Legislature(2003 - 2004)
05/07/2004 07:09 AM Senate 375
| Audio | Topic |
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
MINUTES
HB 375 & HB 377 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
May 07, 2004
7:09 AM
TAPES
CC-04 # 2, Side A
CC-04 # 2, Side B
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Lyda Green convened the meeting at approximately 7:09 AM.
PRESENT
Senator Lyda Green, Chair
Senator Gary Wilken
Senator Lyman Hoffman
Representative John Harris, Vice Chair
Representative Bill Williams
Representative Eric Croft
Also Attending: DAVID TEAL, Director, Division of Legislative
Finance; KATHRYN DAUGHHETEE, Director Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Law; NICO BUS, Administrative Services
Manager, Division of Support Services, Department of Natural
Resources;
Attending via Teleconference: There were no teleconference
participants.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
HB 375-APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS
HB 377-APPROP:MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET
The Committee addressed conferrable items from the Department of
Administration, Department of Environmental Conservation,
Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Law, ///
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 375(FIN) am
"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."
SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 375(FIN) am S(brf sup maj
fld S)
"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."
AND
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 377(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. 377(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."
[Note: Items refer to motion sheets (copies on file). "House" and
"Senate" refer to the committee substitute version passed by each
body. "Amount" refers to the change to the amount proposed in the
Governor's Amended budget request.]
Department of Administration
Item: # 1
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Finance
Description: Reduce general funds by 5%
Version: House plus $135,100
Amount: -$100,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and it was ADOPTED without
objection.
Item: # 2
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Finance
Description: Add statutory designated program receipts (SDPR)
for additional startup costs of Central Travel Office
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: # 3
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Labor Relations
Description: Reduce general funds by 10%
Version: House
Amount: -$96,100 general funds
Item: #4
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Purchasing
Description: Reduce overall total budget to FY 03 Actual level
Version: House
Amount: -$18,800 general funds
Item: #5
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Retirement and Benefits
Description: Reduce Travel and Commodities
Version: House
Amount: -$68,300 Group Ben
-126,900 P/E Retire
-48,800 Teach Ret
Item: #6
Appropriation: Centralized Administrative Services
Allocation: Group Health Insurance
Description: Eliminate Travel Authorization
Version: House
Amount: -$22,200 Group Ben
Representative Harris moved for adoption and items 2 through 6 were
ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #7
Appropriation: Leases
Allocation: Leases
Description: Add general fund to fund additional leasing costs
at $2 million level
Version: House minus $385,900
Amount: $385,900 general funds
Note: The House position is intended to avoid and FY 05
supplemental appropriation and allow the transfer of lease
funding to agencies in order to encourage actions to reduce
lease costs. See items 14 and 15.
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Senator Hoffman asked if a FY 05 supplemental appropriation would
be anticipated.
Representative Harris responded that the Department does not
anticipate such, but qualified the situation could change.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #8
Appropriation: Leases
Allocation: Lease Administration
Description: Reduce Lease Administration to FY 03 Total level
Version: House
Amount: -$31,900 general funds
Item: #9
Appropriation: Legal and Advocacy Services
Allocation: Office of Public Advocacy
Description: Decrease for prioritization and correction of
billing and payment issues
Version: House
Amount: -$50,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #10
Appropriation: Legal and Advocacy Services
Allocation: Office of Public Advocacy
Description: Establish full funding for a Social Services
Specialist II for the Anchorage Wellness Court
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #11
Appropriation: Legal and Advocacy Services
Allocation: Public Defender Agency
Description: Cut Governor's request for $810,000 for projected
caseload increase by approximately 20%
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #12
Appropriation: Violent Crimes Compensation Board
Allocation: Violent Crimes Compensation Board
Description: Add general fund grants to compensate for the
loss of PFD Fund and PFD Crim funding sources
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft objected to the adoption of Items #10 and #12.
He emphasized the importance of the Wellness Court and the
significant progress made to the program over the past five years.
The Violent Crimes Compensation Board is also vital and would not
receive $152,000 under the motion.
Co-Chair Green reminded that the motions would appropriate the
amounts requested by the Governor. The House amounts would increase
funding. The Administration has indicated the programs could be
operated within the existing budget.
Representative Croft countered that the loss of Permanent Fund
Dividends funds would reduce overall funding to the Violent Crimes
Compensation Board. The House version would restore the loss of
funds utilizing general funds.
Representative Harris moved to accept Item #11 and leave Items #10
and #12 open.
There was no objection and Item #11 was ADOPTED.
Item: #13
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades, and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $62,300 general funds
1,100 Fed Rcpts
31,300 Other funds
Note: $200 of general funds appropriated for salary
adjustments in DMV [Division of Motor Vehicles] is a technical
error. Source should be RSS [Receipt Supported Services].
Acceptance of correction implied.
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
DAVID TEAL, Director, Division of Legislative Finance, explained
the technical error to the funding sources. The Office of
Management and Budget submitted allocation recommendations that
would have exceeded the amount of funds available in some funding
sources.
Co-Chair Green noted this was based on information received by the
Senate after the House of Representatives had considered the
budget.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #14
Appropriation: Leases
Allocation: Leases
Description: Conditional Language
Version: House
Language: The money appropriated by this appropriation may be
distributed to state departments and agencies to pay the cost
of leasing space occupied by the department or agency.
Note: See items #7 and #15
Item: #15
Appropriation: Leases
Allocation: Leases
Description: Intent
Version: House
Language: It is the intent of the legislature that the
department transfer funding for all leases to occupying
agencies during FY 05.
Note: See items #7 and #14
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
The Department of Administration budget was therefore closed with
the exception of Items #10 and #12.
Department of Environmental Conservation
Item: #1
Appropriation: Administration
Allocation: Office of the Commissioner
Description: Restore decrement for additional travel savings
Version: House
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #2
Appropriation: Administration
Allocation: Information and Administrative Services
Description: Restore Homeland Security Position
Version: Senate
Amount: $80,500 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #3
Appropriation: Administration
Allocation: Information and Administrative Services
Description: Restore decrement for travel
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #4
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Environmental Health Director
Description: Restore decrement for travel
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #5
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Laboratory Services
Description: Restore decrement for additional travel savings
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #6
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Drinking Water
Description: Begin phase-out of Drinking Water Class C Program
Version: House
Amount: -$45,900 general funds
Item: #7
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Solid Waste Management
Description: Begin phase-out of Solid Waste Class 3 Program
Version: House
Amount: -$75,000 general funds
Item: #8
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Air Director
Description: Restore decrement for travel
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #9
Appropriation: Environmental Health
Allocation: Air Quality
Description: Restore decrement for additional travel savings
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #11
Appropriation: Water
Allocation: Facility Construction
Description: Restore decrement for additional travel savings
Version: House
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #10
Appropriation: Water
Allocation: Water Quality
Description: Cut Governor's "Raindrops to Oceans" increment
Version: Senate
Amount: -$50,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Williams stated support for this action.
Representative Croft asked if this motion would restore funding to
the program.
Co-Chair Green replied the funding would be restored.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #12
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Version: Senate
Amount: $3,500 general funds
1,400 Fed Rcpts
2,800 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green informed that this reflects information received in
by the Senate after the House of Representatives had passed the
appropriation legislation.
Without objection the item was ADOPTED.
All conference items for the Department of Environmental
Conservation were CLOSED.
Department of Fish and Game
Item: #1
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Southeast Region Fisheries Management
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #2
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Southeast Region Fisheries Management
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $167,900 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #3
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Southeast Region Fisheries Management
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF [Commercial
Fisheries Revolving Loan Fund]
Version: Senate
Amount: -$149,600 general funds
$149,600 Cm Fish Ln
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #4
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Southeast Region Fisheries
Description: Decrement Test Fish Receipts
Version: House
Amount: -$102,800 Test Fish
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #5
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Central Region Fisheries Management
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #6
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Central Region Fisheries Management
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $206,100 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #7
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Central Region Fisheries Management
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF
Version: Senate
Amount: -$191,900 general funds
$191,900 Cm Fish Ln
Representative Harris moved for adoption and these items were
ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #8
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Central Region Fisheries Management
Description: Decrement Test Fish Receipts
Version: House
Amount: -$71,300 Test Fish
Representative Harris moved for adoption and this item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #9
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: AYK Region Fisheries Management
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #10
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: AYK Region Fisheries Management
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $140,000 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #11
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: AYK Region Fisheries Management
Description: Add CFRLF from DEC & DCED ($184,400 & $196,800) &
I/A [inter-agency receipts] funding from Sport Fish
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #12
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: AYK Region Fisheries Management
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF
Version: Senate
Amount: -$144,500 general fund
$144,500 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #13
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: AYK Region Fisheries Management
Description: Add general funds to purchase and operate SONAR
in the Porcupine River
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #14
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Westward Region Fisheries Management
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #15
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Westward Region Fisheries Management
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $223,800 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #16
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Westward Region Fisheries Management
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF
Version: Senate
Amount: -$189,000 general funds
$189,000 Cm Fish Ln
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #17
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Westward Region Fisheries Management
Description: Decrement Test Fish Receipts
Version: House
Amount: -$173,000 Test Fish
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft noted this is the third decrement of Test Fish
receipts and asked how the decrements differ.
Mr. Teal explained that Test Fish receipts are funds generated from
the contracting of commercial fishers to provide samples and other
survey information.
Representative Croft asked why three decrements are necessary,
rather than one decrement to make the reduction.
Co-Chair Green explained the accounting separations for each
regional office.
Mr. Teal affirmed.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #18
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Headquarters Fisheries Management
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #19
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Headquarters Fisheries Management
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $81,100 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #20
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Headquarters Fisheries Management
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF
Version: Senate
Amount: -$73,600 general funds
$73,600 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #21
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Headquarters Fisheries Management
Description: Fund change to free up RSS to fully fund the PERS
increase in the Commercial Fish Entry Commission appropriation
Version: Senate
Amount: -$120,000 Cm Fish Ln
$120,000 Rcpt Services
Item: #22
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Fisheries Development
Description: Deny Governor's general fund decrement and PCNs
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #23
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Fisheries Development
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $96,500 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #24
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Fisheries Development
Description: Replace general funds with CFRLF
Version: Senate
Amount: -$81,900 general funds
$81,900 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #25
Appropriation: Sport Fisheries
Allocation: Sport Fisheries
Description: Increase F&G funding to correspond with an
increase in I/A in Commercial Fisheries/AYK Region Fisheries
Management
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #26
Appropriation: Sport Fisheries
Allocation: Sport Fisheries Habitat
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $5,900 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #27
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Commissioner's Office
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $18,000 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #28
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Administrative Services
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $45,500 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #29
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Boards of Fisheries and Game
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $21,000 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #30
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Advisory Committees
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $10,700 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #31
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: State Subsistence
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $9,300 Cm Fish Ln
Item: #32
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: EVOS [Exxon Valdez Oil Spill] Trustee Council
Description: Fund the Gulf Ecosystem Monitoring Program
($742,100) & increase FY 05 Fed Auth by $148,300
Version: Senate
Amount: $890,400 general funds
Item: #33
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Allocation: Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Description: Fully fund PERS increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $120,000 Rcpt Svcs
Item: #34
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Version: Senate
Amount: $3,900 general funds
4,000 Fed Rcpts
23,000 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and these items were
ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #35
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries
Allocation: Headquarters Fisheries Management
Description: Conditional Language
Version: Senate
Language: The amount allocated for Headquarters Fisheries
Management includes the unexpended and unobligated balance on
June 30, 2004, of the Department of Fish and Game, Commercial
Fisheries Entry Commission, program receipts from licenses,
permits and other fees.
Item: #36
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Fish and Game State Facilities Rent
Description: Conditional Language
Version: Senate
Language: The amount allocated for Fish and Game State
Facilities Rent includes the unexpended and unobligated
balance on June 30, 2004, of the Department of Fish and Game,
Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission, program receipts from
licenses, permits and other fees.
Item: #37
Appropriation: Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Allocation: Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Description: Conditional Language
Version: Senate
Language: The amount allocated for Fish and Game State
Facilities Rent includes the unexpended and unobligated
balance on June 30, 2004, of the Department of Fish and Game,
Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission, program receipts from
licenses, permits and other fees.
Item: #38
Appropriation: Sport Fisheries
Allocation: Assert/Protect State's Rights
Description: Structure Change
Version: Senate
Note: Senate moved Assert/Protect State's Rights allocation to
Sport Fisheries Appropriation
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
All conference items for the Department of Fish and Game were
CLOSED.
Senator Hoffman commented that the Conference Committee "did a
fairly decent job on Fish and Game."
Department of Law
Item: #1
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: First Judicial District
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #2
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: First Judicial District
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $12,000
Amount: -$12,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #3
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Second Judicial District
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #4
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Second Judicial District
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $8,900
Amount: -$8,800 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #5
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Anchorage
Description: Deny Victims for Justice increment request
Version: House
Amount: -$125,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft objected and noted this is another instance of
reducing funding for victims of violent crimes. The amount of
funding involved is insignificant, but would be leveraged "for a
huge impact on the lives of victims". The Court Watch program
ensures that the judicial system adequately recognizes the
constitutional rights of victims. The Conference Committee should
not be "singling out victims".
Co-Chair Green countered that no one is singling out victims. The
Senate approved appropriations in the amounts requested by the
Governor. The Departments have attested these programs could be
"fully operated to the extent necessary".
Representative Harris clarified that adoption of the House of
Representatives allocation, as proposed in the motion, would reduce
the amount requested by the Governor by $25,000.
Additional clarification ensued.
Co-Chair Green indicated she did not object to the adoption of the
House appropriation amount.
The motion to adopt Item #5 was withdrawn and the item was LEFT
OPEN.
Item: #6
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Anchorage
Description: Deny 3 new Prosecutors - Violent Crimes, Special
Assault, Property Crimes Units
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #7
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Anchorage
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were
ADOPTED.
Co-Chair Green commented this is a significant amount of funding to
the Department to "shore up" the budget and improve programs. She
was convinced that the Department could address the functions of
all the auxiliary programs within the "confines of their budget"
through the adoption of this item.
Representative Harris furthered that the House of Representatives
had denied $383,600 to Item #6 and $37,600 to Item #7.
Item: #8
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Anchorage
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $11,000
Amount: -$11,100 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #9
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Anchorage
Description: AMD: Juvenile Delinquency positions and funding
from Human Services to Criminal Division (3rd Jud: Anc and 4th
Jud)
Version: Senate
Amount: $236,000 general funds
Note: If 9=S, then 38=S
Item: #10
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Outside Anchorage
Description: Deny 1 new Kenai Prosecutor
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #11
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Outside Anchorage
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption
Representative Harris relayed that the Attorney General "was
strong-arming me for a long period of time."
The items were ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #12
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Third Judicial District: Outside Anchorage
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $14,500
Amount: -$14,600 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #13
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Fourth Judicial District
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #14
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Fourth Judicial District
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $28,600
Amount: -$28,700 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #15
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Fourth Judicial District
Description: AMD: Juvenile Delinquency positions and funding
from Human Services to Criminal Division (3rd Jud: Anc and 4th
Jud)
Version: Senate
Amount: $150,400 general funds
Item: #16
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Criminal Justice Litigation
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Representative Croft asked the Division of Legislative Finance the
cumulative impact of the restored funding to the Department of Law.
Mr. Teal directed attention to the top row of the Department of Law
motion spreadsheet [copy on file], listing the total funding change
to the Governor's budget request of all items. He listed the net
reduction as $28,700. He qualified this figure represents the
amounts agreed upon by the House and Senate, but did not include
the travel expense reductions. He was unable to state the total
increase to the Department. The amount would be nearer to the
amount requested by the Governor.
Representative Croft commented to the appearance of a restoration
of significant funding, yet the total is a reduction.
Co-Chair Green informed that time would be allowed to review the
net funding changes.
Without objection the items were ADOPTED.
Item: #17
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Criminal Justice Litigation
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $12,600
Amount: -$12,600 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #18
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Criminal Appeals/Special Litigation Component
Description: Deny 1 Misdemeanor Appeals Attorney, 1 Post
Conviction Relief Attorney
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #19
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Criminal Appeals/Special Litigation Component
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #20
Appropriation: Criminal Division
Allocation: Criminal Appeals/Special Litigation Component
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $10,500
Amount: -$10,400 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #21
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Deputy Attorney General's Office
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #22
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Deputy Attorney General's Office
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $3,500
Amount: -$3,500 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #23
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Deputy Attorney General's Office
Description: Delete portion of personal services funding
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #24
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Collections and Support
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #25
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Collections and Support
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #26
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Collections and Support
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $3,000
Amount: -$2,900 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #27
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Commercial and Fair Business
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #28
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Commercial and Fair Business
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #29
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Commercial and Fair Business
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $4,300
Amount: -$4,200 general fund
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #30
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Environmental Law
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #31
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Environmental Law
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #30
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Environmental Law
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $5,500
Amount: -$5,500 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #33
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: Allow 1 new CINA paralegal in Fairbanks and deny
other costs added into original increment request
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #34
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: Deny 1 new Juvenile Delinquency Attorney
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #35
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #36
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption
Representative Croft objected and asked if the intent of Item #34
is to hire another attorney position.
Co-Chair Green affirmed, and listed these components would fund a
new paralegal position located in Fairbanks, a new Juvenile
Delinquency Attorney and to restore funding for retirement and
other personal services rates. This would reduce funding for the
Department's reorganization process.
Representative Croft commented to the number of new attorney
positions added. He requested a list of the number of new attorneys
would be hired as a result of Conference Committee action.
Co-Chair Green estimated that funding for a total of 20 attorneys
and six personal positions were included in the Governor's original
budget request.
KATHRYN DAUGHHETEE, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Law, testified that the Department requested 16 new
attorney positions for both the Criminal and Civil divisions.
Representative Croft asked for clarification that funding for all
16 positions was "conferencable".
Ms. Daughhetee replied that the proposed Conference Committee
actions would restore funding for the positions; however, the
potential of an unallocated reduction could impact the ability to
fully fund all the requests included in the Governor's proposed
budget. The reduction in funding for travel could be a factor.
Representative Harris suggested he could offer a motion to adopt
the House of Representatives allocation for these items, which
would eliminate the funding approved by the Senate.
Representative Croft questioned the cumulative impact of the
addition of 16 attorney positions represents a "fairly dramatic
reversal", although the increments are small.
Representative Harris understood that most of the new attorney
positions are to address children's issues.
The items were ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #37
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $6,500
Amount: -$6,500 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #38
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: AMD: Juvenile Delinquency positions and funding
from Human Services to Criminal Division (3rd Jud: Anc and 4th
Jud)
Version: Senate
Amount: -$236,000 general funds
Note: If 38=S, then 9=S
Item: #39
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Human Services Section
Description: AMD: Juvenile Delinquency positions and funding
from Human Services to Criminal Division (3rd Jud: Anc and 4th
Jud)
Version: Senate
Amount: -$150,400 general funds
Note: If 39=S, then 15=S
Item: #40
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Labor and State Affairs
Description: Deny 2 new Labor and State Affairs Attorneys
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #41
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Labor and State Affairs
Description: Allow 80% general funds requested for changes to
retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #42
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Labor and State Affairs
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #43
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Labor and State Affairs
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $1,900
Amount: -$1,800 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #44
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Natural Resources
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #45
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Natural Resources
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $2,800
Amount: -$2,800 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #46
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Oil, Gas and Mining
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #47
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Oil, Gas and Mining
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #48
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Oil, Gas and Mining
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $11,300
Amount: -$11,300 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #49
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Opinions, Appeals and Ethics
Description: Deny 1 new attorney - Indian Law
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #50
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Opinions, Appeals and Ethics
Description: Deny 1 new attorney - Human Services Appeals
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Senator Hoffman asked the intent of the new attorney for Indian
Law.
Representative Harris deferred to the Department of Law.
Representative Croft had the same question for the proposed human
services appeals attorney position in Item #50.
Ms. Daughhetee replied that some functions within the Opinions,
Appeals and Ethics Section of the Department are related to Indian
law and other functions are related to the State Ethics Act. Issues
involving ethics surface regularly; agencies require advice in
complying with the Act. Additional attorneys are necessary to
address both functions.
Senator Hoffman asked which area of the State the additional
attorney would serve.
Ms. Daughhetee stressed the matter is not a regional issue
whatsoever.
Representative Croft asked what duties the Human Services Appeal
attorney position would assume.
Ms. Daughhetee replied this attorney would handle, on a statewide
basis, "child in need of aid" (CINA) cases raised to the appellate
level through the Human Services Section. The appellate process for
CINA cases is significantly different than the regular workload and
an attorney with appellate experience better handles those cases
that are appealed.
Representative Croft questioned the $135,600 cost of hiring an
attorney for Human Services appeals, compared to the cost of
$112,000 to hire an attorney for Indian Law.
Ms. Daughhetee explained that the different funding requests
reflect the staggered hire dates anticipated. Some positions would
be filled October first, and others July first.
Representative Croft objected to the adoption of Items #49 and #50.
Senator Hoffman requested that Item #49 be left open for further
consideration.
Representative Harris moved to leave open Item #49 and Item #50,
and the items were LEFT OPEN without objection.
Item: #51
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Opinions, Appeals and Ethics
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $3,100
Amount: -$3,200 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #52
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Statehood Defense
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for change
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #53
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Statehood Defense
Description: Reduce general fund amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #54
Appropriation: Civil Division
Allocation: Statehood Defense
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $1,100
Amount: -$1,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #55
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Office of the Attorney General
Description: Remove funding for Associate Attorney II/Press
Secretary
Version: House
Amount: -$61,700 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft objected for an explanation. He asked if the
proposal would add or remove the requested press secretary
position.
Representative Harris replied the requested position would be
removed.
Representative Croft removed his objection.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #56
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Office of the Attorney General
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #57
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Office of the Attorney General
Description: Reduce general funds amount used for section head
reorganization
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #58
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Office of the Attorney General
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $3,000
Amount: -$2,900 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #59
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Administrative Services
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #60
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Administrative Services
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $1,000
Amount: -$1,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #61
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Legislation/Regulations
Description: Deny 1 new Legislation and Regulations Attorney
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #62
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Legislation/Regulations
Description: Allow 80% of general funds requested for changes
to retirement and other personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft objected and asked for an explanation of the
need for the requested new position.
Ms. Daughhetee responded this new position would assist the
Department with the high volume of the Section. Currently only one
attorney undertakes all the duties. The volume is too much for
Deborah Behr, the existing attorney.
Representative Croft asked for clarification that this position
handles the legislation drafted by legislators.
Ms. Daughhetee corrected that this position drafts legislation
proposed by the administration. This attorney also reviews
legislation drafted by the legislature.
Representative Croft asked if a staggered hire dates for this
position are a factor in the differing funding amounts requested
for the new attorney positions.
Ms. Daughhetee affirmed the anticipated hire date is July 1.
Representative Croft pointed out that the legislature is not in
session in July, and suggested the Human Resources Attorney could
be hired in July and this position could be filled later in the
year.
Ms. Daughhetee relayed the Attorney General's opinion that this
position must be filled in July because only one attorney assumes
the entire workload for this section. Other sections have several
staff and the addition of three new staff at once would be
difficult to accomplish.
Representative Croft maintained his objection.
Senator Hoffman asked for clarification that currently one attorney
position exists in the Legislation/Regulations Section.
Ms. Daughhetee corrected that Deborah Behr is the lead attorney and
that one other attorney position is in the Section.
Senator Hoffman clarified that two attorneys currently operate in
the Section and that the Department anticipates a caseload increase
of one-third.
Ms. Daughhetee affirmed.
Co-Chair Green noted that pending legislation would require
overview of several "major components" because the regulations are
outdated. This is very time consuming. Other legislation would be
primarily regulatory overview and would implement new systems. In
discussion with the Department, she learned that the likelihood
that all 16 new attorney positions would be filled by a certain
date is uncertain. Rather the intent is to hire 16 new attorneys
within the next year. She was "delighted" that the Department as
well as the Alaska State Troopers are making efforts to "get a
handle on some of the issues." She therefore did not question this
funding request.
Representative Croft asked if the Chair intended to hold the item
open for further consideration.
Co-Chair Green answered, "no".
Representative Croft commented that the 16 new positions would add
approximately $1.5 million to the budget. This particular item
would cost $150,000 and would not be for prosecution activities,
but rather to increase services for the legislature. Providing this
funding for the Victims for Justice program would save money. He
was unsure why the Department prioritized the needs in this manner,
but suggested the needs should be prioritized differently.
A roll call was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Representative Williams, Senator Wilken, Representative
Harris, Chair Green
OPPOSED: Representative Croft, Senator Hoffman
The motion PASSED (4-2)
The items were ADOPTED.
CC-04 # 2, Side B 7:56 AM
Item: #63
Appropriation: Administration and Support
Allocation: Legislation/Regulations
Description: Reduce travel by 25%
Version: House plus $1,400
Amount: -$1,400 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #64
Appropriation: Agency-wide Unallocated Reduction
Allocation: Agency-wide Unallocated Reduction
Description: Agency-wide unallocated reduction
Version: Senate
Amount: -$100,000 general funds
Item: #65
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $79,000 general funds
300 Fed Rcpts
43,400 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
This closed all conference items for the Department of Law except
Items #5, #49 and #50.
Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Item: #1
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefits adjustment for employees of
Labor, Trades Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for Correctional
Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-covered Executive,
Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $12,300 general funds
14,900 Fed Rcpts
6,300 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
All conference items for the Department of Military and Veterans
Affairs were CLOSED.
Department of Natural Resources
Item: #1
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Commissioner's Office
Description: Deny funding for Deputy Commissioner Position
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #2
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Administrative Services
Description: Reduce Administrative Services approx 10%
Version: House
Amount: -$56,000 general funds
Item: #3
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Information Resource Management
Description: Reduce Information Resource Management approx 10%
Version: House
Amount: -$80,000 general funds
Item: #4
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Oil & Gas Development
Description: Advance the State's oil and gas initiatives
Version: House
Amount: -$566,800 general funds
$566,800 Pfund Rcpt
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #5
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Alaska Coastal Management Program
Description: Deny initiative for coordination and expedited
permit reviews for resource development projects
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #6
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Large Project Permitting
Description: Switch funding support for Large Project
Permitting (general funds to LDIF)
Version: House
Amount: -$102,300 general funds
$102,300 State Land funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #7
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Office of Habitat Management and Permitting
Description: AMD Replace unrealized I/A receipts and SDPR
Authorization to fulfill workload requirements
Version: Senate
Amount: $637,800 general funds
-445,800 I/A Rcpts
-192,000 Stat Desig
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Senator Hoffman asked for an explanation.
Mr. Teal reminded that the habitat functions were transferred from
the Department of Fish and Game to the Department of Natural
Resources, and that a number of funding sources could be
reallocated within the Department of Fish and Game, but would be
"troublesome" to reallocate to a different agency. Fish and Game
funds and other funding sources are limited to fish and game
activities. Therefore, the Department of Natural Resources did not
"inherit" all the funding necessary to perform the duties of the
habitat functions. This item would replace the funding that did not
transfer with the functions.
Senator Hoffman understood that if the Division of Habitat had
remained within the Department of Fish and Game, this extra expense
would not be incurred.
Mr. Teal affirmed.
Senator Hoffman furthered that the transfer from the Department of
Fish and Game to the Department of Natural Resources would cost the
State $640,000 in FY 05.
Co-Chair Green commented that the funding reallocated within the
Department of Fish and Game serves a purpose.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #8
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Claims, Permits & Leases
Description: Reduce claims, permits and leases approx 10%
Version: House
Amount: -$271,000 general funds
271,000 Pfund Rcpt
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft objected. Asked for clarification of the use
of permanent fund receipts for this item and Item #4.
Mr. Teal explained that the funding source would more properly be
classified as permanent fund revenue, the receipts from the
earnings of the Fund. The funds would be allocated to these items
before the dividends are calculated.
Representative Croft asked if the funds are the earnings reserve
account or the corporate account.
Mr. Teal replied these are the same monies used to fund the
operations of the Permanent Fund Corporation.
Representative Croft understood the funds are taken from the
earnings of the Fund, "but sort of one removed".
Mr. Teal affirmed the funds are removed from the revenue account
before net income of the Fund is computed for the purposes of
determining dividend amounts.
Representative Croft asked the rationale for appropriating $270,000
for this purpose.
Representative Harris responded that the legislature appropriated
25 percent of the royalties from oil development. The Claims,
Permits and Leases, and the Oil and Gas Development allocations are
intended to increase oil development.
Representative Croft totaled the Permanent Fund Receipts
appropriation to Items #4 and #8 at between $830,000 and $850,000.
Mr. Teal affirmed.
Representative Croft remarked he should have objected to the
adoption of Item #4. The functions are more appropriately funded
with general funds.
Representative Harris informed that funds have been appropriated
from the Permanent Fund Receipts account for this purpose for
"years".
Co-Chair Green furthered this would be a continuation of previous
funding methods for the "expansion, attention to, and hopeful
increase of monies deposited into the Permanent Fund". It has been
determined that this is an appropriate use of the funds.
Representative Croft commented that with concern, he witnessed this
process start and then expand, and that it should "at least slow
down or stop". He recalled the initial arguments supporting the
process of utilizing Permanent Fund revenues for oil and gas
development activities, but disagreed it should be continued.
Co-Chair Green charged that Representative Croft's position is
contrary to previous discussions he has had with regard to the
continued expansion and attention paid to resource development.
Senator Hoffman asked Mr. Teal if Claims, Permits and Leases was
funded with Permanent Fund revenues in the FY 04 budget.
Mr. Teal responded that the allocations of both Item #4 and Item #8
utilized Permanent Fund receipts; however, these motions would
increase the amount. He would advise as the total amount of
Permanent Fund receipts appropriated to the Department of Natural
Resources in FY 04.
Co-Chair Green ordered Item #8 HELD OPEN. She understood the
allowable allocation of Permanent Fund revenues is 25 percent of
the effort.
Item: #9
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Title Acquisition & Defense
Description: Reduce Title Acquisition and Defense approx 10%
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #10
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Water Development
Description: Switch funding support for Water Development
(General funds to RSS)
Version: House
Amount: -$300,000 general funds
300,000 Rcpt Svcs
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #11
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Geological Development
Description: Reduce Geological Development by approx 10%
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #12
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Agricultural Development
Description: Delete funding for virus free seed potato project
Version: House plus $50,000
Amount: -$70,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #13
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Agricultural Development
Description: Fund change to general funds for operations
Version: House
Amount: $619,600 general funds
-619,600 Agric RLF
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft asked if this is a funding change to the
Agricultural Revolving Loan Fund.
Representative Harris clarified the funds would be changed from the
loan fund and replace with general funds. This is an attempt to
avoid depleting the revolving fund and allow it to stabilize.
Representative Croft supported the change.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #14
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Agricultural Development
Description: Increase personal services authorization for the
Organic program
Version: Senate
Amount: $60,000 Agric RLF
Item: #15
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Agricultural Development
Description: Increase activities for Alaska Grown marketing
Version: Senate
Amount: $150,000 Agric RLF
Item: #16
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Agricultural Revolving Loan Program Administration
Description: Spend ARLF on Mt. McKinley Meat Plant
Version: Senate
Amount: $1,500,000 Agric RLF
Note: Senate position includes correction of technical error;
moves appropriation from agricultural development allocation
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft clarified that the funding source change of
Item #13 "returned" funds to the Agricultural Revolving Loan Fund
and these three items would appropriate additional funds.
Representative Harris replied that the funds allocated in Item #16
would return to the revolving loan fund through receipts from the
operations of the Plant.
Co-Chair Green informed that the McKinley Meat Plant had been
overseen by the Department of Corrections for approximately six
year. Within the past seven months, the function has been returned
to the Department of Natural Resources, Division of Agriculture.
This transfer did not include a provision to allow the Division to
make transactions of the sales of products and purchase of
products. This item would allow for this. This is a technical
transaction.
Representative Croft clarified the funds would be withdrawn from
the revolving loan fund for operation costs, then restored to the
fund through income generated by the Plant.
Co-Chair Green affirmed.
Representative Croft did not object to the adoption of this item.
Representative Harris informed that this item is the request of the
director of the Division of Agriculture.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #17
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Development - Special Projects
Description: AMD: Scientific Assessments for resource
development
Version: House
Amount: $0
Item: #18
Appropriation: Fire Suppression
Allocation: Fire Suppression Preparedness
Description: Deny funding to restore Heavy Air Tanker contract
Version: House
Amount: -$250,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Wilken objected and asked for an explanation of scientific
assessments for resource development in Item #17.
NICO BUS, Administrative Services Manager, Division of Support
Services, Department of Natural Resources, testified the $150,000
would be utilized for studies on the North Slope for the
development of a natural gas pipeline, the National Petroleum
Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A), and other subjects.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if this allocation is in addition to the $10
million appropriated in the FY 04 supplemental budget.
Mr. Bus answered this is a separate item.
Representative Harris suggested the two appropriations could be
combined.
Mr. Bus replied that the other project would be reduced if the
projects were combined.
Representative Harris asked what the assessments would study.
Mr. Bus responded the projects would study the impacts of a natural
gas pipeline would have on wildlife.
Representative Harris asserted such studies have been undertaken
for the past 20 years.
Mr. Bus continued the projects are in coordination with the North
Slope Borough with the intent to support development activities and
address the federal Endangered Species Act, caribou crossings and
timber issues. He had additional information available.
AT EASE 8:09 AM / 8:10 AM
Co-Chair Wilken requested no action be taken on Item #17 at this
time to allow for further review.
There was no objection and the item was LEFT OPEN.
Representative Croft asked if the result of Item #18, as proposed,
would restore or eliminate funding for the project.
Representative Harris responded the House of Representatives
version would provide the amount requested by the Governor. The
Senate version would have provided an additional $250,000.
Item #18 was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #19
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $13,600 general funds
4,300 Fed Rcpts
27,100 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green reiterated this reflects information that was not
available until after the House of Representatives approved a
budget.
Item: #8 (continued)
Appropriation: Resource Development
Allocation: Claims, Permits & Leases
Description: Reduce Claims, Permits, and Leases approx 10%
Version: House
Amount: -$271,000 general funds
271,000 Pfund Rcpt
[Note: This item was considered earlier in the meeting and held
open.]
Mr. Teal answered the earlier query, explaining that the Department
of Natural Resources utilized $2.8 million Permanent Fund corporate
receipts in FY 04. Both Items #4 and #8 utilized these receipts,
and the items would incur an increase of $837,000 for FY 05.
Senator Hoffman asked the amount expended in FY 04 the amount
anticipated would be expended in FY 05.
Mr. Teal responded that in FY 04, $54.7 million of Permanent Fund
Corporate receipts were expended. This includes approximately $50
million for Permanent Fund operations. Items #4 and #8 would
increase the amount by $837,000.
Co-Chair Green remarked upon the increased effort in developing oil
and gas resources this year, which most legislators have been
supported of.
Representative Croft asked the consequences of adopting the Senate
version in funding these items. He did not want to hamper the
efforts of the natural gas pipeline project.
Mr. Teal replied the Senate version would provide the same amount
of funding utilizing general funds rather than Permanent Fund
receipts.
Representative Croft commented on the "creep" of the use of the
Permanent Fund earnings. Most Alaskans are unaware this occurs.
"This is an addiction we need to wean ourselves of, or at least
slow down on."
Representative Harris asked if Representative Croft recommended
that all the earnings of the Fund should be utilized for dividends
and cease allocating the constitutionally allowed 25 percent
allotted to fund development activities.
Representative Croft offered to hold debate on the subject.
Representative Harris declined but asserted that some of the
Permanent Fund earnings should be used to increase development of
oil and gas.
Representative Croft agreed but countered that the earnings of the
Permanent Fund should not be used for government functions without
"that political decision being made".
Co-Chair Green asserted that a thorough debate on the
appropriateness of utilizing Permanent Fund receipts for "a very
discreet function" has occurred in the committee process. The use
of these funds as "served us very well." Utilizing these funds to
increase the amounts contributed directly to the Permanent Fund
should be undertaken. She announced that debate on whether the use
of these funds for development activities would not continue. All
efforts should be made to balance the budget "with an array" of
funding sources, and this use of funds conveys the legislature's
intent to expand development.
Senator Hoffman asked if a specific function could be identified in
which the increased Permanent Fund receipts allocation would be
used.
Mr. Teal deferred to Mr. Bus.
Senator Hoffman repeated his question asking what functions the
increment would be used to fund, and whether the use of the funds
and the functions would be clear to the public.
Mr. Bus replied that the Permanent Fund receipts would be utilized
to fund "all the activities that generate the revenue", although
not a specific position or increment. The efforts of existing staff
positions generate receipts, 25 percent of which is deposited into
the Permanent Fund. To fund those staff positions, a portion of the
earnings of the Permanent Fund are allocated to the Department to
pay administrative costs.
Representative Croft expressed concern that the process of
allocating Fund receipts began with the funding of the Permanent
Fund Corporation, a decision he supported, and expanded to fund the
dividend program, which he partially supported. However, the
receipts are now used to fund general "obligations" of the
Department of Natural Resources, which he questioned.
A roll call was taken on the motion to adopt Item #8.
IN FAVOR: Representative Williams, Senator Wilken, Representative
Harris, Chair Green
OPPOSED: Representative Croft, Senator Hoffman
The motion PASSED (2-4)
The item was ADOPTED.
All conference items for the Department of Natural Resources except
Item #17 were closed.
Department of Revenue
Item: #1
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $3,500 general funds
86,900 Fed Rcpts
101,000 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #2
Appropriation: Permanent Fund Corporation
Description: Conditional Language
Co-Chair Green announced this item would be HELD OPEN.
Item #1 for the Department of Revenue was CLOSED.
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
Item: #1
Appropriation: Appropriation
Allocation: Allocation
Description: Appropriation Structure
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Note: House - 3 Appropriations: Highways, Aviation &
Facilities; International Airports; Marine Highway System
Senate - 5 Appropriations: Administration & Support; Design,
Engineering & Construction; Highways, Aviation & Facilities;
International Airports; Marine Highway System
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Representative Croft requested clarification.
Co-Chair Green explained this relates to the structure of the
budget and the motion is to adopt the Senate version, which
contains five appropriations, rather than the three proposed in the
House version.
Representative Croft asked the rationale for five appropriations
instead of three.
Co-Chair Green replied this would categorize appropriations by
functions, as well as three main categories. The Department stated
this method would be simpler to manage for its purposes.
Representative Croft clarified this is a recommendation of the
Department.
Co-Chair Green affirmed and detailed.
Representative Croft removed his objection.
The item was ADOPTED without objection.
Item: #2
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts (Local 71); PSEA for Correctional
Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-covered Executive,
Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $196,500 general funds
11,400 Fed Rcpts
479,200 Other funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green reiterated this reflects information received when
the Senate considered the operating budget.
Without objection the item was ADOPTED.
All conference items for the Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities were CLOSED.
Alaska Court System
Item: #1
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Appellate Courts
Description: Deny increase for JRS, PERS, and Benefit rate
increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #2
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Deny increase for JRS, PERS, and Benefit rate
increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #3
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Delete costs for 1 judgeship due to sunset
provision at the end of FY 04 (judge, secretary, 3 clerks)
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #4
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Court Coordinated Resources Project
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #5
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Restore first 2 months of FY 05 for 1 judgeship
(judge, secretary, 3 clerks)
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #6
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Allow increased lease expense for Unalaska
Version: House
Amount: $100,000 general funds
Item: #7
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Allow Fairbanks Courthouse 5th floor operations
Version: House
Amount: $65,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #8
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: Court Coordinated Resources Project
Version: Senate
Amount: $148,500 GF/MH
122,100 MHTAAR
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #9
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Trial Courts
Description: To address anticipated caseload
Version: Senate minus $200,000
Amount: $1,000,000 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #10
Appropriation: Alaska Court System
Allocation: Administration and Support
Description: Deny increase for JRS, PERS, and Benefit rate
increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #11
Appropriation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Allocation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Description: Deny increase for changes to retirement and other
personal services rates
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #12
Appropriation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Allocation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Description: Allow office space rent increase
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Item: #13
Appropriation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Allocation: Commission on Judicial Conduct
Description: Allow vacancy rate funding for 2-person office
Version: Senate
Amount: $0
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the items were ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #14
Appropriation: Judicial Council
Allocation: Judicial Council
Description: Cost efficiency reduction of executive staff and
associated overall budget
Version: House
Amount: -$80,600 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED
without objection.
Item: #15
Appropriation: Agencywide
Description: Salary and benefit adjustments for employees of
Labor, Trades and Crafts Unit (Local 71); PSEA for
Correctional Officers Unit; PSEA for State Troopers; non-
covered Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches
Version: Senate
Amount: $315,700 general funds
Representative Harris moved for adoption and the item was ADOPTED.
All conference items of the Alaska Court System were CLOSED.
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Lyda Green adjourned the meeting at 08:24 AM
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