Legislature(2001 - 2002)
04/17/2002 04:04 PM 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
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 403(FIN) am(brf sup maj fld)(efd fld)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan
program expenses of state government, for certain programs,
and to capitalize funds."
SENATE BILL NO. 289
"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. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from the
constitutional budget reserve fund; and providing for an
effective date."
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 404(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 BILL NO. 288
"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."
PATRICIA SEYBERG, from Dillingham, testified in Juneau about the
effects of the proposed budget reductions to Emergency Medical
Services (EMS) in rural areas. She detailed the services provided.
Senator Hoffman asked if the seven EMS regions cover the entire
state.
Ms. Seyberg affirmed.
MAKO HAGGERTY, Chair, Kachemak Bay Parks Board testified via
teleconference from Homer to request funding for state parks at the
highest level. Parks are a destination, he asserted and the
condition of parks leaves a lasting impression on visitors. He
stressed that an entire economic sector depends on parks.
JOSH PERRY testified via teleconference from Homer that he
volunteers for the State parks system. He stressed the importance
of parks to visitors and residents. He urged the State to commit to
investing in parks.
JOSHUA DUFFUS, Employee, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation,
Department of Natural Resources, testified via teleconference from
Homer to urge support for state park funding, as reductions would
be a "backward step." He stated improvements to parks would enhance
them.
KATHEE KIEFER, volunteer for State parks, testified via
teleconference from Homer to urge the Committee to not reduce State
park funding.
LISA RUOFF testified via teleconference from Homer, to request the
Committee add funding instead of decrease funding for the State
parks budget.
JENNIFER REINHART testified via teleconference from Homer and urged
a general fund increase for the University of Alaska for economic
benefits.
ROGER MCCAMPBELL, Park Ranger, Division of Parks and Outdoor
Recreation, Department of Natural Resources, testified via
teleconference from Homer to voice that the State park system is an
"incredibly efficient system." He asked the Committee to restore
the budget for State parks.
Senator Leman stated that the Senate Finance Committee substitute
restores half of the amount reduced by the House of
Representatives. He stressed that efforts are continuing to address
the park system budget.
JOEY EASEMAN, college student, testified via teleconference from
Homer and urged full funding for the University of Alaska to allow
people to get an education to allow them to become assets rather
than burdens to the State.
KEITH IVERSON, lodge owner, testified via teleconference from Homer
that the trail systems are becoming more popular and stressed that
eco-tourism is a benefit.
MARILYN ROSENE, testified via teleconference from Dillingham, to
emphasize that staff turnover is very high in the local school. She
urged adequate funding for schools to support recruitment and
retention of employees.
DOROTHY LARSON, Tribal Administrator, testified via teleconference
from Dillingham to urge no decreases in funding for alcohol and
drug programs as this would result in reductions or closure of
programs in treatment facilities.
DEANNA HARDIN, Employee, Head Start program, testified via
teleconference from Dillingham and urged full funding for rural
university campuses, as teaching certificates are required for Head
Start teachers. She cited the preferential for local hiring.
CRISTY WILLER TILDEN testified via teleconference from Dillingham
to urge support for treatment programs. She noted they have been
flat funded for 14 years; however, costs have increased and the
program has received outside support. She stressed this funding is
limited and that a 20 percent reduction in grant income would
result in closure of the program. She stressed that residents of
the area are willing to contribute to the State's treasury in the
form of an income tax.
JENNIFER JONES-MOLINA, teacher, testified via teleconference from
Dillingham to inform the Committee that as a teacher she fills
several roles: teacher, social worker, and classroom custodian. She
stressed she needs training on how to implement State mandated
programs. She urged the Legislature to put the State's children
first and increase funding for schools.
Co-Chair Donley cited the National Education Association 1999
governing sourcebook, in noting that Alaska ranks very high in the
per capita amount of funds it contributes to education.
PEARL STRUB, parent, representative of an agency assisting people
to get employment, and board member of UA campus testified via
teleconference from Dillingham and urged full funding of the
University of Alaska budget. She listed the number of degrees
awarded at the Bristol Bay Campus.
DON FORD, parent and school board member, testified via
teleconference from Dillingham and stated that education is a
resource. He asserted that costs are increasing at the same time
local communities are "willingly" contributing more toward
education expenses. He spoke to the limited percentage of the State
budget appropriated to education.
Co-Chair Donley clarified that the 14 percent of total state
funding for education referenced by the witness is "distorted". He
explained that the total budget includes a "massive influx" of over
one billing dollars in federal funding for highways. He expressed
that the commitment to funding education in Alaska has not
diminished and that over the past ten years, the Legislature has
increased its investment of general funds from 28 percent to 34
percent for K - 12 education.
ANNE FRITZE, University of Alaska student, testified via
teleconference from Dillingham to encourage full funding support
for the local university campus. She informed she is financially
unable to move her family to Fairbanks or Anchorage where the major
campuses are located, and that the Dillingham campus allows her to
obtain an education while maintaining full-time employment.
SONNY LEVEQUE, Student, University of Alaska, testified via
teleconference from Dillingham to remind the Committee that
universities are not businesses designed to earn a profit but that
providing an education benefits the economy. He spoke of student
housing and the ability for students in rural areas to remain in
their own homes while attending schools in their community. He also
supported funding alcohol and mental illness treatment efforts.
TINA BARGER, Program Monitor, SAFE, testified via teleconference
from Dillingham about the importance of continuing this domestic
violence program serving the Bristol Bay Region. She highlighted
the activities of the "sister" organization
SFC 02 # 63, Side B 04:52 PM
NELS ANDERSON, JR., Member, Bristol Bay Campus Council, testified
via teleconference from Dillingham to thank the Legislature for the
support of the past few years. He spoke of the fishing disasters
that occurred in the last two years and the difficulty of fishermen
in obtaining alternate employment. He urged full support of rural
university campuses, as they promote economic development.
DIXIE LANDENBURGER, Team Leader, Seaview Community Services,
testified via teleconference from Seward to request the Committee
no reduce funding for substance abuse treatment programs. She
supported the proposed alcohol tax and encouraged additional
revenue sources rather than reduced services.
MELANIE WEEMS, testified via teleconference from Seward to request
support for alcohol and substance abuse treatment services.
JANET BUCHANAN testified via teleconference from Seward and read a
statement from Randy Crystal, a resident in a substance abuse
treatment program. She quoted that he is a 48-year old man who
suffers from depression and relayed his need for treatment to
resume being a productive member of society.
ANGUS KUNZ testified via teleconference from Seward about his
illness and the need for treatment.
SUNG KIM LINDER testified via teleconference from Seward on behalf
of the local mental health clinic and other patients of that
clinic. He told of his mental illness.
DOUG DISORCIE, Employee, Prince William Sound Community College,
testified via teleconference from Valdez about the independently
accredited school that is a part of the University of Alaska
system. He requested continued funding for the University and he
listed names of students who support funding the University of
Alaska.
JANICE JOHNSON testified via teleconference from Valdez to fully
support funding for the University of Alaska. She believed it is
the responsibility of the University to contribute to Alaska's
workforce. She stressed the need for diversity in the State's
education system, which rural campuses play a vital part.
CORRINE ERICKSON-ENVOY, Salvation Army, and "other social service
agencies", testified via teleconference from Cordova about the need
for funding alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs. She
stated this is important to avoid continued prison growth.
NICHOLE SONGER, Family Resource Center, testified via
teleconference from Cordova in opposition to funding reductions.
She spoke of the consequences of a 20 percent funding reduction on
many agencies particularly in rural locations.
DENNY WEATHERS testified via teleconference from Cordova to her
approval of the Legislature's attempt to balance the State budget.
She stated that Alaska has a republic form of government, "one in
which the power and sovereignty are vested in the people and
exercised by the people, either directly or through their
representatives chosen by the people to whom the powers are
specifically delegated." She opined that "God created man, man
created the constitution and the constitution created government"
which subsequently created "the public service." She stressed that
many government functions are not mandated and that government
agencies have "usurped the powers that rightfully belong to the
people." She asserted many State programs should have further
budget reductions. She quoted Thomas Jefferson warning about the
consequences of a large government.
JAMES FISHER, Soldotna resident, testified via teleconference from
Kenai and asked if Committee members could "look the Alaska public
in the eye to explain how you failed to institute reasonable
financial support for their essential State services." He warned
that even limited budget reductions would result in the reduced
health and safety of all Alaskans. He asked how budget reductions
would improve the life of Alaskans.
ROSEMARY REEDER, Soldotna Community Schools, testified via
teleconference from Kenai that the proposed budget reductions to
the community schools programs would be detrimental. She informed
this funding allows the program to operate facilities and also
leverage additional funds.
GRACE MERKES, Head Start Program, testified via teleconference from
Kenai, thanked the Senate for their support and stressed the
importance of the Head Start Program for low-income children. She
stated the federal government funds the program at 80 percent and
the State funds it at 20 percent.
ROSEMARY BUSHON, Head Start, testified via teleconference from
Kenai to urge funding for the Head Start program. She shared the
positive results she has seen in the children in the program. She
stated that teacher salaries are low and this needs to be
addressed.
Senator Wilken asked Ms. Reeder if she was aware the Senate Finance
committee substitute allocates $300,000 to the community school
program although the House of Representatives had allocated no
funds for this program.
Ms. Reeder had understood the House of Representatives approved
funding $500,000 and the Senate Finance Committee reduced the
amount to $300,000.
Senator Wilken clarified that the House of Representatives approved
a $500,000 unallocated budget reduction to the Department of
Education and Early Development, which the Department testified it
intended to take from the Community Schools program, leaving that
program with zero funding.
MARJORIE J. HAYES, Alaska Commission on Aging, Mental & Personal
Health, testified via teleconference from Kenai and asked for
funding for mental health and parks programs.
JASON ELSON, retired Fire Chief, City of Kenai; President, Kenai
Peninsula Fire Chiefs Association; Member, Alaska Fire Chiefs
Association; and Chair, Board of Directors, Southern Region
Emergency Medical Services Council, testified via teleconference
from Kenai to the proposed funding reductions to the State's EMS
grant program. He stated the reductions would affect the services
that fire departments are able to provide, notably in some
communities located along the road system. He pointed out that
federal funds are utilized to operate the Code Blue program,
although State matching funds are required.
KATIE STAFFORD, Supervisor, Division of Family and Youth Services,
and Member, National Association of Social Workers, testified via
teleconference from Kenai, and spoke to children's needs in the
community as the result of reduced funding for drug and alcohol
treatment program as well as for mental health programs. She
emphasized that more families would feel the effects of these
reductions.
JAMES SHILL, Executive Director, Central Peninsula Counseling
Services, testified via teleconference from Kenai regarding funding
for mental health programs. He stated the proposed funding levels
would affect many people who could not otherwise afford treatment.
Senator Green asked which specific mental health program the
witness was testifying to.
Mr. Shill responded that the "general mental health" program
funding has been reduced "in almost every budget cycle". He
expressed this impacts the "working class" sector that does not
have other health insurance coverage.
Senator Green countered that the Senate Finance committee
substitute proposed budget reflects funding increases for all
mental health services compared to the budget approved by the House
of Representatives.
Mr. Shill stressed that the budgets of the past three fiscal years
have been reduced for general mental health services and that the
current funding proposal contains a three-percent reduction from
the previous year.
Senator Green pointed out a $150,000 finding increase from FY 02 to
services for the chronic mentally ill.
Mr. Shill clarified that services for people who are employed and
therefore do not qualify for Medicaid are the ones affected by the
budget reductions. He listed contractors to the petroleum industry
and fishing guides and commercial fishers as examples. He agreed
that the chronically mentally ill and children have not been
impacted.
Senator Green clarified the Senate Finance committee substitute
provides more funding than the appropriation adopted by the House
of Representatives.
Senator Ward requested written documentation from the witness on
the impacts of the budget reductions.
DON ROBERTS JR. testified via teleconference from Kodiak that the
proposed budget as well as SB 340 "make a mockery of what a
democracy is or what at least a democracy ought to be: everybody
contributing what they can." He asserted that the proposed budget
is the result of the "well-to-do" attempting to maintain "their
privileged status on the backs of the poor and disabled." He
furthered that, "cutting equally is not the same as cutting
fairly."
PAT HOLMES testified via teleconference from Kodiak in support of
the Senate Majority's past efforts to reduce the budget. He opined,
"you've kind of got things down to the bone" and that revenue
increases should now be considered. He supported a State income
tax, a head tax for school funding, and a "modest" sales tax.
EVERETT STONE testified via teleconference from Kodiak to protest
the elimination of food sanitation inspection positions. He told of
an outbreak of contamination at a local seafood processing plant.
He warned that the elimination of this position would damage the
seafood industry's reputation.
Senator Leman clarified the Senate Finance Committee proposal does
not eliminate this position. He asserted the Senate agrees that
sanitation is important.
DAVE JONES, Director of Finance, Kodiak School District testified
via teleconference from Kodiak to thank the Committee for the
increased funding for pupil transportation and learning opportunity
grants. He cautioned, however, that the same funding is not
"maintenance", as costs increase. He told of the difficulties in
attracting quality teachers to the district.
PAT CARLSON, Manager, Kodiak Island Borough, testified via
teleconference from Kodiak that he recognized the difficulties of
the Committee in funding programs. He asserted the permanent fund
was intended for "a rainy day" and encouraged the Committee to
develop a fiscal plan, focusing on fee-based services. He supported
an income tax as a method to offset the costs of education.
SFC 02 # 64, Side A 05:40 PM
Mr. Carlson commented that a population-based revenue stream is
necessary to offset the cost of education.
CAROLYN FLOYD, Mayor, City of Kodiak, testified via teleconference
from Kodiak to address three items. She encouraged support of
revenue sharing, warning that any reduction would harm the local
government in that it would require additional local taxes. She
supported legislation to expand community jails, describing the
conditions of the old community jail located in Kodiak and its
limited ability to address juvenile offenders. She also supported
funding the Marine Highway System, asserting this is the highway
for many coastal communities.
PAT BRANSON, Assembly Member, Executive Director, Senior Citizens
of Kodiak, as well as a member of several non-profit organizations,
testified via teleconference from Kodiak about her concerns about
the quality of life in Alaska that would be reduced if programs
were not fully funded. She spoke of the need for adequate food
sanitation in the kitchen facilities utilized by the senior citizen
organization.
Senator Leman reiterated that the Senate Finance committee
substitute restored most of the necessary funding for food
sanitation operations and would continue to restore necessary
funds.
Ms. Branson then requested increased funding for the education
foundation funding formula.
MIKE MILLIGAN testified via teleconference from Kodiak about
increased health care costs as they relate to veterans, inmates and
all state agencies. He asserted he does not have health insurance
and that he depends on his permanent fund dividend to cover his
health care expenses as well as to pay his property taxes. He
supported new revenues and some budget reductions.
GABRIELLE LEDOUX, Mayor, Kodiak Island Borough, testified via
teleconference from Kodiak to encourage the Committee to develop a
long-term fiscal plan. She warned of the consequences to local
communities if this is not done.
BETTY WALTERS, Superintendent, Kodiak Island School District,
testified via teleconference from Kodiak to request the Committee
consider the essential services across the State, primarily
education.
CARL BERGER, Member, Bethel City Council, testified via
teleconference from Bethel on his own behalf. He asked why only
budget reductions are being considered, such as funding for State
parks, public broadcasting, and international trade. He stressed
that revenue sources must be considered. He asked the Senate
Majority to participate in efforts to create a long-term fiscal
plan. He asserted that the State income tax should be reinstated.
BOB MEDINGER, University of Alaska graduate, Director, University
of Alaska-Fairbanks, Kuskokwim Campus, testified via teleconference
from Bethel that fully funding the University of Alaska would
provide qualified workers for health care and other needed fields.
BING SANTAMOUR, Former Student, Alumni, Chair, Advisory Council,
University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Kuskokwim Campus, testified via
teleconference from Bethel about the importance of funding this
facility. She stressed that an educated public should be
considered.
ALEXANDRIA MORTENSON, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks,
Kuskokwim Campus, testified via teleconference from Bethel in
support of funding rural university campuses. She stressed that
education provides tools to build stronger communities.
KEN ROBERSON, Vice-Chair, Copper River EMS Council, testified via
teleconference from Glennallen about the EMS services the council
provides and the area it covers. He stated the amount of funding
has decreased over the last 15 years and has never increased. He
remarked that this has resulted in the need to charge higher rates
for services and to provide lower quality patient care.
DAVE LEMAIRE, Copper River EMS, testified via teleconference from
Glennallen to reiterate the previous witness. He listed the revenue
generated from the 911 tax and the increased equipment costs.
MARNIE GRAHAM testified via teleconference from Glennallen to
address funding for public education. She asserted that Quality
Schools initiatives and the No Child Left Behind Act are only as
good as the funding to implement them. She told of the poor
conditions of the school facility and informed that her salary in
an education facility is lower than it was when she was hired
despite incremental increases and pay raises, because they do not
keep pace with inflation.
MARILYN MENISH MEUCCI testified via teleconference from Petersburg
that the legislators are in Juneau for the benefit of Alaska. She
asserted that the Legislature is reducing funding for "everything
that helps our State function and be a place that people want to
live in and raise a family." She stressed that legislators must
become focused and develop a long-term fiscal plan. She opposed a
sales tax because Petersburg has a local sales tax, and she
supported an income tax.
BILL TREMBLEY, Member, City Council, testified via teleconference
from Petersburg that although the Legislature has met budget
reductions, it is time to restore funding. He stated that it is
time for an income tax. He compared the revenue generated by timber
activities to the higher amounts generated by tourism. He did not
support a statewide sales tax.
PAUL ANDERSON, President, Thomas Bay Power, and past candidate for
State Senate, testified via teleconference from Petersburg that "it
has been raining for the past seven years". He urged the Committee
not hamper the future governor and administration. He stated that
if the permanent fund must be utilized, it should be done.
MARLYS TEDIN, Member, State Parks Advisory Board, testified via
teleconference from Sitka about the location of the State parks in
the Sitka area along the road system. She stated these parks could
not be closed and are heavily used by tourists and that the boat
ramps are needed for search and rescue operations. She supported a
state income tax.
SCOTT MCADAMS testified via teleconference from Sitka to express
support for maintaining and expanding social service agencies. He
stated these agencies provide important services as well as provide
living wages to employees.
AT EASE 6:14 PM / 6:57 PM
JAN MACCLARENCE, Alaska Mental Health Board and Executive Director,
Abused Women's Aid in Crisis, testified via teleconference from
Anchorage on behalf of the mental health community and the
Anchorage social services community. She detailed the services
provided by these organizations and the consequences of funding
reductions.
PETER MACKSEY, Community Schools testified via teleconference from
Anchorage that he did not approve of the proposed funding
reductions. He suggested reducing the budgets of the Alaska Science
and Technology Foundation and the Alaska Industrial Development and
Export Authority, offering land sales and reusing equipment in
rural communities rather than purchasing new.
Co-Chair Donley commented that he related to the witness's
concerns.
JOAN FISHER, Executive Director, Anchorage Health Center, testified
via teleconference from Anchorage that she understood the
difficulties in balancing the budget as she does that in her job as
well as the people the organization serves do in their own lives.
RICH SEWELL, Board Member, Alumni Association, University of
Alaska-Anchorage, testified via teleconference from Anchorage to
support full funding. He appreciated the increased funding in the
past several years after many years of "neglect". He informed of
the number of alumni residing in Co-Chair Donley's election
district.
CHERIE NORTHON, Professor, School of Engineering, University of
Alaska-Anchorage, testified via teleconference from Anchorage about
the need for an addition faculty position to allow students to
obtain a certificate in the newly instituted Geographic Information
Systems program in one year rather than two or more years.
SISTER MOREEN MCPORTLAND, Admissions Advocate, Catholic Social
Services and Interim Director, St. Francis House, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage and described the services the
organization provides to allow recipients to take control of their
lives. She stated that the volunteer coordinator position is funded
through this grant and that the center employs three State
employees with the remainder of the work conducted by volunteers.
SARA JACKSON, Manager, St. Francis House, Catholic Social Services,
testified via teleconference from Anchorage that she appreciated
the Committee has reinstated most funding for human services
management grants.
SFC 02 # 64, Side B 07:11 PM
Ms. Jackson continued that she favors the establishment of a State
income tax.
JOHN RILES, Physician Assistant, Anchorage Neighborhood Health
Center, testified via teleconference from Anchorage in favor of
full funding of Chronic and Acute Medical Assistance (CAMA)
program. He listed the ailments the patients have who are served by
this program and the importance of receiving medication.
PHILIP KAUFMAN, Social Worker, Division of Family and Youth
Services, testified via teleconference from Anchorage to stress
that the high caseloads harm children and told of the delays of
providing the necessary services. He stressed the importance of
treatment of children remaining in their homes, but pointed out
that if counselors are unavailable, the child must be removed. He
stated that funds would be better spent for these programs than for
new trucks and equipment.
ROBIN KORNFIELD, Board Member, Alaska Public Broadcasting, and
Employee, NANA Regional Corporation, testified via teleconference
from Anchorage about the job losses that budget reductions would
have on public broadcasting.
MARK WOLBERS, University of Alaska-Anchorage, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage that the University is beginning to
meet its faculty needs. He cited the US News and World Report
indicating that the University of Alaska-Anchorage employs 56 full
time faculty positions, which he asserted is "embarrassing".
LEIGH CARRIGAN, mother of six, and Board Member, Infant Learning
Program/Programs for Infants and Children, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage about the federal funding that would
be lost without an adequate state appropriation. She told of her
son's hearing disabilities and the positive results of his
participation in the programs.
TIM HUNTERBERGER, Faculty Member, University of Alaska-Anchorage
testified via teleconference from Anchorage to request full funding
of the University. He noted the House of Representatives approved
funding at the previous year level, and that it has been suggested
that flat funding is adequate. However, he stressed expenses have
risen and that programs must be expanded.
KATHY HARRISON, Infant Learning Program/Programs for Infants and
Children, testified via teleconference from Anchorage about the
program and to urge the Committee to not approve the $1 million
reduction to the program as proposed. She warned that if the
program becomes one based on income needs, federal funds would be
lost. She stressed that providing these services while children are
young would save money in the long term.
MERRILEE HARRELL, 1997 Honors Graduate, University of Alaska-
Anchorage testified via teleconference from Anchorage that she has
received her law degree and is practicing in Anchorage. She stated
the State needs qualified workers such as engineers and even
politicians. She stressed that when Alaskan students are sent
Outside to be educated, money is sent out as well and that many
former residents do not return.
EVA STANLEY, Disabled Alaskan, testified via teleconference from
Anchorage that she would often go hungry if not for the programs
provided by the Catholic Social Services.
GEORGE SMITH, Disabled Alaskan, testified via teleconference from
Anchorage about his reliance on Catholic Social Services programs
and the limited resources available through state-run programs.
JOELLE HALL, Alaskans for Tobacco Free Kids, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage to thank the Legislature for creating
the Tobacco Use Education and Cessation Fund. She reminded the
Committee of the commitment to allocate 20 percent of Alaska's
tobacco settlement income to this program. She asked this continue
to occur. She spoke to the success and importance of tobacco
cessation programs. She requested to be taxed on her income so she
could deduct that amount from her federal income taxes.
ED EARNHART testified via teleconference from Anchorage that some
legislators are "mean spirited" in attitudes toward the poor and
those who are incarcerated. He suggested that instead the
legislature should develop other revenue sources. He supported an
income tax applied to high-income earners. He complained about
longevity bonuses paid to wealthier older Alaskans.
LUKE SULLIVAN, 15 years old, Member, Alaska Cancer Society, Youth
Coalition, testified via teleconference from Anchorage about the
misperceptions of teenagers who smoke. He asserted these young
people are not always from "bad families" and are poor.
BRITTNEY HUFF, Alaska Cancer Society, testified via teleconference
from Anchorage to stress the peer pressure at her school to smoke.
She requested that 20 percent of tobacco settlement funds be
allocated to smoking cessation and prevention programs.
CHRISTINE STURGIS testified via teleconference from Anchorage that
she works in the child protection field. She was encouraged that
the proposed funding reductions are less than approved by the House
of Representatives, but she urged that services could not be cut.
She warned of the consequences.
MYRA CASEY, 22-year Anchorage Resident, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage that she came to the State as a
single parent and that her grown children are successful in part
because she was able to receive many services. She stressed that
many adults in the correction system were abused or neglected as
children. She stated that society owes children the right to grow
up in healthy environment.
TRAVIS ERICKSON testified via teleconference from Anchorage that he
has been involved in child protection services for many years. He
told of his view of social workers as a tired overworked woman with
one arm tied behind her back making her best effort to assist
children.
Senator Green stressed the Senate Finance committee substitute
includes funding for every social worker position as requested by
the Governor as well as $4 million more than the amount approved by
the House of Representatives. She furthered that funding for family
and youth services has increased $4 since the previous year.
Mr. Erickson clarified that he acknowledged and appreciated that no
funding reduction would be made to social worker positions and to
the Balloon Project.
Senator Green and Mr. Erickson continued debating the matter of
funding for family preservation and substance abuse treatment.
MARILYN BORELL testified via teleconference from Anchorage to
encourage the Committee to fully fund the University of Alaska. She
stated this is necessary for those students who could not afford to
attend school out of State. She added those who could afford out of
state tuitions also must be considered to entice them to attend
college in Alaska.
PATRICK LUBY, American Association of Retired People (AARP),
testified via teleconference from Anchorage to urge continued
support of the food safety program in the Department of
Environmental Conservation. He told of the food services provided
for elderly residents, which must be inspected to qualify for
federal funding.
Co-Chair Donley informed this item had been sufficiently funded. He
noted that in all other states, food inspections is function of
local governments and asked if witness agreed this should be done
locally.
Mr. Luby stressed he is not an expert in the matter; however he
surmised if the duties were transferred, the argument would be made
that the State was placing an unfunded mandate on local
governments.
ERICA JOSELY, Social Worker, testified via teleconference from
Anchorage to thank the Committee for restoring funding for social
workers. She was concerned with lack of a long-term fiscal plan and
encouraged such a plan rather than continued budget reductions
because they would affect children.
DON VALESKO, Business Manager, Public Employees Union, testified
via teleconference from Anchorage that he is optimistic about the
future of the State. He referenced several testifiers requesting
that funding not be reduced for the programs they represent, yet
also asserted they are willing to contribute to the State's
operating expenses. He charged that the legislature must "get in
tune with public's message" and develop a plan for economic
development.
STEVE BYE, Supervisor, Cook Inlet Tribal Council, welfare to work
program, testified via teleconference from Anchorage about his
involvement in the program. He stated the change of philosophy has
reduced the caseload of public assistance counselors, but stressed
further efforts are necessary. He told of the families still trying
to find work, often complicated by addictions. He shared his
concern regarding the elimination of the hold harmless provision of
the permanent fund dividend program in meeting income
qualifications for public assistance benefits.
Co-Chair Donley clarified that the permanent fund dividend is not
constitutionally mandated.
EMILY NENON, American Cancer Society, testified via teleconference
from Anchorage to thank legislature for creating the Tobacco Youth
Education and Cessation fund. She asserted that tobacco use remains
the number one cause of preventable death in Alaska.
EILEEN THOMPSON, 1994 Graduate, and Board Member, Alumni
Association, University of Alaska-Anchorage, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage to urge fully funding the University.
She told of her two children who would attend the University of
Alaska.
KAREN HODGE, "Mental Illness Consumer", testified via
teleconference from Anchorage about her history in overcoming her
illness.
SFC 02 # 65, Side A 07:59 PM
Ms. Hodge continued that the proposed funding level for the Alaska
Mental Health Board would require the Board to hold one less
meeting each year and she spoke to the importance to her of each
meeting.
BONNY HEADLY, Head Start, University of Alaska-Anchorage, testified
via teleconference from Anchorage to support education on "both
ends of the spectrum" in both early development and secondary
education. She told of the difficulties of teaching with limited
resources.
TRACY ELLSWORTH, voter, testified via teleconference from Anchorage
about brain research as it relates to early education. She told of
the benefits of healthy environments for young children, giving
examples of specific children.
ROCKEY PLOTNIK, Chair Elect, Alaska Tobacco Control Alliance,
testified via teleconference from Anchorage about the statewide
organization's comprehensive plan was budgeted at $8.1 million. She
stated that the 20 percent of tobacco settlement funds deposited to
the Tobacco Use Education and Cessation Fund would be $6.6 million.
She urged the Committee maintain this level of funding.
BRENDA NEWBURN testified via teleconference from Anchorage about
the relationship between children and parents. She noted parenthood
does not come with a manual. She told of a bumper sticker "children
are people too".
DAVE LANDERD, Lifelong Alaskan, and small business owner, testified
via teleconference from Anchorage that he has "no ax to grind" as a
social services representative. However, he asserted "I think what
you're doing is just wrong." He stated he is willing to pay income
taxes to support social services. He warned of the consequences of
not providing these services expressing, "you're going to turn this
State into the moral equivalent of a car up on blocks."
SUSAN TRAPP, testified via teleconference from Anchorage to warn if
budget reductions are made to substance abuse treatment and mental
health services the consequences would be realized in correctional
and public safety aspects. She stated she had been arrested 83
times.
NANCY BUSHEY, director of a residential substance abuse treatment
center, testified via teleconference from Anchorage about her
concerns to reductions to substance abuse treatment programs.
JOHN PENDREY, treatment coordinator at the same residential
substance abuse treatment center, and President, Alaska Chemical
Dependency Counselors Association, testified via teleconference
from Anchorage that chemical dependency is a family disease.
ELAINE DAHLGREN, Director, Volunteers of America, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage that the organization provides
substance abuse treatment to youth. She told of the trend of
increased alcohol and drug dependency and warned that not treating
addictions would only increase this trend.
Co-Chair Donley thanked the testifiers.
Senator Hoffman hoped the members would remember the testimony of
the witnesses today when considering amendments to the committee
substitute.
Senator Green reminded that the "simplest computations" on the
increase to the Department of Health and Social Services budget is
$105 million, which she pointed out, is the amount of the budget of
up to four other State agencies.
Co-Chair Donley noted the $105 million for Department of Health and
Social Services is required in a year with a projected $850 million
deficit. He stressed that the State budget in Alaska is 2.7 times
the national average in per capita spending, which is almost twice
the amount of the second highest state. He furthered that Alaska
has the most "generous" entitlement spending.
Senator Hoffman understood but noted the budget increases are for
entitlement programs in which the State has little control. He
stated that other programs, such as substance abuse, where the
State has control, must be funded because of the impact on
families.
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Dave Donley adjourned the meeting at 08:17 PM
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