Safety & Welfare 100,100 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Natural Resources * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Administration & Support Services 5,721,600 5,721,600 Mental Health Trust Lands 5,721,600 Administration It is the intent of the legislature that the FY27 budget promote transparency by reflecting the existing maintenance and operations costs of the Trust and its lessees in the Cordova building and the Trust Authority building. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Public Safety * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Alaska State Troopers 50,000 50,000 Alaska State Trooper 50,000 Detachments Alaska Police Standards Council 80,000 80,000 The amount appropriated by this appropriation includes the unexpended and unobligated balance on June 30, 2025, of the receipts collected under AS 12.25.195(c), AS 12.55.039, AS 28.05.151, and 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1164 AS 29.25.074 and receipts collected under AS 18.65.220(7). Alaska Police Standards 80,000 Council Integrated Victim Assistance 1,617,500 1,617,500 Council on Domestic 1,617,500 Violence and Sexual Assault * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Department of Revenue * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority 6,087,600 614,300 5,473,300 Mental Health Trust 5,473,300 Operations Long Term Care Ombudsman 614,300 Office Alaska Housing Finance Corporation 200,000 200,000 AHFC Operations 200,000 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * University of Alaska * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * University of Alaska 2,675,800 805,800 1,870,000 Anchorage Campus 2,625,800 Troth Yeddha' Campus 50,000 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Judiciary * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Alaska Court System 532,800 532,800 Trial Courts 532,800 Therapeutic Courts 4,392,600 4,234,300 158,300 Therapeutic Courts 4,392,600 (SECTION 2 OF THIS ACT BEGINS ON THE NEXT PAGE) * Sec. 2. The following sets out the funding by agency for the appropriations made in sec. 1 of this Act. Funding Source Amount Department of Administration 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 3,771,400 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 374,100 *** Total Agency Funding *** 4,145,500 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1165 Department of Corrections 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 9,455,600 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 1,041,700 1246 Recidivism Reduction Fund 6,970,500 *** Total Agency Funding *** 17,467,800 Department of Education and Early Development 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 377,800 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 136,100 *** Total Agency Funding *** 513,900 Department of Family and Community Services 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 32,177,400 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 596,400 *** Total Agency Funding *** 32,773,800 Department of Health 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 119,075,400 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 3,987,900 1180 Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Treatment & Prevention Fund 20,100,000 1246 Recidivism Reduction Fund 4,412,000 1254 Marijuana Education and Treatment Fund 6,514,100 *** Total Agency Funding *** 154,089,400 Department of Labor and Workforce Development 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 26,000 *** Total Agency Funding *** 26,000 Department of Law 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 100,100 *** Total Agency Funding *** 100,100 Department of Natural Resources 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 5,721,600 *** Total Agency Funding *** 5,721,600 Department of Public Safety 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 130,000 1246 Recidivism Reduction Fund 1,617,500 *** Total Agency Funding *** 1,747,500 Department of Revenue 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 614,300 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 200,000 1094 Mental Health Trust Administration 5,473,300 *** Total Agency Funding *** 6,287,600 University of Alaska 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1166 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 805,800 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 1,870,000 *** Total Agency Funding *** 2,675,800 Judiciary 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 4,767,100 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 158,300 *** Total Agency Funding *** 4,925,400 * * * * * Total Budget * * * * * 230,474,400 (SECTION 3 OF THIS ACT BEGINS ON THE NEXT PAGE) * Sec. 3. The following sets out the statewide funding for the appropriations made in sec. 1 of this Act. Funding Source Amount Unrestricted General 1037 General Fund / Mental Health 171,144,900 *** Total Unrestricted General *** 171,144,900 Designated General 1180 Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Treatment & Prevention Fund 20,100,000 1246 Recidivism Reduction Fund 13,000,000 1254 Marijuana Education and Treatment Fund 6,514,100 *** Total Designated General *** 39,614,100 Other Non-Duplicated 1092 Mental Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts 14,242,100 1094 Mental Health Trust Administration 5,473,300 *** Total Other Non-Duplicated *** 19,715,400 (SECTION 4 OF THIS ACT BEGINS ON THE NEXT PAGE)" Page 14, line 30, following "unit": Insert "; (9) Alaska State Employees Association, for the general government unit" Senator Hoffman moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Senator Shower objected, then withdrew his objection. There being no further objection, Amendment No. 1 was adopted. SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 55(FIN) am S was automatically in third reading. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1167 The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 55(FIN) am S "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" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 55(FIN) am S Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Hughes, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Shower, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 55(FIN) am S passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause(s). Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. Second Reading of Senate Resolutions SJR 8 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 8 Relating to strengthening international relations with Taiwan, was read the second time. President Stevens stated SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 8 will advance to third reading on the May 9 calendar. SJR 15 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15 Calling on the state's congressional delegation to oppose cuts to federal spending on Medicaid, was read the second time. Senator Dunbar, Chair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Health and Social Services Committee Substitute offered on page 724. Without objection, CS FOR SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15(HSS) was adopted. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1168 President Stevens stated CS FOR SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15(HSS) will advance to third reading on the May 9 calendar. Second Reading of House Resolutions HJR 5 HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5 Urging the United States Congress and the President of the United States to reinstate the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 and make the funding mechanism in the Act permanent, was read the second time. President Stevens stated HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5 will advance to third reading on the May 9 calendar. HJR 15 CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15(CRA) Urging the Governor, the Department of Natural Resources, division of forestry and fire protection, the Department of Public Safety, municipalities of the state and relevant wildfire planning and response agencies, and the Alaska delegation in Congress to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season, was read the second time. President Stevens stated CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15(CRA) will advance to third reading on the May 9 calendar. Special Order of Business Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the following Citation Calendar be made a special order of business. Without objection, it was so ordered. Citation Calendar Honoring - Rita T. Allee Senator(s) Kawasaki Representative(s) Dibert Honoring - Nikiski High School Girls Volleyball Team Senator(s) Bjorkman 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1169 Honoring - Aubrie Ellis Senator(s) Bjorkman Representative(s) Ruffridge Honoring - Craig Lyon Senator(s) Tobin Representative(s) Mears, Josephson Honoring - Gene Therriault and Jo Kuchle Senator(s) Myers Representative(s) Prax, Stapp Honoring - Bartlett High School Golden Bears Girls Basketball Team 2025 Alaska Airline Classic Champions Senator(s) Wielechowski Representative(s) Mears, Eischeid th Honoring - Homer Electric Association 75 Anniversary Senator(s) Bjorkman Representative(s) Elam, Ruffridge Honoring - Sheri Boehlert Representative(s) Bynum Honoring - Metlakatla High School Boys and Girls Basketball Teams Representative(s) Bynum Honoring - Ketchikan High School Boys Basketball Team Representative(s) Bynum Honoring - Wrangell High School Wrestling Team Representative(s) Bynum Honoring - Kyan Reeve Representative(s) Bynum Honoring - Ketchikan High School Wrestling Team Representative(s) Bynum 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1170 Honoring - City of Ketchikan 125 Anniversary Representative(s) Bynum Senator(s) Stedman Honoring - Bob Jahnke Representative(s) Bynum Senator(s) Stedman, Cronk th Honoring - Glenn Massay Theater 10 Anniversary Representative(s) Tilton, Johnson Honoring - Dimond-West Girls Hockey Team 2025 State Champions Representative(s) Costello Honoring - J. Allan MacKinnon Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl Honoring - Skagway School Drama, Debate and Forensics Team Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl Honoring - Martin Hernandez Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl Honoring - Laura “Lauri” Lyn Wilson Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl th Honoring - The Bear Paw Festival’s 40 Anniversary Representative(s) Saddler Senator(s) Merrick th Honoring - Chugiak Senior Citizens, Inc., 50 Anniversary Representative(s) Saddler Senator(s) Merrick Honoring - Robin Hopper Representative(s) Saddler 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1171 Honoring - Alaska Military Youth Academy 30 Anniversary Representative(s) Saddler, Nelson Honoring - Brooke Hartman Representative(s) Saddler Senator(s) Merrick Honoring - X_’unei Lance Twitchell Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl Honoring - Jon Zasada Representative(s) Mina, Fields Senator(s) Kawasaki Honoring - Liam Lierman Representative(s) Allard Honoring - Chugiak High School Mustangs Girls Cross-Country Team Representative(s) Allard, Saddler Honoring - Chugiak High School Mustangs Boys Cross-Country Team Representative(s) Allard, Saddler Honoring - Teresa Hall-Klouda and Bernie Klouda Representative(s) Allard In Memoriam - Roger Dee Roberts Senator(s) Myers, Cronk Representative(s) Tomaszewski In Memoriam - Clare Swan Senator(s) Bjorkman, Claman Representative(s) Ruffridge In Memoriam - Stephen Brown Senator(s) Hughes Representative(s) Rauscher 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1172 In Memoriam - David Bruce Jaeger Senator(s) Wielechowski, Dunbar Representative(s) Mears In Memoriam - Doctor James W. Elliott Senator(s) Wielechowski, Cronk Representative(s) Mears In Memoriam - Samuel Karl Nagaruk Cross Senator(s) Olson Representative(s) Foster In Memoriam - Kenneth “Ken” Ketah Representative(s) Bynum In Memoriam - William “Bill” Bruce Tatsuda Representative(s) Bynum Senator(s) Stedman In Memoriam - Kaley Burk Representative(s) Bynum In Memoriam - Charles “Charlie” William White, Saa Du’uts Representative(s) Bynum In Memoriam - Patsy “Pat” Speer Representative(s) McCabe Senator(s) Cronk In Memoriam - Paul Dee Douglas Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl In Memoriam - Theodore “Ted” Reed Merrell III Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl In Memoriam - Susan Ann Stone Representative(s) Bynum Senator(s) Stedman 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1173 In Memoriam - Bill Kuhlman Representative(s) Saddler In Memoriam - Bruce C. Headle Representative(s) Saddler, Allard In Memoriam - Laura Granducci Temple Representative(s) Saddler In Memoriam - Leona Marie Santiago Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl In Memoriam - George James “Jim” Sepel Representative(s) Story, Hannan Senator(s) Kiehl In Memoriam - Ashley Wuebbels-Boehm Representative(s) Allard Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the Citation Calendar be adopted. Without objection, the citations were adopted and referred to the Secretary for transmittal. Unfinished Business HB 35 Senators Myers, Kawasaki, Gray-Jackson, Claman moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as cross sponsors on CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 35(STA) "An Act relating to the use and possession of electronic devices by prisoners." Without objection, it was so ordered. SJR 21 Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cosponsor on SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 21 Supporting and encouraging the continued recruitment and retention of international educators on J-1 and H-1B visas in the state. Without objection, it was so ordered. 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1174 Announcements Announcements are at the end of the journal. Engrossment SB 83 CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 83(HSS) "An Act relating to health care insurance; relating to insurance reimbursement for health care services provided through telehealth; relating to telehealth; providing for an effective date by repealing the effective date of secs. 9 and 10, ch. 38, SLA 2022; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and transmitted to the House for consideration. HB 53 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 53(FIN) am S "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs; capitalizing funds; amending appropriations; making supplemental appropriations; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. HB 55 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 55(FIN) am S "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 engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. Adjournment Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the Senate stand in adjournment until 10:30 a.m., May 9, 2025. Without objection, the Senate adjourned at 2:11 p.m. Liz Clark Secretary of the Senate 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1175 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 EDUCATION May 07 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- + Consideration of Governor’s Appointees: University of Alaska Board of Regents Fernando Escobar - Fairbanks -- Public Testimony -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 09 Friday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- FINANCE May 07 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + SB 34 REPEAL 90 DAY SESSION LIMIT -- Invited & Public Testimony -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled: += SB 24 TOBACCO/NICOTINE/E-CIG AGE; E-CIG TAX -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- = SB 92 CORP. INCOME TAX; OIL & GAS ENTITIES **Streamed live on AKL.tv** 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1176 FINANCE (continued) May 07 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- -- Please Note Time Change -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 08 Thursday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM -- MEETING CANCELED -- + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 08 Thursday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM -- Please Note Time Change -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 09 Friday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 09 Friday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM -- Please Note Time Change -- + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES May 08 Thursday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + HB 70 EMERGENCY MED SVCS; OPERATIONAL CANINES -- Invited & Public Testimony -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1177 JUDICIARY May 07 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + SB 19 PRISONERS: ELECTRONIC DEVICE ACCESS/USE -- Invited & Public Testimony -- + HB 35 PRISONERS: ELECTRONIC DEVICE ACCESS/USE -- Invited & Public Testimony -- + SB 167 CRIM. CONV. OVERTURNED: RECEIVE PAST PFD -- Invited & Public Testimony -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled May 09 Friday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled ---------------------------------------- LABOR & COMMERCE May 07 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM += SB 170 GAMING; ELECTRONIC PULL-TABS -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- + SB 158 COOK INLET: NEW ADMIN AREA -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- + SB 149 UTILITIES: RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- += SB 35 DELIVERY NETWORK COMPANIES -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 09 Friday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM + SB 147 PHARMACIST PRESCRIPTION AUTHORITY -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- += SB 117 STATE COMMISSION FOR CIVIL RIGHTS -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- += SB 158 COOK INLET: NEW ADMIN AREA -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- + HB 116 COMMERCIAL FISHING INSURANCE CO-OP -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- += SB 159 TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT PROG: CONTRIBUTIONS -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- + SB 172 OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY LICENSURE COMPACT -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1178 RESOURCES May 07 Wednesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + SB 161 PROHIBIT BOTTOM TRAWLING -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- -- Public Testimony Canceled, Will Be Held Over to Future Committee Hearing. Submit Written Public Testimony to [email protected] -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 09 Friday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled: += SB 180 LNG IMPORT FACILITIES -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- STATE AFFAIRS May 08 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM + SB 152 HAROLD ESMAILKA AIRPORT AT RUBY -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- += SB 104 VEHICLES/BOATS: TRANSFER ON DEATH TITLE -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- += HB 121 ACCOUNTING; PRACTICE PRIVILEGE -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- + HB 75 PERM FUND; EMPLOYMENT; ELIGIBILITY -- Public Testimony <Time Limit May Be Set> -- + SB 166 NOTICE REQS. FOR STATE ACTIONS -- Invited & Public Testimony -- + SB 177 STATE AGENCY PUBLICATIONS -- Invited & Public Testimony -- **Streamed live on AKL.tv** Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled May 10 Saturday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM -- Teleconference <Listen Only> -- + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled 2025-05-07 Senate Journal Page 1179 TRANSPORTATION May 08 Thursday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- SPECIAL COMMITTEES SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ARCTIC AFFAIRS May 08 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled May 15 Thursday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- JOINT COMMITTEES LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL May 07 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 5:15 PM -- Please Note Location Change -- -- Agenda Change -- -- Testimony <Invitation Only> -- **Streamed live on AKL.tv** + AGENDA: I. Call to Order II. Approval of the Agenda III. Approval of Minutes a. March 31, 2025, Minutes IV. Sanctioning of Charitable Events a. Sham Jam—May 10, 2025 V. Executive Session a. RFQ 683—Alaska State Legislature Telephone System Equipment b. Telephone System Services c. Capitol Parking Lot Design, Engineering, and Construction Administration Services VI. Committee Business a. FY26 Computer Hardware Refresh VII. Adjourn