SJR 31 VOTER APPROVAL:AK STATEHOOD ACT AMENDMENT The next order of business was SJR 31. SENATOR GREEN moved to adopt the committee substitute. SENATOR ADAMS objected to the motion, and asked for an explanation of changes made in the committee substitute. SENATOR TAYLOR discussed the changes. On page 1, line 9, the original legislation provided that a law, enacted by the legislature, giving the approval of the state to an amendment to the statehood compact, would require the legislature to vote affirmatively on any change to the compact through a piece of legislation. That legislation would then go to the public for ratification at a general election. The committee substitute allows the public to vote on the issue itself, without being preempted by the Legislature. This would give the public the chance to voice its opinion before the legislature takes formal action. This legislation would only have effect upon the statehood compact and would not provide the legislature with an expanded opportunity to send referendums to the public. Number 165 SENATOR ADAMS asked if the proposed legislation would affect AS 01.01.011, regarding oil revenue distribution. SENATOR TAYLOR replied it would not. SENATOR ADAMS if the legislature could still pass legislation according to AS 01.10.011. SENATOR TAYLOR stated the legislature could, until this resolution was approved by a vote of the people. At that time, the Constitution would be amended and provide that future changes made to the statehood compact would require voter approval prior to legislative action. It does not impact the 1976 decision, but would impact future decisions. SENATOR ADAMS removed his objection to adoption of the Senate Judiciary committee substitute, therefore the motion carried. SENATOR GREEN moved CSSJR 31 (Jud) out of committee with individual recommendations. SENATOR ELLIS objected. A roll call vote was taken with Senators Adams and Ellis voting "nay," and Senators Taylor and Green voting "yea." The motion failed. SENATOR GREEN moved CSSJR 31 out of committee with individual recommendations. SENATOR ADAMS objected. A roll call vote was taken with Senators Adams and Ellis voting "nay," and Senators Taylor, Green and Miller voting "yea." CSSJR 31 moved from committee with individual recommendations. SENATOR ADAMS repeated his concern that the measure would not have the necessary votes to pass on the Senate floor.