SB 209-STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS; REGULATIONS  8:04:40 AM CHAIR SEATON announced that the first order of business would be SENATE BILL NO. 209, "An Act providing the Alaska State Council on the Arts the authority to adopt regulations relating to its statutory powers and duties; and providing for an effective date." 8:05:22 AM MICHAEL ROVITO, Staff, Senator Linda Menard, Alaska State Legislature, presented SB 209, noting that it was the companion bill to HB 311, which was heard and reported from the House Standing Committee on Education. He reminded the committee SB 209 would give the Alaska State Council on the Arts (AKSCA), Department of Education and Early Development (EDD), the authority to adopt regulations pertaining to its statutory powers and authorities. This legislation was proposed in response to a request by AKSCA and was recommended by the Department of Law. Mr. Rovito further explained that the bill was needed to help AKSCA write regulations to streamline its grant process. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and has a zero fiscal note attached. 8:06:36 AM REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON recalled that HB 311 provided a legal means for AKSCA to continue to fulfill its objectives. MR. ROVITO said correct. 8:06:59 AM REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER called attention to page 1, lines 7-8, which read [original punctuation provided]: (1) hold public and private hearings; (2) enter into contract, within the limit of funds available, with individuals, organizations, and institutions for services furthering the educational objectives of the council's programs; REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER asked for further information on the above referenced paragraphs. 8:07:26 AM MR. ROVITO said he was unable to provide further information. 8:07:54 AM CHAIR SEATON closed public testimony. 8:08:00 AM REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON moved to report SB 209, 26-LS1236\A, out of committee with individual recommendations and the accompanying fiscal notes. There being no objection, SB 209 was reported out of the House Education Standing Committee.