Conservation Watch #17 2/02/2010
Week three of the 90-day legislative session. Energy is the talk of the town with lots of opportunity in the coming weeks for progress on clean energy. Let's get going...
In This Issue
Inside the House Energy Omnibus Bills
Week three of the 90-day legislative session. Energy is the talk of the town with lots of opportunity in the coming weeks for progress on clean energy. Let's get going...
Inside the House Energy Omnibus Bills
Two new energy bills from the House Energy Committee show the fruits of a commitment to long-term energy planning.
After a summer spent learning the energy needs, concerns
and opportunities of Alaskans at town-hall style meetings and stakeholder advisory meetings around the state, the Committee recently released HB305: the Energy Omnibus Bill and HB306: State Energy Policy.
As a member of the stakeholder advisory group that worked on this bill, Caitlin Higgins, Executive Director of Alaska Conservation Voters and Alaska Conservation Alliance, had a hand in shaping the House energy bills, although the final language was unknown until released in the first week of the session.
Together the bills tackle energy topics as diverse as fish oil and nuclear fission. While we are very excited by the inclusion of Emerging Energy Technology, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy incentives, the bills also incentivize coal and remove restrictions on the transportation of nuclear waste.
HB305
The House's Energy Omnibus Bill is built from nine bills that were introduced last year.
- HB 148 - Energy Efficiency Standards for Public Buildings
- HB 191 - Nuclear Power Production
- HB 196 - Alternative Energy Revolving Loan Fund
- HB 218 - State Dept of Energy
- HB 219 - Renewable Energy Grant Requirements
- SB 31 - Renewable Energy Tax Credits
- SB 71 - Alternative Energy Systems for Public Works
- SB 121 - Energy Efficiency Standards for Public Buildings
- SB 150 - Emerging Energy Technology Fund
While we are pleased to see two of ACV's Environmental Priorities included, SB 121 and SB 150 we are keeping track of other portions of HB305, such as nuclear power production and references to coal, that we need to look at closer.
House Bill 305 was referred to the Energy and Finance Committees. It was presented, by the sponsors, discussed and held January 26 at 3:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124.
HB306
Two good changes were adopted during last week's committee hearings on HB306.
One supports the creation of instate job opportunities while the other calls for Alaska to remain a leader in petroleum/ natural gas production and become a leader in renewable energy development. Another amendment regarding public transportation was withdrawn following discussion. Many felt this provision tended to favor urban interests and didn’t have a place in this statewide policy legislation.
Finally, a provision regarding fuel and electricity prices also was dropped because it was unworkable. A fourth amendment wasn’t ready for consideration but is likely to come up next time the committee meets on the bill.
Sixteen Alaskans participated in The House Energy Stakeholders Group including Caitin Higgins, Executive Director of Alaska Conservation Voters and Alaska Conservation Alliance; Gwen Holdmann, Alaska Center for Energy & Power; Robert Venables, Southeast Conference; Scott Goldsmith, ISER; Jason Brune, Resource Development Council; John Davies, Alaska Cold Climate Housing Research Center; Ralph Anderson, Bristol Bay Native Association; Bill Popp, Anchorage Economic Development Council; Bob Pawlowski, Denali Commission; Denali Daniels, Denali Commission; Stacy Schubert, Municipality of Anchorage; Kathie Wasserman, Alaska Municipal League; Marilyn Leland, Alaska Power Authority; Meera Kohler, Alaska Village Electric Cooperative; Ron Miller, Energy Consultant; Chris Rose, Renewable Energy Alaska Project
The House Energy Committee states that HB 306 has five core fundamental principles:
- Energy efficiency and conservation
- Development of renewable and non-renewable energy resources
- Economic development through cost-effective, long-term sources of energy for communities statewide
- Energy research, education, and workforce development
- Coordination of governmental functions, streamlining of regulatory processes and overall coordination of efforts by all levels of government
If passed, the state energy policy will continue to put Alaska
on an economically viable, sustainable, stable energy path to the future - a fundamental and much needed vision the conservation community has encouraged for a number of years.
HB 306 was referred to (H) ENE and (H) RES. Overall the energy policy is a good bill. However, there are references to nuclear and coal power that need to be carefully examined.
The energy policy bill was first heard in (H) ENE on Tuesday, January 26 at 3:00 PM in Barnes rm 124 It was heard again on Thursday, January 28 at 3:00 PM in Barnes 124 for public testimony and amendments.
Legislative Potpourri
Wood Pellets a hot topic at (H) Resources Lunch and Learn
The House Resources Committee heard a presentation this afternoon from Sealaska - Southeast’s Regional Native Corporation - and Ventek Energy Systems regarding the introduction of wood pellet energy to Southeast Alaska. Touted as both “carbon neutral” and “sustainable” due to forest regeneration capabilities, wood pellets have been a major source of energy in Europe where technology has been advancing rapidly with widespread acceptance of Kyoto guidelines.
Here at home, Sealaska has announced their intention to convert their corporate headquarters in Juneau to a bioenergy wood pellet boiler system. The project will be the first of its kind in Alaska, and both Sealaska and Ventek expressed hope that this would be the first step in a large shift toward a more pellet heavy energy economy. They cited positive environmental effects, energy cost savings of 30-50%, and the creation of local jobs as the most striking benefits of the changeover, and pointed at the huge growth potential demonstrated in Europe and Canada.
House Finance Hears Overview on Endangered Species Act
The House Finance Committee last week heard testimony 
regarding the Endangered Species Act. Alaska’s Attorney General and representatives from the North Slope Borough and the Municipality of Anchorage gave committee members and a small public audience an impassioned report on the latest trends within the ESA, some of their effects on life here in Alaska, and possible responses from the Alaskan people and the state government.
Attorney General Dan Sullivan began the meeting with a scathing report accusing environmental groups and the federal government of intruding in state issues with blatant disregard for Alaska’s economy, and warning of a coming deluge of unjustifiable ESA filings based on climate change projections. He proposed $1 million to hire lawyers to assist in the fight against these proposals and others the state is already battling.
Representatives from the North Slope Borough and Anchorage then gave testimony regarding their specific experiences with ESA regarding the listing of the polar bear up north and the beluga whale in Cook Inlet. Both focused on the what they feel are overestimated yet ineffective critical habitats proposed by the federal government, and how they have and could in the future negatively affect local livelihood while failing to remedy these species issues or having positive impact on their recovery.
The tone throughout the meeting was defiant toward environmentalist organizations and the federal government, painting them as out of touch with the conditions on the ground in Alaska. Although each testifier spoke positively regarding species diversity, they shared a common theme of minimizing the environmental concerns.
From the Blog
February 1, 2010
3:46 PM – HJR 40 Opposes Critical Habitat Designation
Representative Charisse Millett last week released a resolution (HJR 40) opposing the proposed designation of critical habitat for the endangered beluga whale by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The NMFS proposal aims to protect 3,000 square miles of Cook Inlet to protect the beluga whale listed as an endangered species in 2008.
Representative Millet claimed in a press release this week that, "the only thing a critical habitat designation will accomplish is to harm the region's economy." The resolution cites evidence that the decimation of the beluga population was caused solely by unsustainable harvest and states that, "the conservation benefits, which are entirely uncertain and speculative, are outweighed by the costs and impediments posed by designation of critical habitat."
The resolution was co-sponsored Reps Mark Neuman, Bob Lynn, Craig Johnson, Wes Keller and Carl Gatto, and is supported by Governor Parnell and the entire Alaskan congressional delegation. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the various national and state offices including that of President Obama. Support for the resolution seems strong in the House where it was referred only to the Resources Committee, but its reception in the Senate with its bi-partisan majority remains to be seen.
January 28, 2010
2:41 PM -- Great Turnout at SB 220 Hearing Yesterday
The Senate Resources Committee took public testimony on SB 220, the Alaska Sustainable Energy Act, yesterday. Thirty-one people testified, all in support of the bill. Testifiers included individuals from the Alaska Municipal League, Southeast Conference, Sealaska Corporation, the Alaska Ratepayers Association, the Cascadia Green Building Council, the Alaska State Home Builders Association, and the Alaska Sealife Center, among other organizations.
We also heard from several Alaskan energy entrepreneurs interested in the Emerging Technology Fund. Many of these entrepreneurs suggested that the state encourage the sharing of data on emerging technologies, so "we can all grow together."
The response from Senators on the committee, audience members at the hearing, and legislative staff appeared quite positive.
The Alaska Conservation Voters and its sister organization the Alaska Conservation Alliance helped organize testifiers and we're pleased with the result. As one person testified last night "It's great to hear all these engaged, intelligent voices and know that these people live in Alaska and are helping shape our future."
10:50 AM -- Visit Juneau during the Legislative Session
I’m just a bill. A bill on (Juneau’s) Capitol Hill. Ok, I’ve modified the song just a bit, but most of us probably remember this Schoolhouse Rock ditty, learning about the process for a bill to become law. But, have you ever been to Juneau and witnessed the process in action? Have you ever sat in on a committee hearing and watched the interplay between committee members and observed the rules of conduct? Have you ever scheduled a meeting with your state senator to advocate on issues that matter to you and your neighborhood? Or had your state representative introduce you on the floor?
It’s a powerful experience, and one that I recommend for every Alaskan.
That’s where Alaska Conservation Voters can help. Our legislative Fly-In brings motivated individuals down to Juneau for three days to learn about the legislative process, get up to speed on hot-topic energy legislation (like renewable energy and energy efficiency), and finally, meet with your legislators and advocate on this legislation. You can learn more about our energy priorities on this Web site.
So if renewable energy and energy efficiency issues are important to you and you want the experience of traveling to Juneau and becoming an advocate, consider signing up with us. Applications are on this website.
This Week in Committee
Monday, February 1
(H)Resources Standing Committee
1:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124
Overview by Tony Palmer, TransCanada, Alaska: AGIA Update/Open Season Testimony
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(S)Resources Standing Committee
3:30 PM in Butrovich Rm 205
Pipeline Progress by TransCanada: FERC Filings Update
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Revenue, Finance Subcommittee
4:00 PM in House Finance Rm 519
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
(H)Fish and Game, Finance Subcommittee
5:00 PM in House Finance Rm 519
Joint with Senate DFG Subcommittee;
FY11 Budget Overview
Division of Sport Fish
Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
(S)Fish and Game, Finance Subcommittee
5:00 PM in House Finance Rm 519
Joint w/(H) Fish & Game
Tuesday, February 2
(H)Transportation and Public Facilities, Finance Subcommittee
7:00 AM in Capitol Rm 17
-- Please Note Time --
Alaska Marine Highway System
(H)Community and Regional Affairs Standing Committee
8:00 AM in Barnes Rm 124
HB 281 Board of Game/Fish and game Commissioner
HB 276 Fort Rousseau Causeway Hist Park
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Fisheries Special Committee
10:15 AM in Barnes Rm 124
HB 227 Holitna Basin Reserve
HB 252 Aquatic Farm Prod./Agricultural Promotion
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Resources Standing Committee
12:00 PM in Capitol Rm 106
Lunch & Learn: An In-depth Look at Alaska's Resources
Presentation by Lincoln Loehr, Environmental Compliance Analyst, Stoel Rives LLP: "The Science of Wastewater Discharge for Cruise Ships"
Sponsored by Resource Development Council
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Transportation Standing Committee
1:00 PM in Capitol Rm 17
"An Act establishing the Alaska transportation fund; relating to local public transportation; and providing for an effective date."
CONST AM: DEDICATED FUNDS & TAXATION
TELECONFERECED
(H)Energy Special Committee
3:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124
Overview by Tony Palmer, TransCanada: AGIA Gas Pipeline Project & Open Season
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Commerce, Community and Economic Dev, Finance Subcommittee
5:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124
Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
AIDEA/AEA/Power Cost Equalization
Alaska Aerospace Corporation
Wednesday February 3
(S)Finance Standing Committee,
9:00 AM in Senate Finance 532
Presentations: Patrick Gamble, CEO, Alaska Railroad Corp; Christine Klein, Deputy Commissioner of Aviation; John Parott, Airport Manager, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Judiciary Standing Committee
1:00 PM in Capitol Rm 120
HJR 8 CONST. AM: APPROP. LIMIT/MINERAL REVENUE
HB 146 TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS ON TRUSTS
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Resources Standing Committee
1:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124
HB 312 Advisory Vote on in-state Gas Pipeline
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(S)Resources Standing Committee
3:30 PM in Butrovich Rm 205
SB 220 Energy Efficiency/Alternative Energy
SB 104 Stan Price State Wildlife Sanctuary
SB 195 Make Goldsream Public Use Area Permanent
HB 20 Fisheries Loans: Energy Efficiency/Amount
TELECONFERENCED
Thursday, February 4
(H)Community and Regional Affairs Standing Committee
8:00 AM in Barnes Rm 124
HB 264 Pipeline from outer continental shelf
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(H) Law, Finance Subcommittee
11:00 AM in Capitol Rm 120
Civil Division Budget Proposal Overview: Endangered Species Act
(S)Energy Special Committee
11:15 AM in Butrovich Rm 205
SB 223 Energy Efficiency Bonds; Loans; Fund <Public Testimony>
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Transportation Standing Committee
1:00 PM in Capitol Rm 17
"An Act establishing the Alaska transportation fund; relating to local public transportation; and providing for an effective date."
CONST AM: Dedicated Funds and Taxation
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Rules Standing Committee
2:00 PM in Capitol Rm120
HB 207 Maximum Benefit From Fisherman’s Fund Committee Organization
(S)Labor and Commerce Standing Committee
2:00 PM in Beltz Rm 105 (TSBldg)
Overview of Economic Development in the State of Alaska -- Testimony <Invitation Only> --
TELECONFERENCED
(H)Energy Special Committee
3:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124
Overview by Admiral Tom Barrett, Office of the Federal Coordinator, Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects: Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Projects
Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled
TELECONFERENCED
(S)Community and Regional Affairs, Standing Committee
3:30 PM in Beltz Rm 105 (TSBldg)
SB 43 Second Verse of Alaska’s State Song
SB 212 Municpal Energy Improvements Program
SB 120 Municipal Property Tax Exemption
SB 232 Municipal Residential Property Taxes
TELECONFERENCED
(S)Resources Standing Committee
3:30 PM in Butrovich Rm 205
Update by the Administration - ACES and Its Effect on Oil and Gas Investment
TELECONFERENCED
Friday, February 5
(H)Natural Resources, Finance Subcommittee
Feb 05 Friday 9:00 AM BUTROVICH 205
FY11 Budget Overview
Bill Spotlight
SB 228 Tax Incentives for Gas-to-Liquid An Act providing for 
an industrial incentive investment tax credit and including a gas-to-liquids facility as an eligible investment; and providing for a production tax limit on gas used as a raw material for producing liquids or petrochemicals from gas in the state. Read and referred to Resources and Finance Committees, SB 228 is sponsored by Sen. Lesil McGuire. Sens. Bill Wielechowski and Johnny Ellis.
HJR 40 Cook Inlet / Kachemak Beluga Population: Opposing the proposed designation by the National Marine Fisheries Service of 3,000 square miles of upper Cook Inlet, the mid-inlet, all of the inlet's western shores, and Kachemak Bay as critical habitat for beluga whales. The bill is currently in House Resources Committee, it's only referral.
Rep. Charisse Millett released HJR 40 last week. She said in a press release at the time that, "the only thing a critical habitat designation will accomplish is to harm the region's economy."
The resolution was co-sponsored Reps Mark Neuman, Bob Lynn, Craig Johnson, Wes Keller and Carl Gatto, and is supported by Governor Parnell and the entire Alaskan congressional delegation.
See above: In the Blog, February 01 at 3:46 PM
CSHB 20 Fisheries Loans: Energy Efficiency / Amount An Act relating to commercial fishing loans for energy efficiency upgrades and increasing the maximum amount for certain loans under the Commercial Fishing Loan Act; and providing for an effective date.
The bill was introduced last year and Alaska Conservation Voters submitted a letter of support. The bill will allow Alaska resident access to as much as $400,000 in low-interest state-sponsored loans for energy efficiency retrofitting of a Commercial Fishing vessel.
The bill, referred to House Resources and Finance Committees, is sponsored by Reps. Bryce Edgmon and Bob Buch. Reps. Alan Austerman, Bill Thomas, Peggy Wilson, Cathy Munoz, Kyle Johansen, Beth Kerttula, Paul Seaton, Les Gara, Chris Tuck, Bob Lynn. CSHB 20 is scheduled to be heard in Senate Resources on Wednesday, February 03 at 3:30 PM in Butrovich 205. Teleconferenced.
HB 224 Muni Tax Exemption for Energy Efficiency An Act relating to an optional municipal property tax exemption for an improvement to real property that is eligible for a federal tax credit for energy efficiency. Referred to Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees, HB224 was sponsored by Rep. Scott Kawasaki.
Future unknown for HB 224 Municipal Tax Credits.
House Bill 224 sits waiting for action amidst a sea of proposed energy legislation as the 2010 legislative session picks up steam. The bill, filed and read last April by Representative Kawasaki, would authorize municipal tax credits for renewable energy property improvements.
Specifically, the legislation allows homeowners to claim exemptions for projects that are covered under an analogous federal tax credit. For example, if a resident improved their home by constructing a $20,000 solar energy system that was covered under federal property tax credits, the improvement would also qualify for municipal tax credits. In this way, the bill encourages homeowners to improve residences in a way that reduces the overall energy and environmental impact on the state.
HB 224 was introduced in response to high energy costs around Alaska and unhealthy air quality in certain regions. While there has thus far been no movement on the bill this session, energy issues have taken center stage and there is hope that HB224 will be passed independently or rolled into an omnibus energy bill.
Mixing Zones: House Special Committee on Fisheries Hears Testimony on HB 46 Mixing Zones, Fails to Take Action
Representative Paul Seaton read and gave testimony on Thursday in support of HB 46 Mixing Zones, legislation that deals with water quality issues and aims to protect Alaska’s citizens and fisheries.
HB 46 would compel the Department of Environmental Conservation to collect and make public information regarding the type and amount of pollutants discharged by holders of mixing zone permits.
Secondly it would temporally expand current mixing zone limitations, making it illegal to release regulated effluent in spawning zones at all times, not only during spawning season.
Finally, the bill requires a public notification and period for comment to accompany all proposed commercially operated sewage discharge increases of over 50%.
The reading was received with varied support in the committee. Representative Munoz countered with questions on behalf of the mining industry, and Representative Johnson showed concern about how the statute would affect commercial sewage producers. Lynn Kent from the Department of Environmental Conservation declined to give an official stance, while Bob Shavelson of Cook Inlet Keeper strongly supported the bill as movement in the right direction in protecting Alaska’s environment, economy, and future.
With the varied direction of questioning and testimony, and a lack of momentum after an hour of debate, the issue was not brought to a vote, but rather was held for further hearing at a later date. This concept has been on the table for several sessions but so far hasn’t able to get any traction.
House and Senate Energy Bills: The House and Senate Energy Committees have released three highly anticipated energy bills, House Bill 305 Omnibus Energy Bill, House Bill 306 State Energy Policy and Senate Bill 220 the Alaska Sustainable Energy Act. The bills are the result, in part, of public and stakeholder meetings held over the interim by the energy committees. Of which, Caitlin Higgins, Executive Director of Alaska Conservation Alliance and Alaska Conservation Voters, was a member.
Senate Bill 220 declares a state energy policy; relating to energy efficiency and alternative energy; establishing the energy efficiency grant fund, an emerging energy technology fund, a renewable energy production tax credit, and an energy use index; and relating to a fuel purchasing cooperative, to energy codes and efficiency standards, to energy conservation targets in public buildings, to a state agency energy use reduction plan, to the alternative energy revolving loan fund, and to the renewable energy grant fund.
Caitlin Higgins, ACV Executive Director testified in favor of the bill in Senate Resources Committee on Monday, January 25. It was heard and held in (S) RES.
The bill was heard again in (S) RES Wednesday, January 27 at 3:30 PM in Butrovich rm 205 with public testimony. Thirty-one people testified, all in support of the bill. Testifiers included individuals from the Alaska Municipal League, Southeast Conference, Sealaska Corporation, the Alaska Ratepayers Association, the Cascadia Green Building Council, the Alaska State Home Builders Association, and the Alaska Sealife Center, among other organizations.
The Committee also heard from several Alaskan energy entrepreneurs interested in the Emerging Technology Fund. Many of these entrepreneurs suggested that the state encourage the sharing of data on emerging technologies, so "we can all grow together," one testifier said.
The response from Senators on the committee, audience members at the hearing, and legislative staff appeared quite positive. The Alaska Conservation Voters and its sister organization the Alaska Conservation Alliance helped organize testifiers and we're pleased with the result. As one person testified last night "It's great to hear all these engaged, intelligent voices and know that these people live in Alaska and are helping shape our future."
SB220 is scheduled to be heard this week in Senate Resources on Wednesday, February 03 at 3:30 PM in Butrovich Rm 205. Teleconferenced.
House Bill 305 Relates to energy; relating to the board of directors of the Alaska Energy Authority; amending the size and composition of the board of directors of the Alaska Energy Authority by removing the members of the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority as directors of the Alaska Energy Authority and providing for designation or appointment of other members; amending the quorum requirement for the board of directors of the Alaska Energy Authority; and relating to
nuclear waste material.
The bill was sponsored by the House Energy Committee and is referred to the Energy and Finance Committees. It was presented, by the sponsors, discussed and held January 26 at 3:00 PM in Barnes Rm 124.
House Bill 306 Declares a state energy policy and was sponsored by the House Energy Committee. It was referred to (H) ENE and (H) RES. Overall the energy policy is a good bill. However, there are references to nuclear and coal power that need to be carefully examined.
The energy policy bill was first heard in (H) ENE on Tuesday, January 26 at 3:00 PM in Barnes rm 124 It was heard again on Thursday for public testimony and amendments.
Two good changes were adopted. One supports the creation of instate job opportunities. The other calls for Alaska to remain a leader in petroleum/ natural gas production and become a leader in renewable energy development. Another amendment regarding public transportation was withdrawn following discussion. Many felt this provision tended to favor urban interests and didn’t have a place in this statewide policy legislation. Finally, a provision regarding fuel and electricity prices also was dropped because it was unworkable. A fourth amendment wasn’t ready for consideration but is likely to come up next time the committee meets on the bill.
House Bill 312 An Act authorizing an advisory vote on use of Alaska permanent fund earnings for an in-state natural gas pipeline; and providing for an effective date. The bill, released Monday, was referred to Resources and Finance Committees. Rep. Mike Chenault sponsored the bill and Rep. Jay Ramras signed on. The Bill would set up an advisory vote on whether to allow use of Permanent Fund earnings for a natural gas line.
HB 312 is scheduled to be heard in House Resources Committee on Wednesday, February 03 at 1:00 PM in Barnes 124. Teleconferenced.
House Bill 278 Relates to the administration of the Alaska energy efficient home grant fund by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation is sponsored by Rep. Chris Tuck, Rep. Cathy Munoz, Rep. Pete Petersen, Rep. Bob Herron, Rep. Reggie Joule, Rep. Neal Foster and Rep. Les Gara.
HB 278 would change energy update programs to allow up front funding. Rep. Cathy Munoz (R) Juneau said in a press release that Alaskans not eligible for the income based program currently need to come up with funding for improvements up front and get reimbursed by the state at the end of the process. HB278 would allow the money to be obligated earlier allowing many more Alaskans to participate in the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation Energy Update programs.
The bill was referred to the House Energy and Finance Committees.
New in Town
HB 312 Advisory Vote on In-State Gas Pipeline
An Act authorizing an advisory vote on use of Alaska permanent fund earnings for an in-state natural gas pipeline; and providing for an effective date.
Sponsored by Representative Chenault and Representative Ramras, the bill has been referred to the Resources Committee and then the Finance Committee. It is scheduled to be heard on February 3rd, at 1:00pm in Barnes Rm 124.
HB 313 Maintenance of Railroad Crossings
An Act relating to the maintenance and repair of railroad crossings and rights-of-way within railroad crossings.
Sponsored by Representative Stoltz and Representative Fairclough, the bill has been referred to the Transportation Committee and then the Finance Committee.
HB 320 No Royalty on Geothermal Resource
An Act removing the royalty obligation for geothermal resources.
Sponsored by Representative Millet and Representative Hawker, the bill has been referred to the Resource Committee and then the Finance Committee.
HB 321 Oil and Gas Production Tax Rate
An Act relating to the tax rate on oil and gas production; and providing for an effective date.
Sponsored by Representative Millet, the bill has been referred to the Resources Committee and then the Finance Committee.
HCR 19 AIDEA Report on In-State Fuel Storage
Urging the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority to present a business case to the Alaska State Legislature that includes a method for financing, a plan to solicit proposals for a public and private venture, and an analysis of the economic feasibility of a state-built and privately operated fuel storage facility that would serve the public interest by providing Alaskans with a reliable source of jet fuel, diesel, and gasoline at competitive prices.
Sponsored by Representative Ramras and Representative Johnson, this concurrent resolution has been referred to the Labor and Commerce Committee and then the Finance Committee.
HJR 40 Cook Inlet/Kachemak Beluga Population
Opposing the proposed designation by the National Marine Fisheries Service of 3,000 square miles of upper Cook Inlet, the mid-inlet, all of the inlet's western shores, and Kachemak Bay as critical habitat for beluga whales.
Sponsored by Representative Millet, Representative Neuman, Representative Lynn, Representative Johnson, Representative Keller, Representative Gatto, this joint resolution has been referred to the Resources Committee.
SB 242 Geothermal Resource Tax Credits
An Act providing income tax credits for geothermal resource exploration and development.
Sponsored by Senator McGuire, this bill has been referred to the Resources Committee and then the Finance Committee.
SB 243 No Royalty on Geothermal Resource
An Act removing the royalty obligation for geothermal resources.
Sponsored by Senator McGuire, this bill has been referred to the Resources Committee and then the Finance Committee.
SB 245 Salmon Product Develop. Tax Credit
An Act relating to the salmon product development tax credit; and providing for an effective date by amending an effective date in sec. 7, ch. 57, SLA 2003, as amended by sec. 4, ch. 3, SLA 2006, and by sec. 4, ch. 8, SLA 2008.
Sponsored by the Finance Committee, this bill has been referred to the Resources Committee and then the Finance Committee.
Tweet of the Week
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From Senate Resources Committee, 3:30 PM January 27th
From # ACAAlliance*
At least 30 pro-SB220 testimonies in (S) RES. Bill supporters include AARP, Home Builders Assoc., Alaska Rate Payers among others. 6:59 PM Jan 27th
Now at 22 testimonies all in favor of SB220. Calls from all over Alaska. Many highlight Emerging Energy and Energy Efficiency sections. 5:54 PM Jan 27th
In (S) RES listening to public testimony on SB220 Alaska Sustainable Energy Act. Jedediah Smith takes the line... 4:53 PM Jan 27th
*Alaska Conservation Alliance is ACV's 501(c)3 sister organization.
