HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE February 23, 2008 10:09 AM CALL TO ORDER Co-Chair Chenault called the House Finance Committee meeting to order at 10:09:59 AM MEMBERS PRESENT Representative Mike Chenault, Co-Chair Representative Kevin Meyer, Co-Chair Representative Bill Stoltze, Vice-Chair Representative Harry Crawford Representative Les Gara Representative Mike Hawker Representative Reggie Joule Representative Mike Kelly Representative Mary Nelson Representative Bill Thomas Jr. MEMBERS ABSENT Representative John Harris ALSO PRESENT Representative Ralph Samuels; Representative Sharon Cissna; Representative Peggy Wilson; Representative Scott Kawasaki; Representative Bob Buch. PRESENT VIA TELECONFERENCE KENAI, VALDEZ, KETCHIKAN, KODIAK, SEWARD, MATSU, GLENALLEN, TOK: Gregory Carpenter, Seward Waterfront Lodging; Dave Peterson, Valdez Visitors Bureau; Colleen Stephens, Valdez; John Devens, Valdez; Dave Cobb, Director, Valdez Fisheries; Stan Stephens, Stan Stephens Cruises; Sandra White, Tourism Mat- Su; John Loomis, Talkeetna; Michael Tuckness, Mat-Su; Carolyn Dull, Mat-Su; Kimberly Baker, Self, Mat-Su; Karen Nugelos, Nugens Ranch, Mat-Su; Mark Lackey, Executive director, Catholic Community Services (CCS) Learning Center, Mat-Su; Bonnie Quill, Executive Director of Mat-Su Visitor Bureau, Tourism, Mat-Su; Rachel Greenberg, Palmer Senior Services, Mat-Su; James Garhart, Mat-Su; Barbara Walters, Interim Director, Lee Shore Center, Kenai; Richard Warrington, Alaska Brain Injury Awareness Network, Kenai; Michelle Glaves, Executive Director, Soldotna Chamber of Commerce; Billie Hardy, Alaska Hardy Adventures, Soldotna; Steve Horn, Executive Director, Alaska Behavioral Health Association, Soldotna; Shannon Hamrick, Kenai Peninsula Tourism Marketing Council; Todd Phillips, Trinkets, Ketchikan; Diane Naab, Owner, Exploration Gallery, Ketchikan; Ed Zastrow, Chairman, Pioneer Home Advisory Board; Patti Mackey, Executive Director, Ketchikan Visitor's Bureau; Elena Rath, Rendezvous Day Services, Ketchikan; Kari Erickson, Discover Alaska Tours, Ketchikan; Kevin Gadsey, Independent Coordinator, Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL), Ketchikan; Pat Chapman, Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL), Ketchikan; Jessie Chapman, Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL), Ketchikan; Naomi Michalsen, Acting Director, Woman in Safe Homes, Ketchikan; Katy Hopkins, Children's Director, Woman in Safe Homes, Ketchikan; Pat Jacobson, University of Alaska Board of Regents, Kodiak; Pat Jacobson, University of Alaska, Board of Regents, Kodiak; Barbara Bolson, Director, Kodiak College, University of Alaska, Kodiak; Flossie Spencer, Kodiak Women's Resource & Crisis Center, Kodiak; Barbara Brown, Kodiak College, University of Alaska; Katie Walker, Faculty, Kodiak College, University of Alaska; Colleen Newman, Kodiak Women's Resource & Crisis Center, Kodiak; Debra Johnson Gritman, Kodiak College, University of Alaska; Rebecca Shields, Kodiak Woman's Resource& Crisis Center; Janet Buckingham, Kodiak Island Convention & Visitor's Bureau, Kodiak; Karen Lambert, Alaska Legal Services, Kodiak; Brian Cameron, Chowder House Restaurant & Private Charter, Kodiak; Tim Carlson, Larsen Bay Lodge, Larsen Bay; Cindy Harrington, Kodiak; Mary Nelson, Cruise Line Agencies, Seward; Alan Lemaster, Salmon Charters, Glenallen BETHEL, KOTZEBUE, BARROW, NOME, DELTA JUNCTION, OFFNETS: Richard Beneville, Nome Discovery Tours; Barbara Lippe, AWIC, Barrow; Louisa Riley, Board Member, AWIC, Barrow; Virginia Walsh, AWIC, Barrow; Dick Wenger, Rika's Roadhouse, Delta Junction; Karin Seibenmorgen, Tundra Womens's Coalition; Kaela Geschke, Tundra Women's Coalition; Chelsea Gulling, Tundra Women's Coalition; Laurinda O'Brien, Yukon Kuskokwim Health Center (YKHC); Lynn Crane, Unalaska; Tim McDonough, Haines; Norman Blank, Haines; Kathleen Menke, Haines; Amy Reisland-Speer, Denali National Park SITKA, WRANGELL, PETERSBURG, HOMER, DILLINGHAM, CORDOVA: Ginger Fortin, Homer; Debbie Crocker, Homer; Patricia Boily, Homer; Jerry Scholand, Kiana B&B, Homer; Sharon Ryckman, Board Member, Haven House, Homer; Ron Bowers, Headstart, Dillingham; Eric Holland, Deputy Director, Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation (BBAHC), Behavioral Health Program, Dillingham; Linda Rabideau, Board Member, SAFE, Dillingham; Ginger Baim, Executive Director, SAFE, Dillingham; Jody Seitz, SAFE, Dillingham; Nicole Songer, Director, Cordova Family Resource Center, Cordova; Peg Blumer, Sitkan's Against Family Violence (SAFV), Sitka; David Berg, Viking Travel, Petersburg; Bob Howard, Alaska Charter Association, Homer; Julia Person, Board Member, Haven House, Homer; Angie Newby, Owner, Homer Real Estate, Homer; Donna Beran, Shelter Coordinator & Advocate, Haven House, Homer; Anne Maria Diola, University of Alaska Student, Homer; Carole Hamik, Whalesong B&B, Homer; Chris Bauman, Executive Director, Sitka Against Family Violence (SAFV), Sitka FAIRBANKS: Taber Rehbaum, Arctic Alliance; Lisa Sportleder, University of Alaska; Frank Turney; Paloma Harbour, Policy Analyst, University of Alaska; Pat Fox, Fox Statistical Study; Kim Jones, Director, Careline Crisis Intervention; Val Dewey; Brenda Stanfill, Executive Director, Center for Non-Violent Living; Rick Caulfield, Director University of Alaska- Fairbanks, Tanana Valley Campus; Victoria Foote, University of Alaska; Dana Platta, University of Alaska; Tamara De Los Santos; Jake Hamburg, Student, Student Body President, University of Alaska-Fairbanks; Lee Kenaston; Jeannette Grasto, Board Member, NAMI-Fairbanks; Lillian Ruedrich, Director, Interior Area Health Education, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital; Andy Harrington; Rena Bower, Program Coordinator, Dental Hygienist Program, University of Alaska-Fairbanks; Kate Sunwood, Instructor, University of Alaska-Fairbanks; Ann Marie Mattchione, President, Alaska Head Start Association; Ted Baker, Bed & Breakfast Owner; Mary Richards, B&B Association of Alaska; Erik Wyatt; Katrina Nunnemann, Program Director, Camp Fire USA, Fairbanks; Scott Reisland, Alaska Campground Association; Angela Falci McArdle; Shiva Hullavarad, Office of Electronics, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Fairbanks; Rose Marie Atkinson, Fairbanks; Lou Gross, Director, Fairbanks Senior Center, Fairbanks; Sheryl Kilgore, Executive Director, Interior Community Health Center, Fairbanks; Matt Atkinson, Air Arctic, Fairbanks; Deb Hickok, President & CEO, Fairbanks Convention & Visitors Bureau, Fairbanks; Mary Rutherford, President, University of Alaska Foundation, University of Alaska-Fairbanks SUMMARY HB 310 An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government, for certain programs, and to capitalize funds; making supplemental appropriations; and making appropriations under art. IX, sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska; and providing for an effective date. HB 310 was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further consideration. HB 312 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. HB 312 was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further consideration. HB 310-APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS HB 312-APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET Public Testimony The following portion was taken in log note format. Handouts will be on file with the House Finance Committee through the 25th Legislative Session, contact 465-6814. After the 25th Legislative Session they will be available through the Legislative Library at 465-3808.     KENAI, VALDEZ, KETCHIKAN, KODIAK,  SEWARD, MATSU, GLENALLEN, TOK   [NO AUDIO]  10:10:03 AM GREGORY Spoke in support for full funding to CARPENTER, Alaska Travel Industry Association of SEWARD the Governor's proposed $8 million WATERFRONT dollars for marketing and the $1 LODGING million dollar funding request for the independent grant.  10:12:17 AM DAVE PETERSON, Spoke in support for full funding to VALDEZ Alaska Travel Industry Association of VISITORS the Governor's proposed $8 million BUREAU dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:13:14 AM COLLEEN Spoke in support for full funding to STEPHENS, Alaska Travel Industry Association of VALDEZ the Governor's proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:15:56 AM JOHN DEVENS, Spoke in support for full funding to VALDEZ Alaska Travel Industry Association of the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:16:57 AM DAVE COBB, Spoke in support for full funding to DIRECTOR, Alaska Travel Industry Association of VALDEZ the Governor's proposed $8 million FISHERIES dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:18:11 AM STAN STEPHENS, Spoke in support for full funding to STAN STEPHENS Alaska Travel Industry Association of  CRUISES the Governor's proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for independent grants.  10:19:05 AM SANDRA WHITE, Spoke in support for full funding to TOURISM MAT-SU Alaska Travel Industry Association of the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant program.  10:21:55 AM JOHN LOOMIS, Spoke in support of the education Task TALKEETNA Force recommendations. He added comments regarding the needed funding for schools, which are the foundation of each community in particular full funding of the Mat-Su district schools.  10:22:55 AM MICHAEL Testified in support of funding for TUCKNESS, MAT-substance abuse prevention and SU treatment programs statewide.  10:24:49 AM CAROLYN DULL, Testified in support of full funding MAT-SU for behavior and mental health programs & encouraged full support for substance abuse prevention and treatment programs.  10:27:14 AM KIMBERLY Testified in support of funding for BAKER, MAT-SU substance abuse prevention and treatment programs adding comments of support for funding of the behavior and mental programs. She drew attention to the number of budget cuts over years to these types of programs.  10:29:57 AM KAREN NUGELOS, Testified in support of funding for NUGENS RANCH, behavior and mental health programs. MAT-SU She pointed out that Alaska has severe substance abuse issues that need to be addressed. She added support for greater funding of the substance abuse prevention and treatment programs.  10:32:19 AM MARK LACKEY, Addressed budget cuts for Head Start, EXECUTIVE pointing out that many of these DIRECTOR, children are the most under-served and CATHOLIC neediest children in community. Alaska COMMUNITY is one of 10 states with pre-K program. SERVICES (CCS) He stressed that children need to be LEARNING the State's priority, adding support of CENTER, MAT-SU the Governor's proposal for Head Start funding.  10:35:08 AM BONNIE QUILL, Spoke in support for full funding to EXECUTIVE Alaska Travel Industry Association of DIRECTOR OF the Governor's proposed $8 million MAT-SU VISITOR dollars for marketing and the $1 BUREAU, million dollars for the independent TOURISM, MAT-grant.  SU 10:36:14 AM RACHEL She pointed out that the Senior Grant  GREENBERG, program has not increased in many years PALMER SENIOR and that services are in desperate need SERVICES, MAT-and should be added to the budget.  SU 10:37:21 AM JAMES GARHART, Encouraged altering the budget with a MAT-SU new fiscal plan. He recommended better management of government money.  10:41:29 AM BARBARA Spoke for greater support for the WALTERS, women's shelters; community support INTERIM groups and emergency shelters. She DIRECTOR, LEE testified in support of the $407 SHORE CENTER, thousand dollar funding line item KENAI recommendation for early learning by the Governor's in her proposed budget.  10:44:04 AM RICHARD Testified in support of the $100 WARRINGTON, thousand dollar funding for Alaska ALASKA BRAIN Brain Injury programs.  INJURY AWARENESS NETWORK, KENAI 10:45:18 AM MICHELLE Spoke in support for full funding to GLAVES, Alaska Travel Industry Association of EXECUTIVE the Governor's proposed $8 million DIRECTOR, dollars for marketing and the $1 SOLDOTNA million dollars for the independent CHAMBER OF grant.  COMMERCE 10:46:20 AM BILLIE HARDY, Spoke in support for full funding to AK HARDY Alaska Travel Industry Association of ADVENTURES, the proposed $8 million dollars for SOLDOTNA marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:47:27 AM STEVE HORN, Voiced full support for Medicaid EXECUTIVE funding in the budget; adding support DIRECTOR, for continued funding of the behavior ALASKA and mental health programs. BEHAVIORAL  HEALTH ASSOCIATION, SOLDOTNA 10:48:42 AM SHANNON Spoke in support for full funding to HAMRICK, KENAI Alaska Travel Industry Association of PENINSULA the proposed $8 million dollars for TOURISM marketing and the Governor's proposed MARKETING $1 million dollars for the independent COUNCIL grant.  10:50:36 AM TODD PHILLIPS, Spoke in support for full funding to TRINKETS, Alaska Travel Industry Association of KETCHIKAN the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:51:30 AM DIANE NAAB, Spoke in support for full funding to OWNER, Alaska Travel Industry Association of  EXPLORATION the Governor's proposed $8 million GALLERY, dollars for marketing and the $1 KETCHIKAN million dollars for the independent grant.  10:52:17 AM ED ZASTROW, Spoke in support for full funding of CHAIRMAN, the State's Pioneer Homes.  PIONEER HOME ADVISORY BOARD 10:53:54 AM PATTI MACKEY, Spoke in support for full funding to EXECUTIVE Alaska Travel Industry Association of DIRECTOR, the proposed $8 million dollars for KETCHIKAN marketing and the $1 million dollars VISITORS for the independent grant.  BUREAU 10:56:09 AM ELENA RATH, Noted her work serving seniors with RENDEZVOUS DAY disabilities. She spoke in support of SERVICES, the Senior Grant services option. KETCHIKAN Ms. Rath added support of Brain Injury training programs.  10:57:47 AM KARI ERICKSON, Spoke in support for full funding to DISCOVER Alaska Travel Industry Association of ALASKA TOURS, the Governor's proposed $8 million KETCHIKAN dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  10:58:26 AM KEVIN GADSEY, Spoke in support of funding for the INDEPENDENT independent living community. He COORDINATOR, pointed out that the Mental Health SOUTHEAST Trust programs should remain fully ALASKA funded. He added his support for INDEPENDENT continued training programs for those LIVING (SAIL), suffering brain injuries. KETCHIKAN Mr. Gadsey indicated support for the $100 thousand dollar increment funding for Alaska Brain Injury programs.  11:00:57 AM PAT CHAPMAN, Indicated support for the trainings SOUTHEAST associated with brain injuries and ALASKA testified in support of the $100 INDEPENDENT thousand in funding for Alaska Brain LIVING (SAIL), Injury programs.  KETCHIKAN 11:02:42 AM JESSI CHAPMAN, Testified in support of the proposed SOUTHEAST $100 thousand dollar funding for Alaska ALASKA Brain Injury programs. Added support INDEPENDENT for full funding of substance abuse LIVING (SAIL), prevention and treatment programs.  KETCHIKAN 11:05:10 AM NAOMI Spoke for increased funding for MICHALSEN, domestic violence and sexual assault ACTING programs. She spoke also as individual DIRECTOR, survivor of domestic violence, showing WOMAN IN SAFE that success is possible with help. Ms. HOMES, Michalsen pointed out that all  KETCHIKAN operating costs are rising.  11:09:16 AM KATY HOPKINS, Spoke for increased funding for CHILDREN'S domestic violence and sexual assault DIRECTOR, programs, pointing out that the WOMAN IN SAFE children are at risk. HOMES, She hoped to find greater funding for KETCHIKAN prevention services. With any cuts, the programs and staff would be lost.  11:12:07 AM PAT JACOBSON, Teleconference fell offline.  UA BOARD OF REGENTS, KODIAK   11:13:51 AM  AT EASE  11:16:19 AM  RECONVENED    11:16:23 AM PAT JACOBSON, Spoke in support of full funding for UNIVERSITY OF the University. She indicated support ALASKA, BOARD for funding of climate change research OF REGENTS, on a national and State level. She KODIAK thanked the Legislature for the forthcoming support.  11:20:03 AM BARBARA Spoke in support of full funding for BOLSON, the University. She pointed out that DIRECTOR, students educated in Alaska often stay KODIAK in Alaska, supporting their COLLEGE, UAA, communities.  KODIAK 11:21:50 AM FLOSSIE Spoke in support for full funding for SPENCER, domestic violence and sexual assault KODIAK WOMEN'S done throughout the State.  RESOURCE & CRISIS CENTER, KODIAK 11:23:32 AM BARBARA BROWN, Spoke in support of full funding for KODIAK the University of Alaska.  COLLEGE, UAA 11:24:20 AM KATIE WALKER, Spoke in support of full funding for FACULTY, the University of Alaska.  KODIAK COLLEGE, UAA 11:24:56 AM COLLEEN Spoke in support for funding for work NEWMAN, KODIAK with domestic violence & sexual assault WOMEN'S victims and services helping men and RESOURCE & woman living in abusive relationships.  CRISIS CENTER, KODIAK 11:27:36 AM DEBRA JOHNSON Spoke in support of full funding for GRITMAN, the University of Alaska. She note the KODIAK statewide need for "high demand COLLEGE, UAA specialty" job training.  11:28:59 AM REBECCA Spoke in support for continued full  SHIELDS, assistance for victims of domestic KODIAK WOMAN'S violence and sexual assault. She added RESOURCE& a plea for continued funding and CRISIS CENTER education for suicide prevention and school education against domestic violence.  11:31:42 AM JANET Spoke in support for full funding to BUCKINGHAM, Alaska Travel Industry Association of KODIAK ISLAND the Governor's proposed $8 million CONVENTION & dollars for marketing and the $1 VISITORS million dollars for the independent BUREAU, KODIAK grant.  11:32:44 AM KAREN LAMBERT, Spoke in support for renewed funding ALASKA LEGAL for Alaska Legal Services. The program SERVICES, assists the low income claimants KODIAK receive representation in court.  11:34:57 AM BRIAN CAMERON, Spoke in support for full funding to CHOWDER HOUSE Alaska Travel Industry Association of RESTAURANT/PRIthe Governor's proposed $8 million VATE CHARTER. dollars for marketing and the $1 KODIAK million dollars for the independent grant.  11:35:58 AM TIM CARLSON, Spoke in support for full funding to LARSEN BAY Alaska Travel Industry Association of LODGE, LARSEN the proposed $8 million dollars for BAY marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  11:36:22 AM CINDY Spoke in support of the Governor's HARRINGTON, proposal for Head Start funding and for KODIAK early childhood education.  11:40:32 AM MARY NELSON, Spoke in support for full funding to CRUISE LINE Alaska Travel Industry Association of AGENCIES, the Governor's proposed $8 million SEWARD dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  11:42:05 AM ALAN LEMASTER, Echoed support for full funding to SALMON Alaska Travel Industry Association of CHARTERS, the Governor's proposed $8 million GLENALLEN dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.    11:44:27 AM AT EASE  11:52:58 AM RECONVENED    [AUDIO RESUMED]  BETHEL, KOTZEBUE, BARROW, NOME, DELTA  JUNCTION, OFF NETS  11:53:15 AM RICHARD Spoke in support for full funding to BENEVILLE, Alaska Travel Industry Association of NOME DISCOVERY the Governor's proposed $8 million TOURS dollars for marketing and the $1  million dollars for the independent grant.  11:55:02 AM BARBARA LIPPE, Noted support for statewide services AWIC, BARROW against domestic violence & sexual assault funding. She pointed out that the Arctic Women in Crisis is open 24/7, offering year-round support for the community.  11:58:06 AM LOUISA RILEY, Spoke in support of Domestic Violence & BOARD MEMBER, Sexual Assault funding.  AWIC, BARROW 12:02:12 PM VIRGINIA Spoke in support of Domestic Violence & WALSH, AWIC, Sexual Assault funding.  BARROW 12:05:09 PM DICK WENGER, Spoke in support for full funding to RIKA'S Alaska Travel Industry Association of ROADHOUSE, the proposed $8 million dollars for DELTA JUNCTION marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  12:08:36 PM KARIN Spoke in support of funding for SEIBENMORGEN, domestic violence and sexual assault TUNDRA programs around the State. She pointed WOMENS'S out that their shelter provides 60% of COALITION their funding. She addressed the increased fuel costs.   12:10:10 PM KAELA GESCHKE, Spoke in support of funding for TUNDRA WOMEN'S domestic violence and sexual assault COALITION programs. The agency additionally provides for homelessness issues as well as a suicide hotline.   12:11:56 PM CHELSEA Spoke in support of funding for GULLING, domestic violence and sexual assault TUNDRA WOMEN'S programs. She shared a story COALITION exemplifying the importance and need of the shelter.  12:14:44 PM LAURINDA In support of University programs for OBRIEN, YUKON the health care work force. She KUSKOKWIM pointed out that twenty-four of the top HEALTH CENTER hundred jobs in this State are in the (YKHC) health care field.  12:16:59 PM LYNN CRANE, Spoke in support of the Governor's UNALASKA increase funding for domestic violence and sexual assault programs. She provided examples of how the shelter in Unalaska serves the community. There are only 3 employees; the costs continue to increase due to fuel costs increases.  12:19:56 PM TIM MCDONOUGH, Spoke in support of $80 thousand HAINES dollars funding request for parks. The parks have continual issues determining  who is responsible for addressing bear issues.  12:21:47 PM NORMAN BLANK, Spoke in support of $80 thousand dollar HAINES funding increment for statewide parks to assist with address bear issues.  12:22:51 PM KATHLEEN Indicated support for full funding for MENKE, HAINES ferries throughout the State. She requested the Committee consider it as an investment in tourism. She expressed a concern for the emphasis on supporting hatcheries and felt funding should go to restoration. She added concern regarding community issues getting properly vetted; suggesting there be some sort of proof of community support. She mentioned the issues of Chilkat, noting the lack of community meeting.  12:26:48 PM AMY REISLAND-Spoke in support for full funding to SPEER, DENALI Alaska Travel Industry Association of NATIONAL PARK the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.    rd 12:30:58 PM RECESS February 23, 2008  rd 2:03:32 PM RECONVENED February 23, 2008    SITKA, WRANGELL, PETERSBURG, HOMER,  DILLINGHAM, CORDOVA  2:04:12 PM GINGER FORTIN, Voiced concerns with funding proposed HOMER for the Alaska Marine Highway System.  2:05:29 PM DEBBIE Echoed comments made by the previous CROCKER, HOMER speaker, Ms. Fortin.  2:06:00 PM PATRICIA Commented on concerns regarding health BOILY, HOMER care expenses and her own uninsured situation. She pointed out that a State having such wealth should be insuring their citizens. She stated that hard working Alaskans [17% uninsured] are being driven into medical travesty.  2:08:36 PM JERRY Spoke in support for full funding to SCHOLAND, Alaska Travel Industry Association of KIANA B&B, the Governor's proposed $8 million HOMER dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  2:10:42 PM SHARON Testified for greater funding for RYCKMAN, BOARD substance abuse and treatment programs MEMBER, HAVEN statewide. She urged that the HOUSE, HOMER Legislature provide greater funding for domestic violence and sexual assault  victims.  2:13:38 PM RON BOWERS, Spoke in support of the Governor's HEADSTART, proposed budget for Head Start funding.  DILLINGHAM 2:13:59 PM ERIC HOLLAND, Voiced support for all suicide DEPUTY prevention programs as proposed in the DIRECTOR, Governor's budget. He stated that the BRISTOL BAY proposed budget submitted by the AREA HEALTH Governor provides optimism, however, CORPORATION the Legislature slashed that hope. He (BBAHC), testified in support of greater funding BEHAVIORAL for substance abuse prevention and HEALTH, treatment programs.  DILLINGHAM 2:16:07 PM LINDA Voiced support for direct services to RABIDEAU, individuals. She testified in support BOARD MEMBER, of funding for behavior and mental SAFE, health programs.  DILLINGHAM 2:19:18 PM GINGER BAIM, Spoke in strong support of funding for EXECUTIVE domestic violence and sexual assault DIRECTOR, programs. She urged that the SAFE, Legislature meet the proposed DILLINGHAM Governor's increment.  2:21:46 PM JODY SEITZ, Spoke in support of greater funding for SAFE, domestic violence and sexual assault DILLINGHAM programs. She urged that the proposal submitted by the Governor be doubled.  2:25:29 PM NICOLE SONGER, Encouraged support of funding for DIRECTOR, domestic violence and sexual assault CORDOVA FAMILY programs as recommended by the RESOURCE Governor. She stressed that costs for CENTER, doing business have increased CORDOVA dramatically across Alaska.  2:28:33 PM PEG BLUMER, Testified in support of greater funding SITKAN'S for domestic violence and sexual AGAINST FAMILY assault programs. She pointed out the VIOLENCE number of services are provided to (SAFV), SITKA those victims.  2:30:06 PM DAVID BERG, Spoke in support for full funding to VIKING TRAVEL, Alaska Travel Industry Association of PETERSBURG the Governor's proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  2:31:43 PM BOB HOWARD, Spoke in support for full funding to PRESIDENT, Alaska Travel Industry Association of ALASKA CHARTER the proposed $8 million dollars for ASSOCIATION, marketing and the $1 million dollars HOMER for the independent grant.  2:33:39 PM JULIA PERSON, Spoke in support of greater funding for BOARD MEMBER, domestic violence and sexual assault HAVEN HOUSE, programs statewide. She stressed that  HOMER the community-based shelters are constantly busy and that it is an important need throughout the communities, which matters. She urged that the Governor's proposed increase be honored.  2:35:21 PM ANGIE NEWBY, Spoke in support for full funding to OWNER, HOMER Alaska Travel Industry Association of REAL ESTATE, the proposed $8 million dollars for HOMER marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  2:37:43 PM DONNA BERAN, Begged support for greater funding for SHELTER domestic violence and sexual assault COORDINATOR programs statewide. The Alaskan needs ADVOCATE, continue to rise, while funding HAVEN HOUSE, continues to decrease.  HOMER 2:40:20 PM ANNE MARIA Spoke in support of full funding for DIOLA, the University.  UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA STUDENT, HOMER 2:41:15 PM CAROLE HAMIK, Spoke in support for full funding to WHALESONG B&B, Alaska Travel Industry Association of HOMER the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  2:43:15 PM CHRIS BAUMAN, Spoke in support of funding for EXECUTIVE domestic violence and sexual assault DIRECTOR, programs. She urged that the proposed SITKA AGAINST increment submitted by the Governor be FAMILY honored.  VIOLENCE (SAFV), SITKA 2:45:17 PM BETH LANDO, Spoke in support of full funding for STUDENT, the University. UNIVERSITY OF She urged that there be more in depth ALASKA, conversions regarding the health care ANCHORAGE crisis state & nation wide.    2:48:01 PM RECESSED  3:36:58 PM RECONVENED     FAIRBANKS  3:37:04 PM TABER REHBAUM, Urged support for increasing the human ARCTIC services funds & budget in the amount ALLIANCE of $3 million dollars. The funds are distributed to non profits and serve more than 34,000 people.  3:38:54 PM LISA Spoke in support of maintaining funds SPORTLEDER, for education, especially the UNIVERSITY OF University step increases. She urged  ALASKA the Legislature to restore the University's funding to Governor's proposed level.  3:41:32 PM FRANK TURNEY Testified in support of funding for behavior and mental health programs statewide especially for those in prison.  3:43:31 PM PALOMA Spoke in support of full funding for HARBOUR, the University.  POLICY ANALYST, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA 3:44:36 PM PAT FOX, FOX Testified in support of funding for STATISTICAL behavior and mental health programs. STUDY She added testimony in support of funding for substance abuse prevention and treatment programs. Ms. Fox requested greater support for funding of domestic violence and sexual assault programs.  3:47:07 PM KIM JONES, Pointed out that their suicide line DIRECTOR, receives 4,000 calls each year for CARELINE suicide prevention. Alaska leads the CRISIS nation in deaths by suicide, especially INTERVENTION youth suicide deaths. She added her support of funding for behavior and mental health programs.  3:48:58 PM VAL DEWEY Testified in support of funding for behavior and mental health programs. She encouraged wrap-around services and dual-diagnosis treatment be put into action.  3:52:58 PM BRENDA Spoke in support of funding for STANFILL, domestic violence and sexual assault EXECUTIVE programs. She noted that her agency has DIRECTOR, lost five full-time positions because CENTER FOR of cuts and that they serve 973 women NON-VIOLENT and children and 300 men.  LIVING 3:56:20 PM RICK Spoke in support of full funding for CAULFIELD, the University. He pointed out that DIRECTOR UAF over 60% of Alaska's jobs require TANANA VALLEY certificates and training which can not CAMPUS be handled without adequate funding.  3:58:21 PM VICTORIA Spoke in support of full funding for FOOTE, the University which is the largest UNIVERSITY OF trainer statewide for Alaska hire ALASKA positions. She added support of funding for behavior and mental programs. Ms. Foote noted that the Legislature should supports human services matching  health grant.  4:00:58 PM DANA PLATTA, Spoke in support of full funding for UNIVERSITY OF the University especially supporting ALASKA climate change research.  4:02:33 PM TAMARA DE LOS Spoke in support of the education Task SANTOS Force recommendations. She urged support of the Governor's proposal for Head Start funding.  4:05:20 PM JAKE HAMBURG, Spoke in support of full funding for STUDENT, the University.  STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT, UAF 4:08:33 PM LEE KENASTON Spoke in support of funding to the Alaska Travel Industry Association request amount of $8 million for Alaska tourism marketing and a $1 million dollar independent grant.  4:09:41 PM JEANNETTE Testified in support of funding for GRASTO, BOARD behavior and mental health programs. MEMBER, NAMI-She added support of the suicide FAIRBANKS prevention initiative, especially related to youth.  4:12:52 PM LILLIAN Spoke in support of full funding for RUEDRICH, the University. She noted how the DIRECTOR, University works with the new health INTERIOR AREA care business and education programs. HEALTH The focus is on health care work force EDUCATION, development. The School of Nursing FAIRBANKS dollars have decreased.  MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 4:15:08 PM ANDY Addressed concerns with funding within HARRINGTON the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. The Department should receive dollar for civil legal aid. He added recommendations to the Department of Health and Social Services Human Services matching grants renewal; more is needed for rural and urban matching grant programs.  4:17:22 PM RENA BOWER, Spoke in support of full funding for PROGRAM the University, especially the dental COORDINATOR, hygienist program. The Tanana Valley DENTAL HYGIENE location allows the Bush communities PROGRAM, UAF have their students use the services and study.  4:19:43 PM KATE SUNWOOD, Spoke in support of full funding for INSTRUCTOR, the University of Alaska, especially UAF the step increases for the teaching staff. Teachers are not able to pay their fuel cost bills on the current salaries.  4:21:26 PM ANN MARIE Spoke in support of the Governor's MATTCHIONE, proposal for Head Start funding. She PRESIDENT, testified in support of the $470 ALASKA HEAD thousand dollars funding line item START recommendation for early learning ASSOCIATION funding requested in the Governor's proposed budget.  4:25:28 PM TED BAKER, BED Spoke in support for full funding to & BREAKFAST Alaska Travel Industry Association of BUSINESS the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  4:26:42 PM MARY RICHARDS, Spoke in support for full funding to B&B OWNER, B&B Alaska Travel Industry Association of ASSOCIATION OF the proposed $8 million dollars for ALASKA marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  4:28:10 PM ERIK WYATT Pointed out that his family is one of the waitlisted families for the Head Start program. Some of those schools have closed. He encouraged support of the Governor's proposal for the Head Start funding. He added support of the $470 thousand dollars funding line item recommendation for early learning funding requested in the Governor's proposed budget.  4:29:12 PM KATRINA Spoke in support of the Governor's NUNNEMANN, proposal for Head Start funding. She PROGRAM indicated her support of childcare DIRECTOR, funding. CAMPFIRE USA, She added testimony in support of human FAIRBANKS services matching grant.  4:30:54 PM SCOTT Pointed out that he represents an REISLAND, association with over 85 campgrounds. ALASKA These small businesses cannot market on CAMPGROUND their own. He spoke in support of ASSOCIATION funding to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, $8 million for Alaska tourism marketing and a $1 million dollar independent grant.  4:32:36 PM ANGELA FALCI Testified in support of funding for MCARDLE behavior and mental health programs.  4:33:47 PM SHIVA Spoke in support of full funding for HULLAVARAD, the University.  OFFICE OF ELECTRONICS, UAF, FAIRBANKS 4:35:30 PM ROSE MARIE Spoke in support for full funding to ATKINSON, Alaska Travel Industry Association of FAIRBANKS the proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars  for the independent grant.  4:36:10 PM LOU GROSS, Spoke in support for greater funding DIRECTOR, for senior services and the Pioneer FAIRBANKS Homes statewide.  SENIOR CENTER, FAIRBANKS 4:40:16 PM SHERYL Testified in support of funding for KILGORE, behavior and mental programs. She EXECUTIVE noted that costs are increasing, while DIRECTOR, revenue is declining. She urged INTERIOR further funding for local grant blocks, COMMUNITY State grant funding for community HEALTH CENTER, health centers & increased Medicaid to FAIRBANKS a 200% poverty level.  4:42:06 PM MATT ATKINSON, Spoke in support for full funding to AIR ARCTIC, Alaska Travel Industry Association of FAIRBNAKS the Governor's proposed $8 million dollars for marketing and the $1 million dollars for the independent grant.  4:44:24 PM DEB HICKOK, Spoke in support for full funding to PRESIDENT & Alaska Travel Industry Association of CEO, FAIRBANKS the Governor's proposed $8 million CONVENTION & dollars for marketing and the $1 VISITORS million dollars for the independent BUREAU, grant.  FAIRBANKS 4:45:58 PM MARY Spoke in support of full funding for RUTHERFORD, the University. The State is in PRESIDENT OF critical need for specific jobs that THE UNIVERSITY are trained within the University OF ALASKA system. The University should be FOUNDATION, treated the same as other agencies in UNIVERSITY OF the budget.  ALASKA, FAIRBANKS 4:48:44 PM Representative Explained that two constituents of his, Hawker Elisa and Ted Eller were not able to testify because of technical problems, but had submitted an emailed testimony regarding behavioral health issue concerns statewide.  4:50:06 PM ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 4:49 P.M.