GENERAL SUBJECT(S): Teleconference: Statewide Teleconference on the FY01 Operating Budget The following overview was taken in log note format. Tapes and handouts will be on file with the House Finance Committee through the 21st Legislative Session, contact 465- 2156. After the 21st Legislative Session they will be available through the Legislative Library at 465-3808.   Time Meeting Convened: 9:05 a.m.   Tape(s): TAPE HFC 00 - 48, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 48, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 49, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 49, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 50, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 50, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 51, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 51, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 52, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 52, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 53, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 53, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 54, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 54, Side 2 TAPE HFC 00 - 55, Side 1 TAPE HFC 00 - 55, Side 2 PRESENT:   x Representative G. Davis  x Co-Chair Therriault x Representative Foster  x Co-Chair Mulder x Representative  Grussendorf  absent Vice Chair Bunde x Representative Moses  x Representative Austerman x Representative Phillips  Telecom x Representative J. Davies Representative Williams  ALSO PRESENT: REPRESENTATIVE SHARON CISSNA; REPRESENTATIVE BETH  KERTULLA;    1 Donna Collier, Regional Center for Alcohol and Other Addictions, Fairbanks 2 Corie Sheets, Regional Center for Alcohol and Other Addictions, Fairbanks 3 Travis Buck, Regional Center for Alcohol and Other Addictions, Fairbanks 4 Mark Martenson, Regional Center for Alcohol and Other Addictions, Fairbanks 5 Marjorie Overby, Fairbanks Native Association Women and Children, Fairbanks 6 Ramona Peters, Fairbanks Native Association Women and Children, Fairbanks 7 Karen Romero, Fairbanks Native Association Women and Children, Fairbanks 8 Vanessa Spencer, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 9 Marta Mueller, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 10 Patty Meritt, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 11 Kristian Swearingen, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 12 Jay Hardenbrook, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 13 Pat Race, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 14 Brenda Stanfill, Women In Crisis Counseling and Adoption, Fairbanks 15 Carol Smith, Women In Crisis Counseling and Adoption, Fairbanks 16 Nikita Chase, Women In Crisis Counseling and Adoption, Fairbanks 17 Kristie Wakefield-Ormson, Fairbanks 18 Michael Schmahl, Fairbanks 19 Aaron Suring, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 20 Julie Stern, Women In Crisis Counseling and Adoption, Fairbanks 21 Joe Hardenbrook, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 22 Bob Coghill, Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board, Fairbanks 23 Steve Larue, Fairbanks 24 Susan Taylor, Fairbanks 25 Carol Benson, Fairbanks 26 Solveig, Perdersen, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 27 Jaren Spor Peterlin, Fairbanks North Star Borough, Fairbanks 28 Susan Galereave, Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board, Fairbanks 29 Mike Fisher, Assistant Superintendent, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Fairbanks 30 Joe Ryman Scott, Fairbanks 31 Deborah Allman Reynolds, Fairbanks 32 Jeff Walters, Fairbanks 33 Lisa Love, Fairbanks 34 John Brown, President, Fairbanks Labor Council, Fairbanks 35 Dori Olsen, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Fairbanks 36 Joanne Olsen, Fairbanks 37 Bill Woodward, Alaska State Arts Council, Fairbanks 38 Peggy Ferguson, Alaska State Arts Council, Fairbanks 39 Diana Campbell, Fairbanks 40 Jake Poole, Fairbanks 41 Taber Rehbaum, Fairbanks 42 David Leone, Fairbanks 43 Pamela Younker, Fairbanks 44 Mary Vogel, Fairbanks 45 Jeanette Grasto, Fairbanks 46 Cheryl Keepers, Fairbanks 47 Patricia Ogino, Fairbanks 48 Shirley Demientieff, Fairbanks 49 Bill Bjork, Fairbanks 50 Steve Hamlin, KBRW Radio Station, Barrow 51 Tom Nicolos, KBRW Radio Station, Barrow 52 Leena Ongley, Barrow 53 Susan Rinker, NSB Counsel, Barrow 54 Connie Green, Valdez 55 Leonora Hotch, Emmonak 56 Christine Coupchiak, Togiak 57 Karen Swenson, Principal, Togiak 58 John Brower, Haines 59 Steve Long, Hanies 60 Dennis Miles, Haines 61 Elizabeth Red Fox, Emmonak 62 Martin Moore, Emmonak 63 Unknown speaker did not identify themself 64 Caroline Cremo Renner, Bethel 65 Nario Notti, Bethel 66 Chris Bragg, Yukon Kuskokwin Health Clinic, Bethel 67 Anges Phillips, Tundra's Women Coalition, Bethel 68 Mark Springer, Coordinator, DDC, Bethel 69 Graham Storey, President, Yukon Kuskokwin Association, Venetie 70 Dave Bouker, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Dillingham 71 Gina Hobson, Dillingham 72 Peggy Wood, Dillingham 73 Susan Kernes, Homer 74 Scot Wheat, Homer 75 Heather Reichenberg 76 Heather Arnett, Interim Director, Women in Crisis Resource Center, Kenai 77 Jerry Brookman, Kenai 78 Pam Nelson, Kenai 79 Beth LaCrosse, Ketchikan 80 Keith Smith, Arts and Humanities Council, Ketchikan 81 Victoria Lord, Ketchikan 82 Gary Stevens, Mayor, Kodiak Borough, Kodiak 83 Rick Leland, Executive Director, Council on Alcoholism, Kodiak 84 Edward May, News Director, KHNS, Haines 85 Scott Carey, Haines 86 Mitch Erickson, CCLC, Nome 87 Berda Wilson, Nome 88 Terry Wilson, Nome 89 Wayne Davenport, Board Member, KFCK, Wrangell 90 Greg Wood, Board Member, KFCK, Wrangell 91 Jeanne Tetangelo, Eagle 92 Elisabeth Sager, Eagle 93 Jan D. Parish, Eagle 94 Nancy Galastad, City Manager, Kotzebue 95 Mary Ann Wilson, Kotzebue 96 Beatrice Lisbourne, Kotzebue 97 Brad Reeve, Kotzebue 98 Lillian Monson, Kotzebue 99 Cristy Tilden, Board Member, Alcohol Drug Abuse, Dillingham 100 Ginger Baim, Bristol Bay Health Corporation, Dillingham 101 Laurentia Chamblee, Director, South Peninsula Women's Services, Homer 102 Gail Parsons, Homer 103 Ed Cooley, Homer 104 Lloyd Gathman, Executive Director, Community Health Program, Thorne Bay 105 Lonnie Walters, Director, Subsistence Abuse, Craig 106 Michael Quinn, Craig 107 Doug Veit, Director, Communities Organized for Health Options (COHO), Klawock 108 Susan Price, SAFE, Sitka 109 Janice Huls, Sitka 110 Kristen Griffin, Friends of Sheldon Jackson Museum, Sitka 111 Stan Filler, Mayor, Sitka 112 William Stortz, President of Board, KCAW, Sitka 113 Alice Johnstone, Board Member, KCAN, Sitka 114 Lisa Herwald, General Manager, Raven Radio, Sitka 115 Molly Kabler, Member, Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission, Sitka 116 Grace Brooks, Sitka 117 Jeffrey Pearson, Raven Radio Volunteer, Sitka 118 Robert Rice, Ketchikan 119 Bill Hardy, Program Manager, Ketchikan Drug Recovery Hospital, Ketchikan 120 Lisa Wax, Valdez 121 Matt Plumber, Valdez 122 Jerrie Clarke, Valdez 123 John Anderson, Valdez 124 Catherine Vaara, Executive Director, Advocates for Victims of Violence, Valdez 125 Annie Heinz Phillips, Valdez 126 Alice Neakok, Board Member, KBRW, Barrow 127 Corrine Erickson, Cordova 128 Faye Pahl, Cordova 129 Tom Church, City Council, Cordova 130 Ismet Kelty, Mayor, Unalaska 131 Jean Richards, Iliuliuk Mental Health Center, Unalaska 132 Kate Nixon, Unalaska Community Broadcasting, Unalaska 133 Tammy Pound, Unalaska 134 M. Lynn Crane Director, USAFN, Unalaska 135 Roger Leff, Manager, Public Broadcasting KIAL, Unalaska 136 Tom Abbott, Petersburg 137 Pat Hind, President, KFSK Radio, Petersburg 138 Kelly Demko, Teacher, Petersburg School District, Petersburg 139 Charlie Gibson, Board of Directors, South Peninsula Women's Services, Homer 140 Sheryl Vitale, Administrator, Childcare Program, Homer 141 Jean Steele, KBBI, Homer 142 Ken Landfield, President, KBBI Radio, Homer 143 David Anderson, KBBI, Homer 144 Clark Chambers, Journalist, Homer 145 Lynn Burkhardt, Homer 146 Lisa Greenleaf, Kenai 147 Syliva, Sullivan, Valdez 148 Bill Hatch, President, Board of Public Radio, Kenai 149 Zeda Friedersdorff, Kenai 150 Tim Peterson, President, Kenai School Association, Kenai 151 Andree McLead, Anchorage 152 William Theuer, Anchorage 153 Kirsten Schenker, Regional, Director, Heart Association, Anchorage 154 Natalie Gabriel, Anchorage 155 Megan Hall, Anchorage 156 Sherry Thompson, Anchorage 157 Linda Spencer, Anchorage 158 Graham Siebe, Achorage 159 Ahelisa Culpepper, Chair, Alaska Anchorage 160 Sam Rose, Anchorage 161 Phil Keith, Anchorage 162 Judith Miller, Anchorage 163 Steven Rouse, Made in Alaska, Anchorage 164 Bob Elyard, Wassilla 165 Mary Rosenzweig, Substance Abuse Directors Association, Anchorage 166 Angie Rosales, Alaska Resource Center, Anchorage 167 Terri Robertson, Anchorage 168 Ruth Quinlan, Abused Women's Aid in Crisis (AWAIC), Anchorage 169 Kim Renee Anderson, Anchorage 170 Helen Howarth, Executive Director, Alaska State Arts Council, Anchorage 171 Ed Bourgeois, Anchorage Opera, Anchorage 172 Joseph Dimateo, Governor's Advisory Board for Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Anchorage 173 Donald Heflin, Anchorage 174 Patricia Petrivelli, Anchorage 175 Michael Queen, Anchorage 176 Donna Matthews, Anchorage 177 Michele Miller, President, Anchorage Cultural Center, Anchorage 178 Gail Hollinger, Statewide Museum Association, Anchorage 179 Carol Von Meer, Anchorage 180 Robyn Henry, NAMI Alaska, Anchorage 181 John Novak, Anchorage 182 Christine McIntire, Executive Director, American Lung Association, Anchorage 183 Kathy White Murphy, Matsu 184 Harry Crawford, Anchorage 185 April Ferguson, Anchorage 186 Vivian Kinnaird, Alaska State Counsel on Arts, Anchorage 187 Martha Anderson, Anchorage 188 Joe Lind, Anchorage 189 Paul Merculif, Anchorage 190 Jenny Muray, American Cancer Society, Anchorage 191 Bill Legere, President and General Manager, KTOO, Juneau 192 Bea Shepard, Museums of Alaska, Juneau 193 Jeffrey Hermann, Producing Manager, Perseverance Theatre, Juneau 194 Charity Coleman, ILP, Juneau 195 Christopher Pace, Juneau 196 Dennis Egan, Mayor, City and Borough of Juneau 197 Dave Palmer, City Manager, City and Borough of Juneau 198 Sally Smith, Juneau 199 Bev Ingram, AILPA, Juneau 200 Jennifer Burton, Juneau 201 Robin Brenner, Juneau Alliance of the Mentally Ill, Juneau 202 Tracey Martin, Juneau 203 Harold Cleek, Alaska State Employees Association, Juneau 204 Katherine Doe, AWARE Shelter, Juneau 205 Susan Motter, AWARE Shelter, Juneau 206 Don Gray, Fairbanks 207 June Rogers, Executive Director, Fairbanks Art Association, Fairbanks 208 Joyce Parry-Moore, Juneau 209 Joy Lyon, President Alaska Association for Education of Young Children, Juneau 210 Peter DuBois, Artistic Director, Perseverance Theatre, Juneau 211 Annie Stokes, Alaska State Council on the Arts, Juneau 212 Sarah Elliott 213 Laura Rorem, CBJ, Advisory Board, Mental Health Board, Juneau 214 Nancy Seamount, Counselor, Juneau School District, Juneau 215 Grace Elliott 216 Annette Coggins, Director, AWARE, Juneau 218 Doris St.Clair 219 Brenda Goenett 220 Steve Shows, Juneau 221 Lem Batchelder, Illiamna 222 Richard Isett, ASEA, Juneau 223 Josett Valentine, Voice of America, Juneau 224 Rosemarie Alexander, Alaska Coastal Network, Juneau 225 Martha Valentine 226 Jon Loring 227 John Roxburgh 228 Lauree Hugonin, Director, Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Juneau 229 Caren Robinson, Alaska Women's Lobby, Juneau 230 Vernon Marshall, Executive Director, NEA-Alaska, Juneau 231 Beth Fritzgerald, Student, Juneau 232 Merritt Helfferich, Fairbanks (Testifiers are identified by number. See above.) LOG SPEAKER DISCUSSION  TAPE HFC 00 - 48   FAIRBANKS  SIDE 1    000 Co-Chair Mulder Convened the House Finance Committee statewide teleconference meeting on the operating budget at 9:05 a.m.  150 -1- Testified against eliminating funding for alcoholic and drug abuse treatment programs. She commented that these programs are a life support for people that have a problem with drugs and alcohol.  355 -2- Testified in support of funding for drug and alcohol treatment programs. He noted that these programs provide services for many that live in the rural areas.  454 -3- Reiterated previous testimony in support of drug abuse and alcohol treatment programs. He echoed that these programs save many lives. He pointed out that Alaska has one of the highest rates of alcohol abuse in the United States.  572 -4- Testified in support of continued funding for the RCAOA program and similar programs throughout the State. He urged that funding be allocated in the proposed budget.  736 -5- Commented regarding her status as a single mother needing treatment, while providing for her children. She urged members to consider continued funding of the drug and alcohol program offered in Fairbanks and throughout the State.  924 -6- Testified in support of continued funding for drug and alcohol abuse program. She recounted her years of struggle and emphasized the need to guarantee that programs would be available to others that need them.  1008 -7- Stated that she was born as an alcoholic and has passed the disease on to her daughter. She spoke in support of all  women in the Fairbanks area that have been addicted. She noted that the program has taught her about her addiction and her spirituality. She strongly urged that Committee members support further funding for all drug and alcohol centers in the state of Alaska. She stressed what a serious problem alcohol is in the state of Alaska.  1175 Co-Chair Therriault Asked if the program that she referred to was run by FNA and asked the location. He noted that program was still funded through the proposed funding.  1201 -8- Spoke in support of further funding for the University of Alaska. Ms. Spencer enumerated the opportunities that UAF is able to offer. With full funding the programs will be strengthened. The University needs full funding.  1343 -9- Spoke in support of the further funding for the University. She noted that she was an alumni of UAF. The University is experiencing a decline in student enrollment at the same time tuition costs have been raised. The state deserves the dedicated workforce that the UA could offer.  1413 Co-Chair Mulder Noted that there are 4 members of the Committee that are alumni of the University of Alaska.  1440 -10- Testified regarding the advisory vote and all the votes that the state citizens have made. She requested that the advisory vote not be the sole basis for a decision that guides Legislators. She stressed that the state cannot afford to not further fund education. She urged that members consider the consequences that will occur with poor funding of education. Additionally, she noted that the plan, which was created, should be reconsidered. It is a ludicrous goal to keep funding when other programs are making progress. Other states across the nation are  experiencing dramatic improvements. She maintained that 100% of childcare money has gone away, which is very short sited.  1616 -11- Encouraged the Committee to support increased funding for the University of Alaska. It is imperative that the state invests in the University system in order to keep the students here in Alaska.  1672 -12- Spoke in support of continued funding and increased funding for the University of Alaska. He commented that the University funding has been decreasing as the Department of Corrections funding has been increased.  1722 -13- Spoke on behalf of further funding for the University of Alaska. He commented that not providing adequate funding would be a serious problem for the state of Alaska.  1851 -14- Testified for greater support of the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (CDVSA). She commented that there is no place left to reduce funding without compromising the safety of the women and children in the shelter. She urged that there be no decrease in funding.  1945 -15- Spoke in support of further funding for the women's shelters throughout the state. The people that work at these shelters are providing incredible service for women and children that have great needs. She urged greater funding for these services. She noted how emotionally draining this work is. A paid staff should coordinate all the services for each individual.  2075 -16- Spoke in support of the services provided by the women's shelter throughout the State. She noted that she was served by the Shelter in Fairbanks, which provided childcare and support for her to get back on her feet after leaving a violent relationship. She  spoke for all women and children that use these services.  2164 -17- Spoke in support of further funding for the University of Alaska. She noted that she is a military wife trying to get educated. She urged also that further funding go into the childcare assistance program. Alaska has the highest costs for day care services. Further cutting will be devastating to the majority of the citizens of Alaska. Cutting funding will place more people on Welfare. The University will eventually help the economy.  2280 -18- Spoke in support of further funding for the University of Alaska and the increase that the University has proposed. These monies will help to meet inflation and contractual obligations.  TAPE CHANGE 00-48    SIDE 2  FAIRBANKS    050 -19- Spoke in continued support for the  University funding.  090 -20- Spoke in support of continued and  increased funding for women shelters  throughout the State. She commented on  how children will be alone without these  services.  196 -21- Spoke in support of further funding for  the University of Alaska. He commented  that there has been continued decrease  to the funding with the current budget  crisis in the state. He commented that  this is a destructive cycle. Further  funding for K-12 is preparing children  for "export". To save the state we must  save the University.  360 -22- Expressed concern with funding for  education. Spoke in support for further  funding for transportation costs  530 Co-Chair Therriault Provided information regarding education  funding.  549 Representative J. Questioned what is driving reductions in  Davies education funding.  569 Mr. 22 Explained that increased property values  have caused a decrease in education funding. There is a decrease from the state to the Assembly.  622 Co-Chair Therriault Noted that increased property values should not reduce the overall amount  648 -23- Spoke in support of funding for education. Stressed that education can improve the economy. Recommended that funding from the Earnings Reserve Account be used for education. Spoke in support of a $50 dollar school tax. Maintained that the state budget has been cut to the point where it affects the quality of life in Alaska.  839 Co-Chair Mulder Acknowledged remarks by the previous speaker. Referred to the ballot question regarding state use of the permanent fund dividend.  880 Mr. Larue Stressed that while people are opposed to spending the dividend, he supports use of earnings reserve.  924 Co-Chair Therriault Pointed out that use of the Earnings Reserve would impact the next year's dividend.  945 Mr. Laure Observed that many people do not understand the history behind the Permanent Fund. He voted against the plan because he did not feel that it was necessary to use the permanent fund dividend. He felt that there were other ways to support the needs of the state.  1040 Co-Chair Mulder Stressed that a long-term solution would require use of the Permanent Fund excess earnings. He explained the intent of the Long-Range Fiscal Plan. The decline in production is the major problem. A $50 dollar head tax would only raise $8 million dollars.  1108 Representative J. Noted that Mr. Laure stated that he is Davies willing to implement an income tax. He observed that the Long-Range Plan did not encompass other increases in revenues. People are willing to go beyond just using the Earnings Reserve.  1168 Co-Chair Mulder Emphasized that the Long-Range Plan was a starting point and that other measures  could have been discussed within the plan. Without a base line there is a reluctance to grow the budget.  1211 Representative Observed that his constituents spoke Williams against paying taxes while they are being handed the permanent fund dividend.  1266 -24- Spoke in support of Alaska state employees.  1309 -25- Pointed out that proposed cuts will only make up 4 percent of the shortfall. Spoke in support of an income tax, leave local and property tax to municipalities, raise fuel tax and vehicle registration fees, use earnings from Permanent Fund, put an upper limit on the dividend, and stop cuts to state government. Expressed concern with funding to the university and state troopers. Stop using budget cuts vindictively. Try to keep in mind the size of the savings accounts and financial stability. Stop expecting the federal government to pay the state's way. The state should raise revenues.  1530 Co-Chair Therriault Agreed that taxes should be at a local level.  1595 Representative Moses Expressed appreciation for Mr. Benson's remarks.  1600 Representative J. Also expressed appreciation for the Davies remarks of Mr. Benson.  1663 -26- Spoke in support of funding for education.  1699 -27- Spoke in support of funding for music and art education. She stressed that music assists math education and problem solving. Explained that the school board has recommended the elimination of the band program.  1917 Co-Chair Mulder Stressed that the formula program has not been reduced.  1933 Representative J. Stressed that there has not been a Davies significant drop in pupil registration. Pointed out that with cuts to municipal assistance and revenue sharing it is harder to make local contributions.  1983 Co-Chair Mulder Pointed out that additional funding was provided with the revisions of SB 36.  1998 Representative J. Observed that Delta is going to have to Davies lay off 27 percent of their teachers for a 9 percent decline in students.  2022 -28- Expressed concern with funding for education. She stressed that nurses, band teachers, and counselors are essential. Gave examples of how these teachers assist students.  2113 -29- Spoke in support of funding for education. Stressed the need for Quality Schools funding. Expressed concern with funding for pupil transportation. Spoke to impact of increases in access valuation to the school district. Detailed affects of an increase in accessed value. Concluded that there is a cap on local contribution.  2248 -30- Spoke in support of education funding. Stressed the difficulty of maintaining the quality of education with the level of funding.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00     49, SIDE 1  65 Ms. Scott Stressed that the ballot vote was just advisory. Emphasized that it makes more sense to put a fence at the top of the hill than a hospital at the bottom.  254 -31- Expressed concerns with reductions to sexual assault and abuse programs  435 -32- Spoke in support for funding education and legislation affecting education. Pointed out that there would be cuts to teachers with reductions to the education budget. School safety is a concern, as is the high school qualifying exam. There is a teacher shortage in the state. Funding for compensation and benefits is important to teachers. Fairbanks North Star Borough is facing serious education funding difficulties.  598 -33- Spoke in support of funding for education. Children are the ones that are affected by reductions in education  funding.  750 -34- Asked how long the decline in the quality of life in Alaska will continue. Noted that testifiers have not been requesting cuts to the budget. Pointed out that Alaska has a world economy. The burden of supporting government falls on business, not the citizens.  940 Co-Chair Therriault Observed that labor groups were not able to influence votes on the ballot initiative questioned why they voted no.  980 Mr. Brown Observed that labor leaders are elected and felt that they were reluctant to speak to their members. People he spoke to expressed support for an income tax. Stressed the need to diversify.  1100 -35- Spoke in support of education funding. Pointed out that they are facing a loss in music education programs. Music will become an elitist program, only those that can afford lessons will excel. Quality musicians must start at an early age.  1225 -36- Testified in support of continued funding for the education budget for all children in the State. She added that funding for the art budget is also of primary interest. Additionally, she requested that the Legislature fully fund the state contracts.  1306 -37- Voiced dismay that the state is trying to reduce funding to the Council on the Arts. He noted that in the last 16 years, the funding has gone from the best in the nation to the least funded in the entire United States.  1433 -38- Testified in support for continued funding for the State Arts Council. She noted that the federal match would be lost with this reduction. She added that death by a thousand cuts is the most painful of all.  1576 -39- Spoke in support of tobacco free programs paid for with the settlement money. Expressed further support for tobacco prevention programs.  1750 -40- Testified in support of funding for the University, representing the University alumni.  1803 -41- Voiced support for the Governor's budget that addresses concerns of children. She asked for full funding for alcohol and drug abuse programs. She stated that the cuts would be devastating and ultimately costly to the State. She echoed support for K-12 funding and the University. Invest in the children of Alaska. Many of the cuts do the opposite of that.  1924 -42- Noted that other revenue sources need to be found including reinstatement of a state income tax. Future leaders are today's children. Those citizens must have quality education and health care. Child protection, drug and alcohol treatment centers and tobacco funds for those concerns.  2032 -43- Testified for the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce. She requested that there be a balanced and reasonable approach of budgeting. She encouraged a long-range economic plan and pointed out strengthening the University should be part of that plan. She emphasized that a long-range plan needs to be implemented. She noted that the University is doing a lot of long range fiscal planning for the State. She asked that the Governor and Legislature work together for this concern.  2281 -44- Stated that she reiterated comments for support of early development and the K- 12 funding. She noted that the State should support all programs that keep costs down ultimately by providing health care services for all children in the school systems. The proposals made by the Legislature will highly impact all school districts.  TAPE CHANGE 00-49 FAIRBANKS  SIDE 2 053 -45- Testified in support of fully funding  the governor's recommendation for mental  illness services. If the decrement is adopted, it will be a dramatic decrease in services to these individuals. Chronic mental illness needs access to medical treatment to prevent incarceration costs. Treatment works!  209 Co-Chair Therriault Noted that the decrement still leaves a component growth of $417 thousand dollars. He noted that he would be meeting with the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority.  253 Ms. Grasto Commented that those funds were not supposed to be used to cover that type of program.  290 -46- Echoed observations of previous testimony. She noted that she was concerned with cuts to programs to families and children. She referenced the advisory vote, which did not mean that people do not want a state tax.  386 -47- Voiced support for additional funding for concerns with mental illness.  470 -48- Longevity bonus cuts will raise serious problems. Cuts to public radio are not good. Asked the Committee not to cut the Alaska Legal Services or childcare. Added that Department of Environmental Conservation cannot afford to be cut. Trade and Development is an area that Alaska needs a future in. Questioned if the State can afford to under-fund foster care. Child protection workers need further funding. Substance abuse needs to be further funded. Made in Alaska needs funding.  644 -49- Voiced support for further funding for education. The decisions made in the budget will dramatically effect what happens in the State for the future. This is a bipartisan issue. The cuts to transportation exasperate the problem. Need support for SB 198 and restore transportation money.  OFF NET SITES  853 890 -50- Voiced support for fully supporting  radio services in all rural communities.  The cuts would force collapses. There have been many cuts in the past years and these cuts will cause public radio to go off the air. Public Radio provides vital services to these communities. He urged that the cuts be restored.  998 -51- Echoed sentiments of the previous testimony. Local fund raising cannot support the services of these necessary services provided by public radio. These are essential services.  1084 -52- Do not make cuts to those programs that affect young children. Early intervention has changed many problems with young children. Rural Alaska needs help to deal with substance abuse. The child that has the benefit of quality day care will be the most successful.  1232 -53- Addressed concerns about cuts to public radio. The entire community links to one another through public radio. Public radio is the lifeline. Please continue funding to the social and health issues. With cuts coming forward and with oil money declining so goes the North Slope Borough budget. The rural area cannot afford to have cuts to foster care, infant learning, and rural service grants. These are vital to the people of the North Slope. They cannot absorb the costs. Legal Services needs continued funding. The proposed cuts will seriously influence all the people of the community.  1431 -54- Testified in support of continued public broadcasting.  1508 -55- Spoke in support of funding the women's shelter in the rural service area of the Lower Yukon Delta area. She noted that alcohol has ruined the culture. Healing and recovery will occur with the help of the entire village. Violence against self is a major concern in the village  area. She asked that the villages be empowered to do so. She pleaded that services not be cut that are essential to life in these areas.  1698 -56- Voiced concern about cuts to funding that deal with families and children. She noted that they do support the Governor's children's budget. She noted concern with the full funding of education, specifically, community college in the rural areas. Expressed additionally concern with cuts to the municipal revenue sharing. Cuts are hitting the village areas hard.  1823 -57- Principal of Togiak School. She voiced support of all measures that will help the children to assure that they have adequate support. She noted support for the Governor's children budget, health care and alcohol prevention and treatment programs. She urged funding for higher education to keep the intelligence in the state. Juvenile justice system needs further funding.  1934 -58- Voiced concern with the proposed cuts to public radio.  2043 -59- Echoed continued support for public radio. He commented that the community relies on safety and telephone messages that come across public radio.  2103 -60- Spoke in support of public radio funding. Noted that reductions would result in radio stations being taken off the air.  2145 -61- In support of funding for domestic violence and sexual assault programs.  2171 -62- Concerns with funding for municipal assistance and revenue sharing. Gave examples of problems in city funding. Added that funding for public broadcasting is very important.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00  2200   50, SIDE 1  045 -63- Stressed importance of village public  safety officers, education and public radio.  180 -64- Bethel control substance alliance. Support for funding for tobacco prevention programs.  470 -65- Public broadcasting is essential to everyday life. Highlighted importance of public announcement services on the radio.  613 -66- Stressed funding for drug and alcohol programs.  762 -67- Tundra Women's Spoke in support of funding for domestic Coalition violence and sexual assault programs. Discussed programs offered by TCA in the community to support women and children.  962 -68- Urged funding for public broadcasting. Essential manner of sharing state revenues. Helps without asking. Pointed out that many bush areas cannot receive urban stations.  1108 -69- Expressed concern with cuts to the education budget. Pointed out that cuts will result in teachers that must teach outside of their areas of education. Emphasized importance of schools as a part of local communities.  1254 -70- Spoke in support of funding for the university. Emphasized the need to maximize human resources through education. Pointed out that 90 95 percent of the state's educators went out-of-state for their education. Not enough professional Alaskans are educated in the state of Alaska.  1493 -71- Spoke in support of funding for the university and head start programs. Stressed that the quality of life is improved with education.  1570 -72- Expressed support for full funding for the university system.  1712 -73- Spoke in support for public broadcasting. Noted that there is overwhelming support for public broadcasting around the state. Observed that funding from public broadcasting would be shifted to aging and frail  individuals. Pointed out that aging use the services of public broadcasting.  1883 Co-Chair Therriault Explained that a shift from public broadcasting to the longevity bonus tried to maintain funding for public television due to the educational programs.  1915 -74- Spoke in support of funding for mental health programs. Concerns with inmate health care, Medicaid match, community based mental health grants, KBII, and the use of tobacco settlement funds for treatment.  1996 -75- Testified in support of full funding for the university's request. Maintained that the majority of college bound students leave the state. Alaskans represent one of the state's largest resources. Gave examples of work by the Council.  2113 -76- Testified in support of funding for the Council Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. She observed that their grant from the Council was reduced by $6,000 in the previous year as the result of cuts to the Council. A volunteer coordinator was reduced to part-time; resulting in a reduction of education and prevention activities.  2330 -77- Support for public broadcasting. Spoke in support of a fair graduated state income tax. Maintained that everyone must pay their fair share. Noted that the reason he did not support the long- range budget plan is because it did not include an income tax.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00     50, SIDE 2  48 -78- Spoke in support of funding for women in domestic violence programs.  110 -79- Testified in support of mental health programs.  301 -80- Spoke in support for continued funding for public radio and the State Arts Council.  446 -81- Spoke against the cuts to the Council on  the Arts in the state. She urged that there be no cuts to the Shelton Jackson Museum in Sitka. She stressed the assets that museum is to the State. She noted that testifiers are all demanding quality in the State.  583 -82- Mayor of Kodiak Borough. He voiced concern with the various boroughs' budgets and how important municipal sharing is for the individual budgets. Last year, each community received funding from the Legislature. He requested that the funding this year equal the funding received last year. Elimination of the funds will hurt all Alaskans.  729 -83- Executive Director, Kodiak on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Programs. He voiced support of continued funding for these programs. He enumerated the facts on drug abuse and alcoholism. He stressed that treatment abuse programs work in helping these people. He voiced concern with the way that the cuts would be made. He commented that FAS dollars cannot be used to off set treatment programs. He voiced concern with the reduction of funding for other agencies throughout the state. He urged the members to understand the consequences of reduced funding.  953 -84- News Director, Radio KHNS, Haines. Spoke in support of public radio. He listed all the services that the local radio station provides. The proposed cuts will do vital damage to the small communities in the State. Communication is essential to understand important issues and that will be reduced.  1122 -85- Spoke to the proposed cut to public radio. He noted that KHNS is the sole source of information for the Haines area. To zero out funding will reduce federal funding. They are currently using 3000 hours of volunteer hours per  year. Public radio is the only link to the outside world.  1210 -86- Commented on childcare funding and the need for restored funding for those programs. He added that there needs to be further funding for the grant program. The licensing program provides for a certain funding per child. He noted that 75% of the children at currently "at risk". By working with the school and Head Start, it is hope to create a community wide program. That will cost the community a lot.  1380 -87- Spoke in support of fully funding the University of Alaska's budget. More money needs to be spent on educating the rural Alaskan citizens. Local Alaskan employees spend most of their money in Alaska.  1505 -88- Testified in opposition to decreased funding for those people living in rural Alaska. He stressed that the key is in education. Low self-esteem, lack of job opportunities, and hopelessness are things that cause many of the suicides in the Bush area. Education is about saving the lives of our young people.  1608 -89- Spoke in behalf of the Wrangell radio station, KSGK. He commented that public broadcasting needs continued funding by the State of Alaska. It provides a lot of vital service to the public. Tourism is of little help in the communities.  1727 -90- Board of Directors, Radio-Wrangell. He spoke in support of continued funding for public broadcasting. For many people it is the sole source of networking with the rest of Alaska. There are thousands of hours of volunteerism in public radio. The communities rally behind these radio stations. Public broadcasting provides a valuable service to the citizens of Alaska.  1813 -91- Spoke support of further funding of the Taylor Highway in Eagle Alaska. She stated that some of the cuts are not  responsible cuts and should be reconsidered by the Committee members. She urged that the members try to determine ways to raise revenues, not to continue to cut. She noted that no one is encouraging the cuts that are proposed.  1923 Co-Chair Therriault Noted that the funding was included in legislation that passed out of the house this past week.  1987 -92- Spoke against the cuts to power cost equalization and public radio. She urged members to find a way to grow rather than pushing citizens down. She noted that she supported a fair income tax.  2064 -93- Commented on the Taylor Road funding. She noted how important that funding is for the people of that community. The division between rural and urban becomes deepened with issues like this.  2142 -94- City Manager. Stressed that there should be no further cuts to municipal and revenue sharing. She supported coming up with a plan to tape the earnings on the Permanent Fund. She noted that the vote in September was a vote to determine ways to tap funding services already available in the State. She noted support for the PCE program and voiced appreciation that the budget is on a faster track this year.  2228 -95- Spoke in support of continued funding for local substance abuse programs. She stated that funding was needed in their region for programs, which impact people suffering from alcoholism. The funding is important.  2295 -96- Testified in support of continued funding to the alcohol and drug programs in the State.  TAPE CHANGE 00-51    SIDE 1 097 -97- General Manager, Electric Assn. & Public Radio. Spoke in support of full funding for public broadcasting. Commented on  the critical services to the citizens of Alaska, public safety, municipal revenue sharing, and public radio. He commented on the advisory vote and how that was worded. The State needs adequate communication and education. He suggested establishing an endowment for the future of children.  306 Co-Chair Therriault Asked about the disconnect regarding what Alaskans are continuing to support and what they are willing to pay for.  342 Replied that Alaska has the highest support of public broadcasting than any state in the nation. He added that there is not a strong economic base in rural Alaska. The state has lost 70% of original money through cuts.  411 -98- Spoke as a recovering alcoholic. She urged continued funding for the alcohol and drug abuse programs.  510 -99- Program Director, Bristol Bay Health Corporation. She noted that she supported further funding for the alcohol and drug abuse programs. She noted that there is a turning point occurring in rural Alaska and it would be a shame to lower the funding for these programs. The local citizens support these programs as they recognize the impact of FAS children. Over time, it is likely that treatment will work for those in treatment. People do heal. She asked that members consider the money saved by the programs working.  807 -100- Director, Bristol Bay Sexual Assault Agency. She stated that it has been difficult to be "held" harmless. She listed all the accomplishments of the shelter. She noted that the agency is funded through the Department of Public Safety and noted that the State is getting a lot from the amount that they are paid. Maintained that excellent services are provided with the amount given to each community for these services. She noted that a cut to the  grant line was recommended and emphasized that could mean a $20 thousand dollar cut to her organization. People are working long hours and they cannot keep up with the cuts proposed.  1090 -101- Director, South Peninsula Woman's Services. She voiced concerns with the funding cuts that will affect women of domestic violence and sexual assault. Many children are growing up in abusive homes. She noted that the services will be negatively affected by the cuts that are proposed. Outreach services will be dramatically affected.  1226 -102- Educator. Spoke in support of the programs that educate all people in Alaska and against the cut to the Alaska State Council on the Arts and public broadcasting. She asked that sales and statewide income tax be implemented to fund educational programs.  1295 -103- Testified in support of funding for education. A better-educated society is a better-protected society.  1367 -104- Spoke in support of mental health programs. Increase tax on alcohol.  1516 -105- Spoke in support of programs for substance abuse. Pointed out that alcoholics and drug-addicted individuals cannot speak for themselves. A 1.5 million-dollar cut in services would increase to $3 million dollars in three years due to loss of matching funds. Support taxes on alcohol.  1557 -106- Administer, City of Klawock, testified in support of funding for drug and alcohol abuse programs. Stressed that there would be a reduction in education programs with reduced funding.  1701 -107- Clinical director, Mental Health Services, spoke against cuts to mental health programs. Suggested implementation of an income tax.  1758 -108- Testified in support of programs that support drug and alcohol abuse programs.  1821 -109- Concern with the use of tobacco  settlement funds. Stressed that tobacco funds are used for prevention education.  1884 -110- Support for funding of Shelton Jackson Museum.  1999 -111- Urge opposition of cuts to public broadcasting. Stressed that public broadcasting is not a luxury; it is an essential service. Stop cutting and look at a sustainable long-range plan.  2072 -112- Testified in support of public broadcasting. Already doubled their private grants. Suggested that the vote against the use of the permanent fund dividend was misunderstood. Stressed that he is willing to pay an income tax.  2203 -113- Spoke in support of funding for alcohol and drug abuse programs. Stressed that alcohol abuse is the biggest health problem in Alaska. Treatment works. Spoke in support of funding for public radio. Noted the lack of testimony in support of budget cuts.  2270 -114- Spoke in support of funding for public radio. Restore public funding noted that costs have been reduced and redundancy eliminated. Stressed the level of public support. Community radio encompasses all cultural groups.  2352 -115- Testified in support of public broadcasting. Cuts over the last 15 years have been difficult to deal with.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00     51, SIDE 2  32 Funding is now regional. There is no easy way to make further cuts. TV and radio are linked together. Radio stations do not stand alone  84 -116- Testified in support of funding for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. Recounted services by the Council.  260 -117- Spoke in support of funding for public broadcasting. Stressed importance for marine weather forecasts.  473 -118- Support for public radio and the Made in Alaska program.  580 Co-Chair Therriault Pointed out Made in Alaska program is self-funding.  659 -119- Testified in support of funding for tobacco prevention and control programs.  764 -120- Spoke in support of funding for public radio.  930 -121- Stressed the importance of public radio.  974 -122- Testified in support of funding for public radio, arts, and museums.  1055 -123- Spoke against cuts to public broadcasting.  1084 -124- Testified in support of funding for domestic violence and sexual assault programs.  1183 -125- Shared her experience with domestic violence and spoke in support of further funding for sexual assault and domestic violence programs.  1237 -126- Spoke in support of funding for public broadcasting. Noted importance of the public station for community information, including weather reports.  1430 -127- Testified in support of funding for alcohol and drug abuse programs. Emphasized that jails are overcrowded and suggested that funding of prevention programs could reduce the prison population. Added that childcare assistance is needed to remove people from welfare.  1590 -128- Testified in support of funding for mental health programs. Recounted personal experiences with alcohol abuse.  1749 -129- Spoke against cuts to municipal assistance and revenue sharing.  1816 -130- Voiced concern with the cuts to municipal funding and revenue sharing. He listed all the programs that are funded with that money. He reminded members that no one that had testified had supported the cuts.  1945 -131- Nurse Practitioner, Mental Health. She urged that funding a non-profit will give the state a lot for their money. She noted that funding these programs will be economically better for Alaska.  2011 -132- Voiced support of public broadcasting in the State. She stressed that no cutting should happen for the non-profits throughout the State. Mental health, education, sexual assault, public broadcasting. She stressed that the fishing industry is important to the State and the Nation.  2090 -133- Testified in support of further funding for sexual assault and domestic violence, which will affect the safety of women. She stressed that the rural areas will suffer the most by these cuts.  TAPE CHANGE 00-52    SIDE 1 000 -134- Spoke in support for further funding of shelter homes and organizations for sexual assault, child abuse and domestic violence. She noted that major problems in the fisheries have negatively affected the number of clients that are served through these programs. There has been no increased in state funding for two years. She emphasized that compromise conditions will happen with decreased funding.  311 -135- General Manager, Unalaska General Broadcasting. Spoke in support of further funding for public television and radio. He commented that these programs provide vital services and emergency services for the people of that area. He noted that the program is very efficient as requested by the Legislature. The cuts will be devastating.  441 Mayor Kelsey Recommended providing some kind of state plan for budget revenues. He encouraged that other programs become available.  529 -136- Voiced concern with cuts to public broadcasting. He pointed out that the cuts have been continuous for the past 12 years. It will seriously damage the infrastructure of the essential service of weather forecast and essential  services of emergency nature. He pointed out the match that the community makes to radio funding. The radio station is responsible to notify all emergency coordinators.  757 -137- President, Petersburg Radio Station. She spoke to the proposed cuts to public broadcasting. Money for public broadcasting is based on State funding.  842 -138- Voiced concern with cuts to education of $19 million dollars. She spoke to the vital loss to the school programs. She noted that the price of oil is high right now. Additionally, she pointed out that there is a lot of money in the Permanent Fund that could be used for education. She asked what happened that can justify the diminished funding to public radio.  1005 -139- Board of Director, Peninsula Services. He spoke to the cuts to the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. He supported the idea of an income tax. He asked members to consider the long-term impact of the cuts. He questioned the cost of not treating alcohol patients, which will far exceed the proposed cuts.  1133 -140- Local Administrator, Childcare, Homer. She spoke in support for childcare assistance funding. Present funding will remove families from their program to reduce the budget.  1199 -141- Mental Health Advocate. She spoke in support of funding public radio. She added that sexual, drug and alcohol abuse programs need to be fully funded. Her main concern was the health and safety of children. There is an obligation to find a cure for alcohol abuse.  1290 -142- Public Radio, Lower Kenai Peninsula. Testified in support of fully funding of $330 thousand dollars for public radio. He noted that they have done everything that was asked of them. The time for cutting is past. It is time to come up  with a new source of funding such as a state income tax or sales tax.  1396 -143- Volunteer Public Radio. Spoke in support of fully funding public radio. He noted that there is a need for a state income tax.  1516 -144- Journalist, Fisheries. Spoke in support of fully funding public radio. He observed that Homer is in need of continual funding of public radio.  1578 -145- Spoke in support of fully funding public radio. She urged that we should cut what needs to be cut to leave the Permanent Fund alone.  1690 -146- Full funding on the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. She noted her direct involvement in a sexual assault situation and the care that she received at the local women's shelter in Juneau.  1865 -147- She noted that the permanent fund has been exempted from IRS taxes. She listed that fundamental services are being denied. She hoped that the IRS would investigate the use of the permanent fund dividend. The Legislature continues to cut. She noted that the working poor cannot afford to not notice what is happening.  1960 -148- President, Board of Public Radio. Testified in support of continued funding for public broadcasting. He commented that the local radio stations are doing more with less. The impact of the cut will destroy many radio stations.  2038 -149- Elementary School District. Asked that the committee adequately fund school education. She pleaded that we not sacrifice the children themselves. It is impossible to teach without the tools that they need. Children are not arriving at school ready to learn.  2140 -150- President of Kenai School Assn. Spoke against the decreased funding to the foundation formula. The cuts are  directly hurting educational programs.  ANCHORAGE  TAPE CHANGE 00-52    SIDE 2 000 -151- Spoke in support of sound business  accounting processes.  064 -152- Testified in support of fully funding  public broadcasting and the Division of  Tourism.  202 -153- Regional Director, American Heart Assn.  Spoke in support for appropriate use of  the tobacco settlement money. She  stressed that the State should not dip  into the money to fund other programs.  294 -154- Asked for greater funding to the  University of Alaska. She listed the  items that are breaking down on the  campuses because of a lack of funding.  389 -155- Requested adequate funding for the  University system within the State. She  stressed that it is time to recognize  the value of the university system.  479 -156- Opposed to the time limit given to the  testifiers. She noted that education  should be the number one objective of  each legislator. She noted the valuable  "brain drain" occurring in the State.  582 -157- UAA. Spoke in support of further funding  for the University of Alaska. She noted  that the computer science program is not  accredited. Urged full funding to the  University system.  714 -158- Student. Spoke in support of fully  funding the University of Alaska budget  request.  811 -159- Chair of Alaska Tobacco Alliance. She  noted that the Tobacco Settlement funds  are a unique opportunity to work with  the citizens' effort to prevent tobacco  relief. A difference can be made. She  urged reconsideration of a 5%  allocation.  881 -160- Testified in support of public  broadcasting. He noted that public  broadcasting has sustained many cuts for  the past couple of years. He urged  reconsideration of these cuts.  1000 -161- Spoke in support of funding for alcohol and abuse programs. Recommended an alcohol tax.  1033 -162- Spoke in support of tobacco prevention programs.  1077 -163- Spoke in support of Made in Alaska programs.  1185 -164- Look at new revenue generating programs, such as the lottery. Also spoke in support of childcare grants.  1284 -165- Spoke in support of funding for alcohol and drug abuse programs.  1389 -166- Spoke in support of funding for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.  1447 -167- Support in support of daycare assistance grants. Maintained that children would be dropped from the program.  1493 Co-Chair Mulder Pointed out that childcare grants have grown.  1507 -168- Support for Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.  1565 -169- Spoke in support of Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. Recounted personal experiences.  1699 -170- Spoke against funding changes in the budget of the Alaska State Council on the Arts. Pointed out that the $75 thousand dollar AIPP funding source would jeopardize state grants and federal match.  1777 -171- Spoke against the funding change in the budget of the Alaska State Council on the Arts. Expressed concern that federal matching funds can be lost. Stressed that art should be affordable to all people.  1900 -172- Spoke against cuts to alcohol and drug abuse programs. Stressed that over 50 % of the outpatients remain clean. Spoke in favor of an alcohol tax. Noted support for tobacco prevention programs.  1978 -173- Testified against cuts to drug and alcohol abuse programs. Pointed out that the cost of imprisoning addicts is  substantial. Stressed that costs will be greater if not addressed.  2072 -174- Support for art and cultural programs, Shelton Jackson museum, Alaska State Council on the Arts and public broadcasting.  2116 -175- Testified in support of funding for drug and alcohol abuse programs and the university. Funding for the university has not kept up with inflation.  105 -176- Spoke in support of funding for the Shelton Jackson museum. It is the oldest museum in the state.  246 Co-Chair Mulder Pointed out that $36 in program receipts were added. Net reduction $20 in general fund.  306 -177- Spoke against reductions for the arts. She reminded members that the price of oil is increasing.  351 -178- Reminded members that the State museums are a part of the art system throughout the state. She urged funding to keep the museums open for the full year.  477 -179- Asked why there is an imbalance in the economy and the social structure. She noted the cuts to the cultural areas.  625 -180- Spoke against cuts to programs affecting the mentally ill. Cuts to services will increase medical care down the line. Chronically medical ill programs were cut $200 thousand dollars.  760 -181- Alaska spends too much to imprison its people. Suggested the elimination of mandatory sentencing. Not tough on crime but affective on crime.  840 Co-Chair Mulder Stressed that the legislature has prioritized community-based programs.  879 -182- Spoke in support of funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs. Medicaid does not cover cessation programs.  975 -183- Testified in support of funding for education. Budget does not reflect inflation increases and quality school mandates. Emphasized that there will be students that do not pass the high  school qualify exit exams and benchmark exams. Need resources to support standards through remedial programs. Class sizes have risen.  1283 -184- Expressed frustration with budget cuts. Cutting the quality of Alaskan lives.  1370 -185- Support for an income tax. Cuts will dismantle infrastructure. Support for Alaska Legal Services. Emphasized that only low-income persons get services.  1406 -186- Support for funding to the Alaska State Council on the Arts. Pointed out that the $75 thousand dollars fund source change would result in a loss in federal match.  1559 -187- Support for childcare funding. She added that the licensing program should be fully funded. She urged that consideration of children be made.  1668 -188- Voiced concern with the decrease of funding to the drug and alcohol programs. He asked that members begin preparing us for the future.  1750 -189- Voiced concern with the basic public health issue, both tobacco and alcohol and other drugs. He noted that Alaska collects some of the highest taxes in the nation. Much of those funds should go to Medicaid, however, some of that money should go into the smoking cessation program. He urged implementing the 25 cents per drink tax.  1869 -190- American Cancer Society. She testified regarding funding for appropriating some of the tobacco settlement money. She asked that the American Cancer society be prioritized. The smokers of Alaska are paying for the money that is coming in.  1962 -191- Testified in support of further funding for public broadcasting and public radio. He noted that the people that work in public broadcasting have done as much as they can to provide what Alaskans want and need.  2057 Representative G. Noted the letter from the Alaska Public  Davis Broadcasting members. He noted that the letter contained misinformation. He stated that the subcommittee looked at all the functions of the Department and believed that public radio was the one that should receive the biggest decrease. He asked that be placed on the record. Representative G. Davis took offense regarding that information.  2159 Mr. Legere Replied that public radio is trying to adapt to the cuts to the system.  TAPE CHANGE 00-53    SIDE 2 023 Representative J. Voiced appreciation for the work of Davies people like Mr. Legere. He noted that every year citizens have stated that enough is enough. He voiced appreciation for work well done.  083 -192- Represented museums in Alaska. She voiced support for funding the Shelton Jackson museum. She voiced concern with the $56 thousand dollar cut to the museum. She spoke to all the care that needs to happen during the time that the museum is closed.  345 Representative Explained that the Governor submitted Grussendorf the cut. He commented that created a dilemma.  402 Ms. Shepard Agreed that the Department provided the number. They believed that the museum could operate on program receipts alone. She stated that it is a bigger problem than anticipated.  462 -193- Voiced opposition to the reduction of funding for the arts. He noted that the adoption of the cut will dramatically affect the arts within the State. He stressed the effect it will have on Perseverance Theatre. The support of the state allows the theatre to leverage funds from both private and federal funding sources.  603 -194- Testified in support of funding for the Infant Learning Program. She requested that the program be funded at the Governor's requested amount. She stated  that there are 333 children on that waiting list.  774 -195- Spoke in support of full funding of the State employee contracts. He commented that the state employees work throughout the state and are the ones that make the state of Alaska government happen. The contracts have not kept up with the cost of living. He pointed out that some state employees are now working second jobs.  1005 -196- Mayor of Juneau. He spoke to funding cuts to municipal assistance and revenue sharing. He commented on how that would affect the citizens of Juneau. He commented that the cuts would not take into consideration unfunded mandates. Based on the current mil rate and local sales tax of 5% leaves no option but to cut city jobs. General government has decreased by 9% in the city of Juneau. The total budget has only increased 2.7% in 15 years. A further reduction in this will be disastrous. Mr. Egan stressed that communities want to address a solution.  1210 Co-Chair Therriault Asked of Mr. Egan knew of the new program in the HESS budget for the state owned hospital.  1231 -197- City Manager. Noted that local government is doing what it can to do to absorb these hits. Referred to other issues related to criminal prosecution. He noted that the municipal assistance and revenue sharing funding helps with municipal prosecution.  1340 Co-Chair Mulder Recognized that Juneau is the only community that does local prosecution.  1355 -198- Spoke in support of further funding for KTOO. She suggested that the strength of people has two major components. Emphasized that our commercial stations put profits in us as a people because it improves our minds, which has an economic pay off down the road. She added that it is important to look at  what the systems have done to absorb the funding cuts. These are our values as people to make the next creative approach. She urged further support.  1460 Co-Chair Therriault Commented that the Subcommittee intended that the impact to public television would be livable. He questioned the impact.  1482 Ms. Smith Replied that the effect would be to both the radio and the television in Juneau and the education value of Coast Alaska.  1516 -199- Spoke in support of the Alaska Infant Learning Program. She noted that this program provides education resources to support the families. Early intervention is essential at this time. Families cannot afford to wait during this critical time. She urged members to included the $700 thousand recommended by the Governor.  1613 -200- Spoke in support of AWARE funding. She explained that she has been supported by AWARE through sexual abuse situations in her life. She was able to educate her self with the shelter's help; couldn't have without help.  1748 Co-Chair Therriault May be able to offset TANF funds for Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault  1806 -201- Testified in support of mental health programs. Funding helps to increase community participation.  1896 Co-Chair Therriault Work with mental health board.  1906 -202- Spoke in support of funding for education. It does not make sense to cut funding for education while requiring exit exams. Librarians result in higher reading scores. When the teacher pupil ratio is cut and reading specialists lost the success rate of students is reduced.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00    - 54, SIDE 1  62 Representative G. Funding for education is at formula Davis level reductions refer to decline in numbers  106 Representative J. Emphasized the need to do more.  Davies 198 -203- Support of employee contracts. Stressed impact to lower scale employees and the difficulty of recruiting employees.  393 Representative Issue of the workforce shortage is a Phillips concern. The Alaska journal of Commerce has an article on the issue. It predicts a crisis in employment in the next ten years.  449 -204- Spoke in support of funding for Domestic Violence and Sexual abuse. She accounted her experience and emphasized the importance of shelters.  629 -205- Noted that she was a victim of domestic violence. Stressed the need of victims in small towns for a place to go. Importance of intervention. Stressed the affect on children in domestic violence situations.  849 Representative How many can't leave small communities Grussendorf and must stay in their environment.  890 Family resource center helped her get out of town.  908 -206- Urged funding for the university, including the maintenance budget, mental health programs, grants for childcare assistance and public broadcasting.  1176 -207- Support of art funding. She urged that the members become willing to invest in the people of the state.  1348 -208- Spoke in support of the arts to our state. She stressed how important the arts are to living in the State of Alaska. She spoke in support of grants and funding to the theatre and the arts programs. Art in public places is vital. She spoke in support of programs run by the local arts Council. She urged members to make a smart investment of $75 thousand dollars in general funds.  1543 Representative Noted that most people do not make their Phillips living through the arts.  1560 Ms. Parry-Moore Noted that she was a teacher of voice and an actor and singer. She noted that she pieced it together. So many of the  smaller organization rely on that funding.  1601 -209- President, Alaska Assn. of Education of the Child. She urged full support for providing for children's needs. The actions of the State speak louder than our words. The state is not talking about prevention, but rather treading water. Stated that the work of the legislature is to mitigate the long-term damage and to not have long-term impacts. Children cannot wait. Additional funds are need for safe options for parents. 1. Denali Kid Care 2. Healthy Families 3. Head Start  1824 -210- Reiterated concern that the $76 thousand dollars for art in public places not be cut. He noted that Perseverance uses that money to leverage money from the federal government. The money received from the State is put back into the economy. He noted his support for public broadcasting.  1903 -211- Voiced concern for the cut to the arts. She noted that cut would be devastating for our culture and our State. The investment attracted 2x regional and federal returns. Alaskans want the arts. Your constituents want support for the arts. The arts create a creative work force. It is not in the best interest to cut these programs. She asked why our students are not learning. She noted that there are different types of learning. Many cultures teach by doing. The state is still giving the information in the same old way. Alaska invests $.75 cents in arts per person. It is not in the best interest to cut the arts. The most important thing about our future is to use our imaginations. She invited people to imagine what would make a better Alaska.  2153 -212- Spoke in support of public radio. She stressed that public radio needs support. She added that she supported the full funding for the Arts program.  2221 -213- Testified in support of FAS. She commented that she is the adoptive mother of two children with many illnesses because the birth mother drank during pregnancy. She pleaded for members not to cut any grants that affect those that suffer from serious mental illnesses. She asked for members to address FAS, domestic violence or sexual assault. Loosing funds denies treatment for the most vulnerable.  TAPE CHANGE 00-54    SIDE 2 358 -214- Spoke in support of full funding for children and the domestic violence program. She stated that ΒΌ of the children that she had in classroom suffered from either sexual abuse or alcohol or divorce. Advocate of full funding for schools and domestic violence. She has 170 students and works 60 hours a week, but still can't get to all of the kids. Support for domestic violence and sexual abuse programs.  727 -215- Spoke in support of public radio. Emphasized that she pledges as much as she can afford. Commercial stations cannot provide the same services.  878 -216- Support of funding for domestic violence and sexual assault. Gave details on services provided by shelters. Noted low pay of staff and lack of benefits. Does a lot with very little and no place left to cut. Questioned if they should reduce efforts in schools, providing shelter or other services.  1133 -217- Support for funding of programs that assist fetal alcohol syndrome and other services that affect children. Parents alone do not raise children. Support for funding on mental health programs.  1304 Representative J. What is the $5.8 million dollar  Davies reduction.  1318 Co-Chair Therriault Explained that funding is being shifted for five years and that no match is required. He maintained that Alaska spends more money than next closest state in gross dollars.  1399 Ms. Rorem Doesn't want money to be used to replace existing dollars; should be dedicated for fetal alcohol programs.  1452 Co-Chair Therriault Portion diverted is specifically for fetal alcohol program in Fairbanks.  1471 -218- Support for alcohol treatment programs. Recounted personal experiences with alcohol addiction.  1604 -219- Support for drug and alcohol addiction funding. Noted her experience with alcoholism and the support given her through treatment. Stressed the affects of alcoholism on children.  1734 -220- Support for funding in the Department of Public Safety for code inspectors.  1866 Representative Noted that there are one-year federal Grussendorf funds to bring buildings to code. Federal funding through FEMA is tied.  1906 Representative G. Maybe more appropriate in the capital Davis budget. Noted that $98 thousand needed for a state match.  1942 -221- It takes state resources to make money. Urged members to invest in rural Alaska. Spoke against the use of Permanent Fund.  2036 Representative In Community and Economic Development Phillips look at opportunities to connect communities.  2105 -222- Support for funding of state employee contracts. Perceived that there would be a strike if contracts are not funded. Can be averted with a fiscal plan that encompasses taxes.  2193 -223- Support for funding to public radio. Noted the force of public radio. Importance of rural radio and the participation of volunteers.  TAPE CHANGE HFC00-   55, SIDE 1  Continued remarks in support of public radio. "Now that I have the horse  trained not to eat it dies."  182 -224- Emphasized that volunteers keep public radio on the air. Members support public radio. Stressed that there have been huge cuts over many years. Have done what they can to protect sound of local stations; many services have been combined.  392 -225- Support for health care programs and public radio. Added support for mental health programs.  564 -226- Support for museum funding. Expressed concerns regarding closure of Shelton Jackson Museum in Sitka. Observed that there are fewer people working for state museums than in 1976.  689 Representative Asked the amount necessary to sustain Grussendorf the museums' funding.  748 Mr. Loring Explained that tour companies want to own the resources. He did not know how much could be raised. The increase in program receipts would be both from Sitka and Juneau.  830 -227- Spoke to funding the State contracts. He stated that the State wages are low and below market. He commented that the agreements do not represent an increase in pay, but rather a softening of the blow. With the contracts they would only lose a small percentage of the cost of living increase. He pointed out that State employees are not looking for a free handout. The state employee is being squeezed economically so that they can barely pay their rent. He requested that the contracts be funded.  1109 Co-Chair Therriault Asked if the members understand that the agreement must come to the Legislature for ratification.  1162 Mr. Roxburgh Replied that there is a difference between the approval of the contract and the funding of the contract. He agreed that it is a difficult issue. Members would be disappointed if the contracts are turned down.  1232 Co-Chair Therriault Noted that this a three-year contract.  He noted that they cannot bind future legislatures. He spoke to the eroding funding negotiations.  1278 Mr. Roxburgh Commented that merit increases should reflect merit and not an inflation proofing for wages. On the average, what the workers are being paid is not keeping up with inflation.  1337 Co-Chair Therriault Spoke to his confusion regarding the pay increase for merit. He stated that pay can raise 18% over a 20-year period of time. He stated that was a discrepancy.  1402 Representative Commented that the Legislature should be Austerman negotiating the contracts.  1425 Representative Commented that the numbers of merit Kerttula increases should be determined. She noted that an employee can max out in those positions.  1481 Mr. Roxburgh Suggested that they contact the labor economist, Tom Wylie.  1503 Representative J. Commented that the skill level must be Davies compared.  1540 -228- Spoke on behalf of the network on domestic violence and sexual assault. She spoke on behalf of the statewide committee on stalking women. The federal money does not go to programs. Alaska one of the few states that has allowed judiciary to take advantage of funding in order to understand their role in domestic violence. Detailed where money has been spent. Looking for alternative financial support and transitional housing. Increase in federal dollars supports systems that interact with victims and help first responders, not programs. Seeking support from federal government. State dollars support emergency first response.  2031 -229- Support for Alaska Legal Services. Pointed out that it is the first avenue to assist domestic violence cases. Recounted services provided by Alaska Legal Services. Support for programs to address domestic violence and sexual assault. Alaska was among the first to  combine domestic violence and sexual assault. Observed that 12 women died as the result of domestic violence in Alaska in one year.  2258 -230- Expressed concern with funding for education. Impact of inflation cancels increases in SB 36. Detailed funding needs. Stressed need to address students that do not pass benchmark exams and high school graduation qualifying tests.  TAPE CHANGE, HFC 00     55, SIDE 2  72 Mr. Marshall He continued his testimony on behalf of additional education funding. The loss of students is more than 2 percent. Noted the need for deferred maintenance. Schools mirror every city and village in Alaska. Questioned if the legislature would provide the resources so that each student can take advantage.  432 Mr. Marshall In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, noted that the ADM was $134,000 in FY00 and is $131,000 for FY01. Pointed out that costs are not greatly reduced by a decrease in two students.  701 -231- Spoke in support of education funding and emphasized the need to reduce class size. Noted disrepair of the buildings, leaking roofs, "hard to focus on the teachers when things are falling apart around you."  836 -232- Support for public broadcasting. Recalled experiences with KUAC radio in Fairbanks. Stressed that public radio has improved the quality of life. It serves the whole community.  1030 Co-Chair Mulder Remarks thanking testifiers.  1044 Co-Chair Therriault Emphasized that there haven't been complaints regarding the need for an automatic supplemental in FY01. Stressed the areas that received funding.  1096 Representative G. Justifications for programs that were Davis being reduced.  1163 Co-Chair Mulder Noted comments by testifiers suggesting solutions to the state's financial  problems. In support for alternatives.  1209 Co-Chair Mulder ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.