Legislators stand by forward funding of schools as Dunleavy administration ramps up threats
If legislators won’t surrender on education funding, the governor’s threatening to withhold school funding until a hypothetical lawsuit is resolved.
senate finance
Senators say Dunleavy’s proposed Medicaid cuts are unrealistic ‘flim-flam’
The governor has proposed aggressive cuts to Medicaid, but when much of the proposed cuts rely on federal approval senators argue only a small fraction is actually achievable this year.
ISER economist warns deep budget cuts could extend recession, potentially spread to housing market
The current recession didn’t cause particularly significant outmigration or a particularly big impacts to the housing market. That could change if the recession continues, particularly if job losses are felt by residents.
Will commissioners meet with legislators on Dunleavy’s budget? They’ll need to get permission first
Department of Administration Commissioner Kelly Tshibaka said she was unsure if she would be able to meet with legislators to talk about the budget.
Education Commissioner Johnson refuses to take a position on school vouchers
Johnson said constitutional amendments should go to a vote of the people, which is how the process already works.
Dunleavy’s budget director claims schools were wrong to count on $20 million approved by the Legislature
It reveals a grave misunderstanding of how Alaska’s budget process works.
Dunleavy appointee John Quick’s credibility crumbles after simple reference check with old boss
A second report also calls into question his claims of receiving an MBA.
Dunleavy’s promise of a simplified budget should raise red flags for legislators
Sen. Stedman had to remind the administration that the Legislature is an equal branch of government and won’t stand for “dictatorial control” of Alaska’s financial information.
Wielechowski will be first urban Democrat on powerful Senate Finance Committee since ’12 elections
Wielechowski’s caused Senate Republicans plenty of headaches in recent years.
Senate Republicans expand Finance Committee to nine, diminishing power of minority Democrats
Minority Democrats won’t get an extra seat in the expansion, but the committee’s membership could still make for must-watch Gavel coverage.