Andrew Kitchenman, Alaska Public Media & KTOO - Juneau
Andrew Kitchenman is the state government and politics reporter for Alaska Public Media and KTOO in Juneau. Reach him at akitchenman@alaskapublic.org.
Senate Republicans reject Dunleavy’s pick to fill vacant seat
The Anchorage Senate seat became vacant in August when Sen. Chris Birch died suddenly from heart complications
Alaska attorney general sues to limit union dues
The lawsuit filed in Superior Court in Anchorage also seeks to limit union dues to workers unless the state has “clear and compelling evidence” that they consent to the dues.
Donna Arduin out as Dunleavy budget director
Ben Stevens, Gov. Mike Dunleavy's chief of staff, said Arduin will be offered a contract to continue working as an adviser,
Budget cuts rely on Medicaid savings that will be difficult to achieve
Once a state makes someone eligible for Medicaid, they’re entitled to receive health care — and their provider is entitled to be paid.
Initiative would increase state oil taxes, eliminate tax credits
Oil industry representatives say the initiative would hurt the industry.
Governor signs $1,600 PFD, says third special session would focus on full dividend
For the second time, Dunleavy vetoed funding to reimburse municipalities for school construction debt and to pay for Medicaid.
Group seeking Dunleavy recall isn’t stopping at minimum as it continues to gather signatures
A Recall Dunleavy organizer says the campaign isn’t slowing down after the veto reversals.
Dunleavy points to university budget cut agreement as a model
Nonprofit leaders have said they’re open to working with the governor. But it’s unclear how the approach will work in practice.
Dunleavy cites public response in veto reversals
Gov. Mike Dunleavy hasn’t wavered from many of his positions since taking office. But that changed this week.
Alaska Natives pushing against budget cuts say the state can learn from their cultures
One village leader said the cultures and traditions of Alaska Natives have prepared them to respond to the cuts.
Dunleavy decision on PFD could affect timing of dividend payment
If Gov. Mike Dunleavy vetoes the $1,600 PFD the Legislature passed, Alaskans could receive dividends later than normal this year.
Anchorage senator Chris Birch dies of heart attack
Senate Majority Communications Director Daniel McDonald says Birch suffered a heart attack. He says Birch died Wednesday.
Bill setting PFDs, reversing vetoes headed to Dunleavy on Wednesday, spokesperson says
If Dunleavy receives the bill on Wednesday, he would have until Aug. 30 to sign it, veto it or issue line-item vetoes.
Confused about Alaska’s budget? You’re not alone. Here are 10 things to know.
Between budgets passing and parts being vetoed, the reverse sweep and a divided Legislature, it can be a confusing time. But there are some essential facts that may be helpful to keep in mind.
Gov. Dunleavy chooses new chief of staff, Babcock moved to policy advisor
Tuckerman Babcock stepped down to become a senior policy advisor. And former Senate President Ben Stevens will be the new chief of staff.
Legislature passes capital budget funding, $1,600 PFD, veto reversals
The Alaska Legislature passed two major bills on Monday. One would fund the capital budget. Gov. Mike Dunleavy said he’s glad it passed.
Senate Finance Committee sends $3,000 PFD to floor vote
Supporters of a full dividend have said the state should follow the formula in a 1982 law, while opponents have said the full amount would put the future of the earnings reserve and dividends at risk.
Alaska House absences draw attention
Any of four absent members could have changed the outcome of a vote to fund the capital budget this week.
Moody’s sees negative outlook for Alaska’s credit rating
If the state’s credit rating were to be downgraded, it would raise the interest rate for the government to borrow money.
Dunleavy says budget vetoes weren’t too aggressive
In a call with reporters, Dunleavy also said Alaskans will want half of whatever earnings the state spends each year. He directed that message at legislators interested in changing the PFD formula.