Legislature(1999 - 2000)
04/19/1999 10:25 AM Senate FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
SB 83-SUPPLEMENTAL/CAPITAL APPROPS
HB 50-OPERATING BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS
HB 51-MENTAL HEALTH APPROPRIATIONS
Co-Chair Parnell convened the Senate Finance Committee
meeting, outlining the schedule for hearing of amendments on
the operating budget. He commented that the Committee would
begin working on the amendments from the Department of
Commerce and Economic Development. He advised that if the
funding source was not specified in the amendment, the
amendment would be treated as general fund dollars. The
Senate closeout reports will be adjusted for any position
count changes. Additionally, the Committee will direct the
Division of Legislative Legal and Legislative Finance to
make any technical adjustments to the bill upon completion.
Senator Adams noted that the spreadsheets were difficult to
read and requested that Legislative Finance Division reprint
and provide cut sheets.
Co-Chair Parnell stated it would be possible for Legislative
Finance to provide a component summary.
Co-Chair explained that the work draft, version K,
incorporated HB 50, the entire Front Section with no changes
made and included the subcommittee reports to the back
section.
HOUSE BILL NO. 50
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government, for certain
programs, and to capitalize funds; making
appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17c, Constitution of
the State of Alaska, from the constitutional budget
reserve fund; and providing for an effective date."
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 50(FIN)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government, for certain
programs, and to capitalize funds; making
appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17c, Constitution of
the State of Alaska, from the constitutional budget
reserve fund; and providing for an effective date."
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 50(FIN)(brf sup maj fld)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government, for certain
programs, and to capitalize funds; and providing for an
effective date."
Co-Chair Parnell called the Committee back to order. Co-
Chair Torgerson MOVED SCS CSHB 50(FIN) work draft version
"K". There being NO OBJECTION, it was adopted.
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
Co-Chair Parnell explained the first set of amendments were
to the Department of Administration. It was his intent to
skip to the Department of Commerce and Economic Development.
He noted that the Department of Administration amendments
would be addressed last.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DCED #1. The amendment would reduce the amount paid to the
foreign contractor personnel who act as the field office
liaison in Japan and Korea in the amount of $71,500 dollars.
Senator Donley MOVED DCED #1 on behalf of Representative
Cowdry. Senator Green OBJECTED.
Senator Green explained that because of the proposed
reductions and changes for the millenium plan bill,
financial support be continued for this component.
Senator Adams said he supported the addition of the $71,000
dollars. He stressed the need to continue to diversify the
State's economy. He noted that 50% of our exports go to
these two countries.
Senator Wilken questioned if the issue was "money" or the
fact that there had not been a competitive bid put out.
Senator Donley commented that Representative Cowdry was
concerned about the competitive process. He understood that
the cut would not eliminate the Japanese and Korean office,
but instead reduce the amount to the Senate budget.
In response to Senator Green, Co-Chair Parnell pointed out
the second page of the amendment which illustrated the
allocation reduction. He commented that it was not
Representative Cowdry's intent to "shut down" the Alaskan
presence in these foreign countries, but rather to make them
competitively bid contracts. Co-Chair voiced support for
the amendment.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
OPPOSED: Wilken, Adams, Green
The MOTION PASSED (6-3).
DCED #2. The amendment would add $40 thousand dollars to
the Banking, Securities and Corporations component. Senator
Adams MOVED to adopt DCED #2. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
Co-Chair Parnell advised that any increase to general fund
receipts will be considered an increase to total spending.
Senator Green commented that the amendment would not allow
for any new hire and that there was room for flexibility in
the Division.
Senator Donley asked if user fees were charged for travel
expenses. Senator Adams responded that this amendment would
provide contract services for the banking institute in order
to meet with the Department of Law.
Senator Donley agreed that this was a difficult area. He
recommended that some of the program receipts should be
placed in a different category. The Division of Insurance
also has the same problems. The way it is written makes it
seem as thought the State is spending money rather than
taking it in. Co-Chair Parnell agreed, pointing out that
there are several sections of the budget similar to that.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Wilken, P. Kelly, Leman, Phillips, Donley,
Green, Torgerson, Parnell
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DCED #3. The amendment would add $114 thousand dollars to
the Banking, Securities and Corporations component of the
Department's budget. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt DCEC #3.
Senators Torgerson and Senator Green OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that the component would add extra
funds for a security examiner. Without this position, there
will be no routine examination of investment advice.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Wilken, P. Kelly, Phillips, Donley, Leman,
Green, Torgerson, Parnell
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DCED #4. The amendment would add $233.8 thousand general
fund dollars to the Trade and Development component in the
Executive Administration and Development BRU. Senator Adams
MOVED to adopt DCED #4. Co-Chair Torgerson and Green
OBJECTED.
Senator Adams emphasized that this was the #1 priority for
the Department.
Senator Green responded that business specialist already
occupy these positions.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Leman, P. Kelly, Phillips, Donley, Wilken,
Green, Parnell, Torgerson
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
At 10:55 A.M., Co-Chair Parnell recessed the Senate Finance
Committee meeting until 1:00 P.M.
(Tape SFC-99 #97, Side A, Log #316.)
Co-Chair Parnell reconvened the Committee at 1:20 p.m. All
members were present.
HOUSE BILL NO. 51
"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."
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 51(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."
SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 51(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."
Co-Chair Parnell advised members that it was important to
adopt the Mental Health draft to which some amendments had
been written to. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt SCS CSHB
51(FIN) work draft version "B". There being NO OBJECTION,
it was adopted.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS
DCRA #1. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt DCRA #1. Co-
Chair Parnell explained that this was a PCE program
amendment change. The House left $17 million dollars of
funds in reserve, however, that amount was not remaining in
that fund. The amendment would take that number down to
$4.180 million dollars, which is the amount currently
available in that fund. Senator Adams OBJECTED, that there
was no long-range plan. He suggested that SB 157 was
available to use as a vehicle.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman,
Wilken, P. Kelly, Green, Phillips
OPPOSED: Adams
The MOTION PASSED (8-1).
Co-Chair Parnell HELD amendments DCRA #2 through DCRA #6.
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Corrections #1. The amendment would add $1.827 million
dollars to the Out-of-State Contracts for the Department.
Senator Adams MOVED Corrections #4. Co-Chair Torgerson
OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that the amendment would increase
the number of out-of-state beds by one hundred. Co-Chair
Parnell advised that he opposed any amendments that would
increase the bed count. He stated that he had been working
closely with Commissioner Pugh regarding the concern and
that he had advised her to reevaluate the proposed numbers
since the prison population is decreasing. Senator Adams
questioned the notion that the prison population is
declining.
Senator Phillips asked if he could amend Corrections #1 to
include amendments Corrections #1 through #9. Co-Chair
Parnell explained that there were other amendments included
in that group that were not "bed" related.
Senator Adams had no objection to including all the
amendments bed-related, however, he would ask that the
amendments concerning probation officers not be included in
Corrections #1. Senator Adams MOVED to amend Corrections #1
to include Corrections #3, #5, and #6. There being NO
OBJECTION, Corrections #1 would now include Corrections #3,
A roll call vote was taken on the main motion to adopt
Corrections #1 as amended.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Phillips, Leman, Wilken,
Green
Senator Donley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (1-7).
Corrections #2. The amendment would add $415.1 thousand
general fund dollars to the Southcentral Region Probation
office. Senator Adams MOVED Corrections #2. Co-Chair
Torgerson OBJECTED.
Co-Chair Parnell requested that Corrections #2 be HELD for
later discussion. Senator Adams WITHDREW the MOTION to
adopt Corrections #2 until a later time. There being NO
OBJECTION, Corrections #2 was HELD for further
consideration.
Corrections #3. The amendment had been incorporated into
Corrections #1 and failed.
Corrections #4. The amendment would add $30 thousand
general fund dollars and $95.3 general fund program receipt
dollars to the Institutional Director's Office for the
Department. Senator Adams MOVED Corrections #4. Co-Chair
Parnell OJBECTED.
Senator Adams explained that in the long run it would save
State money while at the same time, positively impacting the
prison population.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Leman, Wilken, P. Kelly,
Green, Phillips
Senator Donley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (1-7).
Corrections #5 had been incorporated into Corrections #1 and
failed.
Corrections #6 had been incorporated into Corrections #1 and
failed.
Corrections #7. Co-Chair Parnell requested that Corrections
Corrections #8. The amendment would delete $96.3 thousand
federal dollars from the Food Service Program and add it to
the Office of the Commissioner. Senator Adams MOVED
Corrections #8. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that the amendment would RSA the
funds to the Department of Law for assistance from the
Attorney General's office on complicated projects. Co-Chair
Parnell understood that the original amendment came from
Senator Ward.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Leman, Wilken, P. Kelly,
Green, Phillips
Senator Donley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (1-7).
Corrections #9. The amendment would add $80 thousand
federal dollars to Administrative Services at Department of
Corrections. Senator Adams MOVED Corrections #9. Co-Chair
Parnell OBJECTED for the purpose of discussion.
Senator Adams explained that the funding would help the
management information system within the Department.
Without the authorization, the Department would be unable to
grant sufficient staff to adequately maintain the agency
network. He emphasized that these would be federal funds.
Co-Chair Parnell WITHDREW his OBJECTION. Senator Leman
OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Wilken, Adams, P. Kelly, Green, Parnell,
OPPOSED: Phillips, Leman, Torgerson
Senator Donley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION PASSED (5-3).
At 1:40 P.M., Co-Chair Parnell recessed the Senate Finance
Committee until 2:05 P.M.
Co-Chair Parnell reconvened the Senate Finance Committee at
approximately 2:05 P.M., noting that Senator Wilken and
Senator P. Kelly were absent.
ALASKA COURT SYSTEM
Co-Chair Parnell noted that there were no amendments for the
Alaska Court System.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
DEC#1. The amendment would delete $1.715 million federal
receipt dollars for the Water Quality component and moving
that amount to the Non-Point Source Pollution Control
component. Additionally, the amendment would add Intent
Language for a New Appropriation. The intent of the
Legislature would be that Section 319(h) federal non-point
source pollution control funding be spent only for grants to
program applicants who qualify for Section 319 funding.
Senator Leman MOVED to adopt DEC #1. There being NO
OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DEC#8. The amendment is a Letter of Intent to accompany
DEC#1. Senator Leman MOVED DEC #8. He explained that it
would work in conjunction with DEC#8 (Letter of Intent).
There being NO OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DEC#2. The amendment would delete a total of $1,531.8
million dollars from the Contaminated Sites component and
Storage Tank Program component and add $6,443.4 million
dollars back to the Contaminated Sites Program component.
Senator Leman MOVED to adopt DEC#2. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
Senator Leman explained the amendment would consolidate two
programs under one BRU, which, he believed would provide the
department more flexibility.
Senator Adams questioned if that action could reduce
administrative services. Senator Leman replied that it
would not, but would however, consolidate them.
Senator Adams maintained his objection to the amendment. He
inquired if there would be a savings. Senator Leman replied
that the savings would come from the reduction in employees
to the storage tank component. Senator Adams emphasized
that the merger of underground storage tanks and above
ground storage tank would not be a good move.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Leman, Phillips, Donley, Green, Parnell,
Torgerson
OPPOSED: Adams
Senator P. Kelly and Senator Wilken were not present for the
vote.
The MOTION PASSED (6-1).
DEC #3. A technical amendment to restore a portion of the
CIP expenditure authority that was deleted as part of the
number of employees in the component for the Storage Tank
Program in the amount of $29.1 thousand dollars. Senator
Leman MOVED to adopt the amendment. There being NO
OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DEC #4. Senator Leman explained that the amendment would
take $126.1 thousand dollars from the Administrative
Services component from two information officers and would
change that amount to the same component to delete two
permanent full-time positions and their funding by applying
a portion of the Governor's belt-tightening. Senator Leman
MOVED to adopt the amendment. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
TAPE SFC - 99 #97, SIDE B
Co-Chair Parnell questioned the role of the information
officers.
BARBARA FRANK, Director, Administrative Services, Department
of Environmental Conservation, explained that the role of
the information officers is to provide information to the
public in a variety of ways. Additionally, they address the
programs related to the regulatory packages and on all major
permit projects, which are part of the permitting appeals
process.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Torgerson, Parnell
OPPOSED: Phillips, Donley, Adams
Senator Wilken was not present for the vote.
The MOTION PASSED (6-3).
DEC #5. The amendment would add $330 thousand satutory
designated program receipt dollars for the Food Safety and
Sanitation component. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the
amendment. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained the need for the amendment and
situations around the State which have resulted in food born
illness. Facilities have traditionally been checked three
to four times a year. Without the funding, the facilities
will only be inspected once every year and a half.
Senator Leman noted that the Subcommittee's goal was to
create no new positions for that Department. He pointed out
that the amendment would add four new positions. Senator
Adams urged that public safety and public health be taken
into consideration and that the situation involves camps and
daycare centers. Co-Chair Parnell advised that $3.4 million
dollars had been funded to that area. Senator Adams
countered that amount would not fulfill the number of
inspectors needed around the State.
Senator Leman clarified there was other legislation that
would address the shifting of some of these responsibilities
to the local governments. Senator Adams argued that it is a
difficult task to project which legislation will pass.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Wilken, Green, Parnell, Torgerson, P. Kelly,
Donley, Phillips, Leman
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DEC #6. The amendment would add $227.2 thousand dollars
from the Response Fund and $5880.3 thousand CIP receipts
dollars to the Storage Tank Program. Senator Adams MOVED
the amendment. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Wilken, Green, Parnell, Torgerson, P. Kelly,
Donley, Phillips, Leman
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DEC #7. The amendment would add $155.8 thousand CIP dollars
to the Village Safe Water Project Management and $64
thousand CIP dollars to the Administrative Services
component. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the amendment.
Senator Leman OBJECTED.
Senator Leman stated that the Subcommittee identified this
area to which the Department was requesting additional
services. He commented that instead of adding new staff
positions to the Department, the Subcommittee recommended
adding to the contractual line, $6 thousand dollars per
community for new feasibility studies. He reiterated that
this is not a good time to be hiring more junior level
engineer positions, given the scope of the project.
Senator Adams explained that the amendment originated with
assistance from Legislative Audit Division. The money from
the amendment would provide technical assistance to the
village areas. Senator Leman argued that the State is
currently providing technical assistance.
Senator Wilken questioned if it was the intent to put new
projects out to bid. Senator Leman explained that the
Village Safe Water Program already puts their projects out
to bid. What they are requesting is the addition of four
more positions to the engineering staff to better address
projects. The Subcommittee suggests that engineers could
better handle them.
Senator Wilken noted that he had a conflict of interest, as
he was a member of a company participating in that group and
requested to be excused from voting. Senator Phillips
OBJECTED. Co-Chair Parnell indicated Senator Wilken would
be required to vote on the amendment.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams, Wilken
OPPOSED: Leman, P. Kelly, Green, Parnell, Torgerson,
Phillips, Donley
The MOTION FAILED (2-7).
DEC #8. The amendment was previously addressed.
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
F&G #1. The amendment would add language regarding the
intent of the Legislature that the Division of Sport Fish to
establish a partnership for the operation of the Crystal
Lake Hatchery in order to reduce by 50% the Division's cost
of operations. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt the
amendment. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
Co-Chair Torgerson advised that the Department had submitted
the amendment.
DOUG MECUM, Director, Division of Commercial Fisheries,
Department of Fish and Game, acknowledged that the
Department supported the amendment.
Senator Adams WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
further OBJECTION, F&G #1 was adopted.
F&G #2. Senator Donley advised the Committee that he would
not be offering F&G #2. The amendment was withdrawn.
F&G #3. The amendment would add $383.65 thousand general
fund dollars to the Headquarters component in the Commercial
Fisheries BRU. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt amendment F&G
Senator Adams noted that funding would replace federal
receipt authority the Subcommittee gave the Department.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Donley, Wilken, P. Kelly, Green, Leman,
Torgerson, Parnell, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
At 2:35 P.M., Co-Chair Parnell recessed the Senate Finance
Committee for a brief at ease.
F&G #4. The amendment would insert language regarding the
expenditure of the Fish and Game Fund. Senator Donley MOVED
to adopt F&G #4. There being NO OBJECTION, it was adopted.
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Co-Chair Parnell noted that there were no amendments from
the Office of the Governor.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES
Co-Chair Parnell stated that the amendments for the
Department of Health and Social Services would be held for
discussion later in the meeting.
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
LABOR #1. The amendment would restore the funding for two
Wage and Hour Technicians. The technicians handle all
notifications of obligations to contractors on public work
projects, disseminates information to contractors, sets up
projects for monitoring, files all certified payroll
received, conducts audits, etc. The amendment would add $88
thousand general fund dollars to the Labor Standards and
Safety BRU. Senator Donley MOVED Labor #1 at the request of
the Department. Senator Green OBJECTED
Senator Green commented that the Subcommittee had worked
with the Department to address this concern.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Donley, Adams
OPPOSED: Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell, Phillips,
Torgerson, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (2-7).
LABOR #2. Senator Donley noted that he would not offer
Labor #2.
LABOR #3. Co-Chair Parnell requested that Labor #3 be HELD.
LABOR #4. The amendment would restore existing positions
and would add funding requested by the Governor for a boiler
inspector in the amount of $238.7 thousand general fund
program receipt dollars. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt Labor
Senator Green explained that the Subcommittee, after working
with the Department, had originally placed $80 thousand
dollars for an inspector position in Fairbanks. Senator
Adams inquired how many were caught in the Juneau elevator
because there were no elevator inspectors. He stressed how
important these positions are for public safety.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DEPARTMENT OF LAW
Co-Chair Parnell noted that there were no amendments from
the Department of Law.
DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
DMVA #1. The amendment would allow the Department to lease
out the Kotzebue Armory and hangar. The funds were budgeted
in the Department of Administration's Leasing budget. In
the Subcommittee for Department of Administration, $125
thousand dollars of receipt authority was dropped as they
thought the facility was vacant. Senator Phillips MOVED
DMVA #1. Senator Adams OBJECTED for further explanation.
Senator Adams asked if program receipts would be used to
rent out the Kotzebue armory. Following an explanation,
Senator Adams WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DMVA #2. The amendment would add $116 thousand general fund
dollars into funds not allocated to Department of Natural
Resources. Senator Phillips MOVED to adopt DMVA #2. Senator
Adams OBJECTED.
Senator Adams commented that the amendment would take
funding from the Department of Natural Resources, which was
intended to be used for land planning and development.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Leman, P. Kelly, Green, Phillips
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Wilken, Adams
Senator Donley was not present for the vote.
The MOTION FAILED (4-4).
DMVA #3. The amendment would add $500 thousand general fund
dollars to the Front Section appropriation for the Disaster
Relief Fund. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt DMVA #3. Senator
Green OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained this would be a wise move in case of
a disaster. It would capture $1.4 million federal fund
dollars.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green. Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
DNR #1. The amendment would change the funding source for
$1.44 million dollars of the appropriation from the general
fund to permanent fund corporate receipts. Co-Chair
Torgerson MOVED to adopt the amendment. Senator Adams
OBJECTED.
Senator Adams asked if the numbers were the same as those
presented in the House. Co-Chair Parnell stated they were.
Senator Adams WITHDREW the OBJECTION.
Senator Phillips OBJECTED. Co-Chair Parnell explained that
the amendment would supplant general fund money in the Oil &
Gas development section with permanent fund corporate
receipts.
The Committee took a brief at ease at approximately 3:00
p.m.
DAVID TEAL, Director, Division of Legislative Finance,
explained the amendment. The money would be used to pay for
operations within the Department of Natural Resources. The
effect on the dividend would not be immediate, nor would it
be $1 million dollars less. In response to Co-Chair Parnell,
Mr. Teal noted that the funding would be used for the oil
and gas development section of Department of Natural
Resources.
Senator Donley asked if there would be a zero impact this
year. Mr. Teal replied that was correct.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Torgerson, Parnell, Donley, P. Kelly, Leman,
Wilken
OPPOSED: Phillips, Green, Adams
The MOTION PASSED (6-3).
DNR #2. The amendment would add $50 thousand statutory
designated program receipt dollars to the Interdepartmental
Data Processing Charge-back in the Information/Data
Management BRU. The action would cover the increased Data
Processing charges that are incurred by the Department when
the public uses State resources for research. There being NO
OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DNR #3. The amendment would provide partial restoration of
unallocated reduction in the amount of $70 thousand dollars
to the Oil and Gas development component and additional
partial restoration in the amount of $45.9 thousand dollars
to the Commissioner's Office component. Senator Adams MOVED
to adopt the amendment. Senator Phillips OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DNR #4. The amendment would add $75 thousand dollars to the
Information Resources Management component for the
Information/Data Management BRU. Senator Adams MOVED to
adopt the amendment. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DNR #5. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the amendment. He
explained that the amendment would restore $726.4 thousand
dollars to the Land Development component BRU and would be
comprised of five deletions within that Department. Senator
Phillips OBJECTED.
Senator Adams emphasized that the addition of funds would
encourage more interaction between the Federal and local
governments.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams, Leman
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Wilken, P. Kelly,
Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (2-6).
TAPE SFC-99 #98, SIDE A
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
DPS #1. The amendment would add $10.764 million dollars to
the Enforcement component of the Fish and Wildlife
Protection and would delete $10.454 million dollars from
that same component. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the
amendment. Senator Green OBJECTED for further discussion.
Senator Green maintained her OBJECTION.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DPS #2. The amendment would add $32,986,900 general fund
dollars to the Detachments component in the Alaska State
Trooper Detachment BRU and would also delete $31,896,900
general fund dollars from the same component. Senator Adams
MOVED to adopt the amendment. Co-Chair Parnell OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that the amendment would provide for
insuring that registration for sex offenders occurs, it
would provide funds to operate the Anchorage helicopter, and
it would provide an information and communication system.
Additionally, it would fund 10 - 12 full time positions.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DPS #3. The amendment would add $5.766 million dollars to
the contract component for the Village Public Safety Officer
(VPSO) BRU and would delete $5.523 million dollars from that
component. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the amendment.
Senator Donley OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that the amendment would fund a 5%
pay increase for the VPSO's, providing a viable income for
those officers.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DPS #4. The amendment would add $1,069,300 general fund
dollars to the ASPIN component in the Statewide Support BRU
and would delete $978,700 general fund dollars from that
component. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt the amendment. Co-
Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Green, P. Kelly,
Leman, Phillips, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DPS #5. The amendment would add $2,203,800 general fund
dollars to the Laboratory Services component in the
Statewide Support BRU and would delete $1,965,300 general
fund dollars from the same component. Senator Adams MOVED
to adopt the amendment. Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED.
Senator Leman questioned who had been the Chair of this
department. It was noted that Senator Donley was Chair.
Senator Leman asked if there were other sources for funding
of DNA inspection which would satisfy crime line criteria.
Senator Donley replied that one additional position had been
added to the Crime Lab in the Senate version.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Donley, Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell,
Phillips, Torgerson, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DPS #6. The amendment would provide intent language that
the Department:
1) Pay no more than 15% for administrative costs to
nonprofit corporations administering the VPSO program;
2) Not exceed 15% administration costs in future
negotiations with nonprofit corporations;
3) Retain 100% of the a decision to place or relocate
VPSO's in communities;
4) Not place a VPSO in a community with established
police department; and
5) Work to relocate VPSO's in communities with
established police departments to communities that need
VPSO's that have no police department.
Senator Donley MOVED to adopt the amendment. Senator Adams
OBJECTED. Senator Adams recommended that this language be
placed into SB 132. He urged that substance law not be
included in the appropriation section of the operating
budget.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Donley, Green, Leman, Parnell, Phillips,
Torgerson, Wilken
OPPOSED: Adams, P. Kelly
The MOTION PASSED (7-2).
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
REV #1. Senator Leman noted that he would not offer REV #1.
REV #2. Senator Leman explained that REV #2 would add $300
thousand general fund dollars to the Oil and Gas Audit
component and would delete $150 thousand general fund
dollars and would add $150 thousand AHFC Corporate Receipts
to the Capital Project-Department of Health and Social
Services - Housing Modifications for People with Special
Needs. Additionally, it would delete $250 thousand general
fund dollars and would add $250 thousand AHFC Corporate
Receipt dollars to the Capital Project-Department of Health
and Social Services-Program Facilities Deferred Maintenance
and Americans with Disabilities Act Upgrade. Senator Leman
MOVED to adopt REV #2.
Co-Chair Parnell explained that the AHFC corporate receipts
were capital funds. He advised that this information was
clarified through an amendment attachment to REV #2. He
requested that Co-Chair Torgerson move that amendment. Co-
Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt the amendment to REV #2.
Co-Chair Parnell commented briefly, explaining that the
amendment would add the $300 thousand general fund dollars
back to the Oil and Gas Audit Division. He recognized that
would be a very important function given the BP and ARCO
merger and the decline in oil production.
Co-Chair Parnell stated that a proposed bill by Senator
Pearce would make these program receipts. The House has
fully funded them in the possibility that SB 134 does not
pass. Senator Adams asked if the designated statutory
program receipts would cover the cost. Co-Chair Parnell
replied that it would cover the cost of oil and gas in the
same amount as those receipts.
There being NO OBJECTION to the amendment to REV #2, it was
ADOPTED. There being NO OBJECTION to the amended REV #2, it
was also adopted.
REV #3. Senator Leman advised that REV #3 would not be
offered.
REV #4. Senator Adams WITHDREW amendment REV #4.
REV #5. The amendment would add $100 thousand dollars to
the Permanent Fund Corporation component. Senator Adams
MOVED to adopt REV #5. Co-Chair Parnell OBJECTED.
Senator Adams explained that "There are times when we need
to spend money to make money." Senator Leman and Senator
Adams discussed the success of the Permanent Fund
Corporations investments. Senator Adams believed it would be
a disservice to not fully fund the amendment request.
Senator Leman pointed out that the proposed House number was
$100,000 higher than the amendment request.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Donley, Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell,
Phillips, Torgerson, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
DOT #1. The amendment would delete $3,548,400 dollars and
insert $3,858,400 dollars into the Construction and CIP
Support-Southeast Region Construction. The amendment would
allow for an increment of $310.0 CIP receipts for HET
position months and overtime for construction projects in
Southeast Alaska. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt the
amendment. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
Senator Donley inquired if the Juneau access road funds
could be used for this component. Co-Chair Torgerson
replied that $200 million dollars had been authorized and
they used $7 million. Senator Donley voiced his continued
concern in authorization without legislative approval.
Senator Adams WITHDREW his OBJECTION. There being NO
OBEJCTION, DOT #1 was adopted.
DOT #2. The amendment would add Intent Language that the
Department prepare a report for the second session of the
21st Alaska Legislature, identifying maintenance stations
and airports in the region that they recommend, to be
consolidated or transferred to local government. Also, all
maintenance stations and airports in these areas should be
ranked in priority order for closure consideration. There
being NO OBJECTION, the amendment was adopted.
DOT #3. The amendment would add $250 thousand general fund
dollars to the Maintenance Stations component for the
Northern & Central Regions BRU. The addition would continue
to fund one maintenance station in each district. Senator
Adams MOVED to adopt the amendment. Co-Chair Torgerson
OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Donley, Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell,
Phillips, Torgerson, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA
Co-Chair Parnell noted that the Committee would not take up
the University of Alaska amendments at this time.
FRONT SECTION
FRONT #1. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt FRONT #1. He
explained there would be a conceptual amendment forthcoming.
He pointed out that the amendment only deals with general
funds and that it was the recommendation of both Legislative
Finance Division and Legislative Legal to include "other"
funds. A corrected version of the amendment is being drafted
by Legislative Legal Services. The intent of the amendment
would be to move the Division of Occupational Licensing from
the back section of the budget to the front section.
Co-Chair Parnell advised the Committee that the conceptual
amendment would include all funds in FRONT #1. Co-Chair
Torgerson agreed and WITHDREW FRONT #1. There being NO
OBJECTION, it was withdraw in order to wait for the new #1.
FRONT #2. Co-Chair Torgerson requested to HOLD FRONT #2.
FRONT #3. The amendment would address Alaska Seafood
Marketing Institute (ASMI) money coming to the State. They
receive $3.5 million in federal funds; their fisheries
provide $7 million dollars. The amendment would move the
authorization entirely to the Front Section of the budget.
Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to adopt FRONT #3. Senator Adams
stated that he would not oppose the amendment, however,
recommended that it be further scrutinized in the future.
There being NO OBJECTION, FRONT #3 was adopted.
FRONT #4. Co-Chair Torgerson advised that he would not
offer FRONT #4.
FRONT #5. Co-Chair Torgerson noted that he would not offer
FRONT #5.
FRONT #6. The amendment would remove the federal authority
portions of the bill which would enable Exxon Valdez to come
forward to Legislative Budget and Audit to get projects
approved not yet addressed. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED to
adopt the amendment. There being NO OBJECTION, the
amendment was adopted.
FRONT #7. The amendment would move the revenues from the
M/V Malaspina to run as a day boat. The amendment would
clarify that it is not Legislative intent to subsidize that
operation. The vessel would become a full program receipt
boat as established in Front #7. Co-Chair Torgerson MOVED
to adopt the amendment. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
Senator Adams commented that the amendment would affect only
one boat, the M/V Malaspina. He stressed that this is
Southeast Alaska's highway system.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Donley, Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell,
Phillips, Torgerson, Wilken
OPPOSED: Adams
The MOTION PASSED (8-1).
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
ADMIN #1. The amendment would add $350 thousand general
fund/program receipt dollars to the Division of Motor
Vehicles BRU. Senator Donley MOVED to adopt ADMIN #1 noting
that it would maintain the Division of Motor Vehicles at
their FY99 authorized funding level. It would also add the
amount from program receipts already collected by the
Division of Motor Vehicles. Senator Adams OBJECTED.
Senator Adams understood that public access had been taken
and that a mail-in program had been established. He noted
that he would not support ADMIN #4.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: P. Kelly, Green, Phillips, Donley
OPPOSED: Leman, Wilken, Parnell, Torgerson, Adams
The MOTION FAILED (4-5).
ADMIN #2. Senator Donley MOVED to adopt ADMIN #2, which is
similar to ADMIN #1, except that it would use the source of
funding the addition of $350 thousand dollars from the
Public Defenders office. Senator Wilken OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Green, Phillips, Donley
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Wilken, Leman, Adams, P.
Kelly
The MOTION FAILED (3-6).
ADMIN #3. Senator Donley WITHDREW the amendment.
ADMIN #4. Co-Chair Parnell requested that Senator Adams not
offer ADMIN #4 as it was a repeat. Senator Adams agreed.
ADMIN #5. The amendment would add $2.4 million dollars to
the Longevity Bonus grants in order to restore the
Governor's request. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt ADMIN #5.
Co-Chair Parnell OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Donley, Green, P. Kelly, Leman, Parnell,
Phillips, Torgerson, Wilken
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
ADMIN #6. Co-Chair Parnell advised that ADMIN #6 had been
withdrawn from the original amendment packets at his
request.
ADMIN #7. The amendment would add Intent Language that the
Office of Public Advocacy be funded adequately. Senator
Adams MOVED to adopt ADMIN #7. Senator Wilken OBJECTED.
TAPE SFC-99 #98, SIDE B
Senator Wilken MOVED an amendment to ADMIN #7. The change
would delete the language: "In order to fulfill all legal
and statutory responsibilities". There being NO OBJECTION
to the amendment to ADMIN #7, it was adopted.
Co-Chair Torgerson OBJECTED to the amended ADMIN #7. He
stated that it would lead to a future supplemental request.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams, Wilken
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, P. Kelly,
Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (2-7).
ADMIN #8. The amendment would add Intent Language to the
Public Defender component that office should be funded
adequately in order to fulfill all legal and statutory
responsibilities. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt ADMIN #8.
Senators Torgerson and Senator Green OBJECTED.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
ADMIN #9. The amendment would add $308.1 thousand general
fund dollars and program receipt dollars to the Pioneer
Homes. Senator Adams MOVED to adopt ADMIN #9. Co-Chair
Torgerson OBJECTED.
Senator Wilken explained that the Subcommittee funded the
Administration's request adding around 50 new care giver
positions to the Pioneer Homes.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Adams
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Donley, Leman, Wilken, P.
Kelly, Green, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (1-8).
ADMIN #10. The amendment would add $420,600 dollars to the
Citizen Foster Care Review Panel, Senior Services BRU.
Senator Adams MOVED to adopt ADMIN #10. Senator P. Kelly
OBJECTED.
Senator Wilken said they did not take the reduction lightly
and that the Subcommittee followed the lead of the House.
Senator Adams pointed out that the other body placed "no"
funding in this component. He recommended that the Senate
not follow that lead.
A roll call vote was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Leman, Adams, P. Kelly, Green
OPPOSED: Parnell, Torgerson, Wilken, Donley, Phillips
The MOTION FAILED (4-5).
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting recessed at 4:25 P.M.
Co-Chair Parnell reconvened the Senate Finance Committee at
approximately 7:57 P.M. and then adjourned the meeting until
April 20, 1999 at 9:00 A.M.
SFC-99 (24) 04/19/99 a.m.
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