By Sentinel Staff
As the regular session of the Alaska Legislature came to a close with no decisions reached on the state operating budget, the Permanent Fund dividend and an overhaul of the state criminal code, leaders in both houses issued statements Wednesday on Gov. Dunleavy’s announcement that he will call a special session.
“The Legislature is considering proposals that will determine whether the Permanent Fund actually remains permanent,” House Speaker Bryce Edgmon (I-Dillingham) said in a news release. “We are vetting a massive overhaul of our criminal justice system. The proposed budget could fundamentally change Alaska’s economy. The decisions we face are simply too important to rush. We have worked hard to achieve meaningful compromise, and we are committed to continuing our work to get these monumental decisions right for Alaska.”
Senate President Cathy Giessel (R-Anchorage) issued the following statement:
“The Senate passed an operating budget with significant cuts, fully-funded the PFD, and toughened the state’s criminal code by repealing and replacing Senate Bill 91. We are committed to working with our colleagues in the House, and the governor, in seeing these critical policy changes through to the end. We will not rest until the people of Alaska have safe neighborhoods, a healthy economy and the Permanent Fund is protected for future generations.”
Senate Democratic Leader Tom Begich (D-Anchorage) said:
“We are disappointed that the Governor is issuing this call before we have completed our work. It is the responsibility of the Legislative leadership in the House and the Senate to pass a budget, address crime and safety, and resolve the dividend. The Senate Democrats have worked with our colleagues to resolve these issues before the end of the constitutional session limit. We expect them to be resolved and will continue to work towards the end. It is what all Alaskans expect of us. We are doing our part.”
