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.
Murkowski now supports a ‘complete exemption’ for Tongass from Roadless Rule
A decision by the Trump administration over exempting the Tongass National Forest from the Roadless Rule is expected soon. That’s according to Sen. Lisa Murkowski who in an interview with CoastAlaska has hardened her stance on the hot-button issue.
Governor axes state funding for Cold Climate Housing Research Center
It's unclear how the center can continue to operate without state funds, but its staff of 18 continue to look for ways to do their work.
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.
Skiff capsizes from ferry Columbia’s wake in Wrangell Narrows
A wake from the Alaska state ferry Columbia caused a small skiff to capsize in the Wrangell Narrows near Petersburg.
Dunleavy halves vetoes to University of Alaska, spreads cuts over three years
The University of Alaska will see a $25 million cut in funding for this budget year, which began on July 1st. The next two years would see cuts of $25 million and $20 million for a total of $70 million.
Dunleavy agrees to fully restore $9M in funding to Head Start, early learning programs
The restoration totals about $9 million and includes $6.8 million to Head Start and $1.2 million to early childhood grants. It's one of several veto reversals the governor has made 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.
Enviros say new rules weaken Endangered Species Act. Interior says they enhance it.
The Interior Department announced Monday that it has finalized new rules for carrying out the Endangered Species Act. Sec. David Bernhardt describes the changes as improvements. Environmental groups say the new regulations weaken the Endangered Species Act.
Dunleavy reverses potential cuts to senior benefits
Dunleavy told a room of people he was moved to change course on the Senior Benefits Program after hearing input from beneficiaries and their families.
Capital budget vetoes to hit homelessness, addiction treatment
In Anchorage, there are worries that vetoes to addiction treatment facilities and a homeless assistance program could exacerbate a problem that's already worsening.
Human Rights Commission quietly fires director
The Alaska State Commission for Human Rights has confirmed firing its executive director in July, after she had been on the job for less than a month, but the commission continues to say little about it.
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.
Russian nuclear power plant afloat in Arctic causes anxiety across Bering Strait
Russia has produced the world's first floating nuclear power plant. A barge mounted with nuclear reactors is expected to begin traversing the Arctic this month, bound for the Chukotka Peninsula. Across the Bering Strait, Alaskans are worried about radiation, though one Arctic security expert also sees room for optimism.
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.
Under ‘Save Our State’ banner, more than 25 organizations implore Dunleavy: No more vetoes
A coalition of more than 25 organizations gathered for a press conference Wednesday in Anchorage under the moniker, Save Our State. Their single message for Governor Mike Dunleavy: no more vetoes.
New Izembek land swap? New lawsuit, too.
The Wilderness Society and eight other environmental groups have filed a new lawsuit to block a road in the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge. For nearby King Cove, it's the latest in a long series of legal and political hurdles, dating back decades.
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.
International Joint Commission launches ‘fact-finding mission’ into B.C. transboundary mining
Alaska’s U.S. Senators hosted members of an international commission charged with investigating transboundary water disputes.
“This has long been a priority — it’s fair to...
Petersburg ferry workers speak out on budget cuts
The ferry union strike might be over but some Petersburg ferry workers are still concerned about the state cuts to the Alaska Marine Highway System and other services.