For those of you who regularly tune into Senate floor sessions you may have noticed the more active part I have taken in the meetings this year in my role as Senate Majority Leader. The Majority Leader is the person responsible for making motions on the Senate floor and in many ways serves as the righthand to the Senate President.
Greetings, Alaskan Friends and Neighbors:
I can’t believe we have now passed the 45-day mark, statutory “hump day” in the legislature! Time sure flies down here. Every minute of every day is go-go-go! There isn’t a second to waste. I like that though; it’s the best way to get things done, and that’s why we are here.
Speaking of getting things done, a committee substitute for SB 14, “An Act that concerns the selection and retention of judges”, was moved out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and awaits a hearing in the Senate Finance Committee. So many of you have let me know that you want our judge selection process and our courts to better reflect the people of Alaska. After all, the legislative and executive branches aren’t the only two branches that are to be of, for, and by the people. The Judiciary branch should be too. You can read SB 14 sponsored by Senator Mike Shower here.
Another bill that is beginning to make traction is SB 27 “An Act relating to industrial hemp; and providing for an effective date.” I introduced this bill on behalf of many Alaskans interested in this new economic opportunity. Chief of Staff Buddy Whitt and I presented the bill in its first hearing in the Labor & Commerce Committee yesterday. You can read SB 27 here. Due to new federal requirements, this bill is necessary to update the hemp statutes enacted three years ago via my earlier bill which passed unanimously.
A presentation by the Legislative Finance Director in the Senate Finance Committee explored the structural deficit last Thursday which painted part of the picture of the cold realities we face. With the current proposed budget as a starting point, the hearing outlined the difference between the trajectory of unrestricted general dollar (UGF) spending for the operating budget in the coming years to the projected revenues. You can watch the hearing here.
What was not included in the hearing were discussions of any additional reductions or trimming of the budget, the estimated amounts of potential cost saving reforms via legislation, a spending cap, the current deflation underway (rather than inflation), how designated, federal and other fund sources went up for some items in recent years when the UGF fund source went down, or efforts to grow the economy (which of course naturally expands the revenue base).
Reporting on bills and happenings here and thinking about what is important to all of you back home, makes me think of two gentlemen from our district who never failed to ask me what we were up to in the legislature – and to give me their input too. Both of these engaged constituents said their final goodbyes recently, and I’ll miss them both: Bill Mitchell and Roy Burkhart. These were good men, upstanding Alaskans, and honorable Veterans.
Dr. Bill Mitchell was just a week shy of his 98th birthday when he passed. Mr. Mitchell lived a long, happy, and adventurous life. He was a United States Marine in World War II in America Samoa, the Marshall Islands, and the Gilbert Islands. After making it through that “Hell on Earth”, he completed a Ph.D. in botany. Eventually, he moved to Alaska where he conducted research at the University of Alaska Agriculture Experiment Station. Bill was an avid runner, and we’ll continue to remember him in the annual Bill Mitchell Fun Run in Palmer. In recent years, I often sat at his table at the Palmer Chamber where we discussed current issues. Dr. Mitchell was dear to the hearts of all who knew him and will be missed by many. Farewell, my fine friend.
Unfortunately, Bill Mitchell wasn’t the only great man to die recently. My friend Roy Burkhart passed away on Sunday February 28 at his home in Palmer. I knew Mr. Burkhart to be a man of many fine qualities. He was a Korean War Veteran, an engaged volunteer in political campaigns as a staunch conservative and patriot, a UAA alumnus, but most importantly a loving father, grandfather, and husband. As his children noted: “Dad loved his country, loved his family and friends, loved Alaska, and loved to laugh.” I, as well as many others, will miss Roy – and his contagious laugh. Thank you for your comradery and support, my friend. Until we see each other again, goodbye for now.
District F is certainly a better place because of Bill and Roy.
Before I “close this opener” I want to point out three new articles this week I hope you’ll scroll down to read – or at least browse. Two pertain to bills I filed on behalf of Alaskans and the third is the latest update on what’s happening in our Senate Education Committee.
I also must not forget to invite you to the next ZOOM COFFEE CHAT WITH SHELLEY – THIS SATURDAY! Join our two-way live videoconference when you can express your views on bills and issues and get your questions answered. This Saturday, 10:30am to 12 noon. Scroll down to learn how to register.
Finally, please be sure to scan the reminder bullets below! Please also know that I am here for you and count on your input on issues to assist in the decision-making process.
- Zoom Coffee Chat with Sen. Hughes this Saturday, 10:30am to 12 noon. Register by emailing Lisa.Hart@akleg.gov.
- Be sure to catch my weekly Facebook Live: #Telling_it_like_it_is Monday at 6:00pm on my senator page (time/day subject to change – watch for notices). Hear what is happening in Juneau and weigh in and ask questions. “Like” and “follow” my page so you will receive a reminder notification.
- Plan ahead to provide your input at the Mat-Su Townhall on Saturday, March 27, details TBA.
Working on your behalf,
Mat-Su legends Roy Burkhart and Bill Mitchell passed away recently. So sad to see these District F legends pass from us. So fortunate to have known these gentlemen warriors. Semper Fi and godspeed.
Hemp, Hemp, Hooray!
SB27: Industrial Hemp
Yesterday, the bill I filed on behalf of Alaskans interested in producing hemp and manufacturing hemp products, Senate Bill 27, had its first hearing in the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee.
As many of you know, I have been quite passionate about finding new ways to grow and diversify the Alaskan economy. I believe that Industrial Hemp production has potential to open up a new business sector in Alaska.
You may recall that after working with Senator Ellis at the end of the 29th Legislature (2016) on a bill we were unable to get across the finish line, that I filed Senate Bill 6 on Alaskans’ behalf in 2017, It passed unanimously in 2018 and established an Industrial Hemp Pilot Program in Alaska. Legislators correctly identified the potential for Alaska Grown hemp and decided that our state should enter the global marketplace for this diverse agricultural product.
In 2018, after Senate Bill 6 was signed into law, the United States Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill which changed the federal requirements for states to grow industrial hemp. Senate Bill 27 makes the necessary adjustments in statute so that Alaska will remain compliant with federal law* and maintain an Industrial Hemp Program into the future.
Senate Bill 27 makes the following changes in state law to comply with federal law:
- The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) may develop an Industrial Hemp Program and submit that program plan to the USDA for approval.
- Once the full program is approved, the Industrial Hemp Pilot Program is removed from law.
- DNR is authorized to issue permits for the manufacturing of industrial hemp.
- No one may be registered for the Industrial Hemp Program if they have been convicted of a felony involving a controlled substance within the last ten years.
In addition, Senate Bill 27 makes the following clean-up provisions:
- A registrant whose Industrial Hemp tests between .3% and 1% THC shall be afforded the opportunity to recondition their crop to get it below .3%.
- If a registered grower does not recondition their crop, the department may issue a violation.
- The definition of Industrial Hemp was changed to conform to the definition in the federal 2018 Farm Bill by specifying the parts and varieties of the plant.
Passage of Senate Bill 27 will ensure alignment with federal law and open the door to agricultural and manufacturing hemp business opportunities to diversify our state’s economy. Globally, hemp is a multi-billion dollar industry with China ranking first and Canada second. It’s time for Alaska to get in on the act.
*Note that although marijuana is legal in Alaska according to Alaska state statutes, it is not according to federal law. This is why there is considerable oversight required by the federal government at this time for hemp production and manufacturing. Hemp is of the same genus and species as marijuana but by definition has less than .3% THC – so has no psychoactive properties.
Quotes from Constituents and Alaskans
Comments: The Good, the Bad, AND the Ugly
Please help stop the insanity the left is doing to our community and our country. – Bart
The judicial system is a “good old boys club” and they look out for one another! – Dixie
I love law enforcement. But 300 thousand dollars per year with even overtime is just more money than people can afford. – Eric
Too much [money]! We could save by having only two [school] districts instead of 53. – Carol
This type of idea basically rides the same boat as allowing 16-yr-olds to vote in presidential elections, but then again, the stupidity of the human race continuously exceeds my expectations on a daily occurrence. – Kevin
A transparent, accurate election process is critical to maintaining our government as formulated in the State’s Constitution. I appreciate all that you are doing for Alaskans. – Newton
An Overview for You:
The Senate Education Committee
A typical practice among many standing committees in the legislature is to hold meetings early in their session called “Overviews” which encompass the scope of the committee and presentations from relevant state departments. This year I have decided to periodically give an “Overview” of each of the committees that I serve on for the public. This week’s focus is the Senate Education Committee (EDC) of which I have the honor of being a member for the 32nd Legislature.
Per Uniform Rule 20-a, the Education Committee is to consider “The programs and activities of the Department of Educations and Early Development and of the University of Alaska”.
The Senate Education Committee is a powerhouse group this 32nd Legislature and includes three members of Senate leadership and the Senate minority leader. The members are as follows:
Senator Roger Holland, Chair
Senator Gary Stevens, Vice-Chair
Senator Shelley Hughes, Member
Senator Peter Micciche, Member
Senator Tom Begich, Member
This year the education committee is concentrated on addressing early literacy, arguably one of the most pressing issues facing our great state. Why? Far, far too many students are not being properly equipped in their K-12 schooling to be productive adults, and yet we are spending more state dollars for K-12 public education than any other item in the budget. Although we have pockets of excellence and numerous examples of phenomenal teachers, our state ranks at the bottom of the barrel in the nation in reading literacy.
Alaska has had a large achievement gap for too many years, resulting in some of the lowest reading scores, graduation rates, and testing results in the nation, putting our students in a poor position on a global basis. To address this issue the Senate Education committee is looking at a number of bills including my SB 42 which would institute “Read by 9” across our districts. It also aims to improve the quality, creativity, and standards of virtual education opportunities to better engage students when learning online.
Sen. Hughes has engaged in a discussion with the Education Chair, Senator Roger Holland, regarding the possibility of his using much of the language from SB42 to draft a Senate Education Committee bill. Sen. Hughes believes the importance and scope of SB42 make it an appropriate bill for sponsorship by a committee that serves the entire senate, rather than just by one legislator.
Other legislation sponsored by legislators currently assigned to the Committee include state-tribal education compact schools, college credit for high school courses, class size reduction, out of state teacher reciprocity, free/reduced tuition for essential worker, Pre-K programs and more. Bills from the executive branch include the topics of education and supplemental loan programs, and adjusted funding for public home school / correspondence programs.
There are 13 bills currently in the Education Committee, and another 2 that have been referred but are currently before other committees. Click here for a complete list of and links to bills assigned to the Senate Education Committee.
The Senate Education Committee meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 9:00am. You can tune in to watch a livestream of the committee hearings here. Want to plan ahead? Click here to follow the meeting schedule for the Education Committee, so you can see what bills are up when. You can also keep an eye on what bills are referred to the committee as well as any bills the Education Committee might sponsor.
Daylight Savings starts next Sunday!
Mar 14, 2021 at 2 a.m.
Set your clocks one hour ahead (and don’t feel guilty if you need an extra cup of coffee the next morning due to missing an hour of sleep!)!
Legislative efforts to rid Alaska of the bi-annual clock changes have not netted enough votes to be successful. A number of you have let me know you’d support eliminating the time changes. I agree with you. Many businesses, including those in the tourism industry, however, really like the way it is and have convinced enough lawmakers to also prefer the March and November switcheroos.
Senate Joint Resolution 4
Human Life Constitutional Amendment
Senate Joint Resolution 4 proposes an amendment to the Alaska State Constitution, adding a new section that would provide clarity regarding Article 1 (specifically pertaining to the right to privacy and the right to equal protection) and Alaska’s ability to set public policy related to abortion.
This bill will be heard today at 1:30pm by the Senate Health & Social Services Committee.
Although the U.S. Supreme Court declared in Roe v. Wade (1973), and reaffirmed in Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992), that there is an alleged federal constitutional right to abortion, the federal courts have nonetheless held that states can still legislate related issues in a number of ways – e.g., by banning the use of public funds for abortions, requiring a parent to consent before abortion can be performed on a minor, and even disallowing certain abortion procedures (such as partial-birth abortion or late term abortion).
In Minnesota, both parents must be informed before a minor can have an abortion. In Illinois, one parent must be informed. As of this past year, there are 37 states that have laws requiring parental notification, and 21 requiring actual parental consent; additionally, 21 states have laws in effect that prohibit “partial birth” abortion, and 3 have laws that apply to post-viability (ability to survive outside of the uterus) abortions. In Alaska, we are unable to have any provisions in law related to these matters unless we fix our constitution.
In the past, the State of Alaska has brought forward similar legislation and ballot initiatives passed in other states that have been struck down by the Alaska Supreme Court. Laws that have gone through their due process but have been overturned at the bench have been subject to a series of decisions asserting the existence of a state constitutional right to abortion that protects abortion “more broadly” than does the U.S. Constitution.
As a result, numerous laws regarding abortion that would be completely permissible under the federal constitution and exist in other states have been struck down by the Alaska courts. SJR4 would allow Alaska to be on par with other states. It would permit the decisions that Alaskans make to stand, for example regarding parents of minors, unborn babies, and public funding for abortion.
Even though the sponsor of this legislation wants our most vulnerable (unborn babies) protected, and at birth these precious children cared for and cherished by loving parents and families; and even though the sponsor of this legislation believes that one day Americans will look back on abortion like we do slavery: a barbaric act that has no place in a civil society; this constitutional amendment will simply allow Alaskans to decide what kind of policy we want in regard to abortion in our
Photo credits to Blessings of New Babies – helpguide.org.
Public Testimony Opportunities This Week
Click links for dates and times. Click here (or if your email program doesn’t recognize anchor links, scroll down to final section of this newsletter) for information on how to receive text updates when action is taken on a bill of interest to you. The texts are occasional, and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
(H) Fisheries 10:00am
HB 115 Aquatic Farming & Hatchery Site Leases *Public Testimony*
(H) Military & Veterans’ Affairs 1:00pm
HB 53 Military Children School Residency Waiver *Public Testimony*
(S) Health & Social Services 1:30pm
SB 91 Detention of Minors *Public Testimony*
(H) Health & Social Services 3:00pm
HB 76 Extending COVID 19 Disaster Emergency *Public Testimony*
HSCR 1 Disapproving Executive Order 119 *Public Testimony*
(S) Community & Regional Affairs 3:30pm
SB 15 Open Meetings Act; Penalty *Public Testimony*
Wednesday, March 10, 2021
(H) Resources 1:00pm
HJR 12 Endorsing ANWR Leasing; Related Issues *Public Testimony*
HB 81 Oil/Gas Lease: DNR Modify Net Profit Share *Public Testimony*
(H) Judiciary 1:30pm
HB 57 Funds Subject to CBR Sweep Provision *Public Testimony*
(S) Labor & Commerce 1:30pm
SB 9 Alcoholic Beverage Control; Alcohol Reg *Invited and Public Testimony*
(S) Resources 3:30pm
SB 61 Oil/Gas Lease: DNR Modify Net Profit Share *Invited and Public Testimony*
SB 62 Gas Leases; Renewable Energy Grant Fund *Invited and Public Testimony
Thursday, March 11, 2021
(H) Fisheries 11:00am
HB 54 Invasive Species Management *Invited and Public Testimony*
(S) Health & Social Services 1:30pm
SB 93 Health Insurance All-Payer Claims Database *Invited and Public Testimony*
(S) Transportation 1:30pm
SB 74 G.O. Bonds: State Infrastructure Projects *Invited and Public Testimony*
(S) State Affairs 3:30pm
SB 83 Elections; Voting; Ballot Requirements *Public Testimony*
SB 84 Land Vouchers; PFDs *Public Testimony*
SB 7 State Trooper Policies: Public Access *Public Testimony*
SB 12 Military Spouse Courtesy License *Public Testimony*
SB 40 Veterans’ Benefits Services; Disclosure *Public Testimony*
Friday, March 12, 2021
(H) Resources 1:00pm
HB 98 Forest Land Use Plans; Timber Sales *Invited and Public Testimony*
(H) Labor & Commerce 3:15pm
SB 24 Virtual Meetings for Corporations *Public Testimony*
HB 35 Motor Vehicle Dealers: Application; Insurance *Public Testimony*
HB 99 Physical/Occupational Therapy BD/Practice *Public Testimony*
(S) Resources 3:30pm
SJR 8 Completion of University Land Grant *Invited & Public Testimony*
IMPORTANT – Please note that additional bills not shown here are scheduled for committee hearings in the House and Senate. This list only contains bills which include opportunities for public testimony this week. Click here to see the full listing.
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As the volume of daily contacts reaching out to my office has exponentially increased over time, my staff stands by, ready to assist you. If you desire follow-up, feedback, a response to a question, etc., it’s always best to call the office. Below are direct phone numbers for my aides, or you can call the general number at 907-465-3743. Below you will find a full list of my bills along with a listing of the contact info and committee/bill assignments for each staff member. Please reach out to them anytime. |
For additional information,
contact my staff:
Buddy Whitt- Chief of Staff
-Senator’s Aide for Senate Rules Committee
-Senator’s Aide for Majority Leadership
Legislation: SB 27
Buddy.Whitt@akleg.gov
907-465-5025
Lisa Hart- Legislative Aide
-Senator’s Aide for Senate Judiciary Committee
Legislation: SB 41, SJR 4
Lisa.Hart@akleg.gov
907-465-1172
Dawson Mann- Legislative Aide
-Senate Community & Regional Affairs Committee Aide
-Senator’s Aide for Senate Education Committee
Legislation: SB 42
Dawson.Mann@akleg.gov
907-465-1173
Riley Nye- Legislative Intern
-Senator’s Aide for Senate Health & Social Services Committee
Legislation: SB 43
Riley.Nye@akleg.gov
907-465-3743
Serving You in These Roles
Current Senate Committees:
- Community & Regional Affairs Committee, Chair
- Health & Social Services Committee, Vice-Chair
- Rules Committee, Member
- Judiciary Committee, Member
- Education Committee, Member
- Legislative Council Committee, Alternate
Finance Subcommittee Assignments:
- Senate Transportation & Public Facilities (Fin Sub), Member
- Senate Administration (Fin Sub), Member
- Senate Judiciary (Fin Sub), Member
Other Appointments:
- State Agriculture & Rural Leaders, Alaska Delegate
- Mat-Su Legislative Delegation, Member
- National Conference of State Legislatures – State Coordinator
- National Conference of State Legislatures – Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, Member
- National Conference of State Legislatures – Task Force on Cybersecurity, Member
- Council of State Governments – Transportation Committee, Member
- Council of State Governments West – Canada Relations Committee, Member
For information on bills I’m co‑sponsoring
click here.
For information on all bills filed during this session,
click here.
Passed Legislation
(Bills that are finished with the legislative process)
Stay tuned. As bills pass, they will be listed here.
Legislation Update
(Shelley’s bills filed with your best interest in mind)
The latest UPDATES are highlighted in yellow.
SB 27 – Industrial Hemp Program; Manufacturing- Many of you are aware that in 2018 I sponsored and the legislature passed SB6 allowing for the legalized growth and production of Industrial Hemp as an agricultural product in the Alaska. In late 2018 the US Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill which made additional changes to the federal statutes regarding the production of industrial hemp. SB 27 makes a few small changes in Alaska statute in order to conform to those federal changes. This bill was referred to the Senate Labor and Commerce and Resources Committees. On Monday March, 8th, aide Buddy Whitt and Sen. Hughes presented SB 27 in a hearing before Senate Labor and Commerce Committee.
SB 41 – Health Insurance Info; Incentive Program. Also know as the Alaska Health Care Consumers Right to Shop Act. The goal of this piece of legislation is to bring down the cost of healthcare over time by instituting full cost transparency and an incentive to shop for healthcare services that are below the average cost. This bill was referred to the Senate Labor and Commerce and Finance Committees. Senator Hughes has met with the Director of the Alaska Division of Insurance, Lori Wing-Heier, to discuss possible improvements to the legislation. Meetings with insurers are upcoming.
SB 42 – Virtual and Early Education, Reading- The “Education Transformation Act” enables districts to open up slots in classrooms to students in other locations and from other districts via two-way videoconferencing or other distance learning methods via internet. A menu of classes and teachers with video samples would open up a larger variety of course offerings and teaching expertise to students statewide. The bill also requires the state to adjust PRAXIS scores for teacher certification periodically. Districts would be required to post the ratio of administrators to classroom teachers to students each year. Districts could roll forward savings for the next year (up to an amount equal to 15% of current year’s expenditures) without impacting the amount of state funds to be received the next year. High school students could receive course credit for activities outside of school hours that districts determine meet the education or physical activity of a course. The bill establishes a “Read by 9” policy to ensure improved proficiency of students in reading by third grade. It also establishes cooperative agreements are expanded to include efficiency partnerships between districts and businesses, non-profits, and local governments. When between districts, the cooperative agreement is to include at least one rural school district. SB 42 also includes language focused on increasing the number of National Board Certified teachers in Alaska, requiring schools to post who is certified, and creating a halo around the superlative certification, showing the value of it. This bill was referred to the Senate Education and Senate Finance Committees. On Monday February, 15th, aide Dawson Mann and Sen. Hughes presented SB 42 in a hearing before Senate Education Committee. Sen. Hughes participated in an hour-long meeting two weeks ago with superintendents across the state to discuss the contents of the bill and to hear their input. Aide Dawson Mann is researching various virtual education and early literacy policies employed by other states as possible tweaks to improve the legislation, with the goal, of course, to improve student achievement outcomes and better equip Alaska’s children and youth for the future. Meanwhile, the Education Committee has heard from a variety of educators and experts regarding early literacy policy and successes. Sen. Hughes has engaged in a discussion with the Education Chair, Senator Roger Holland, regarding the possibility of his using much of the language from SB42 to draft a Senate Education Committee bill. Sen. Hughes believes the importance and scope of SB42 make it an appropriate bill for sponsorship by a committee that serves the entire senate, rather than just by one legislator. Meetings with Chair Holland and with Senator Begich (regarding his bill, SB 8) have been productive. A Senate Education Committee bill continues to be a good possibility.
SB 43- Elections, Voting, Campaign Finance- “An Act relating to campaign finance and initiatives; relating to elections and voting; and relating to unlawful interference with voting”. SB 43 is about improving transparency and accountability in Alaska’s campaign finance laws as well as securing the integrity of Alaska’s election process. This bill was referred to the Senate State Affairs and Judiciary Committees. SB 43 received its first hearing February 2 in the State Affairs Committee. The working draft of a committee substitute was adopted to narrow this bill to the subject of campaign financing related to ballot initiatives. The chair explained he planned to merge the section on ballot harvesting with another bill. The bill received its second hearing on February 16, 2021. The committee substitute was adopted and the bill was moved out. SB 43 was given a referral to the Senate Finance Committee due to an added fiscal note on February 22. Stakeholder groups have contacted Senator Hughes’ office regarding the legislation and their input is under consideration.
SJR 4 – Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating to abortion. This bill will allow for the question of abortion to be decided through legislation or voter initiative. Each and every time that the legislature has passed legislation attempting to regulate in even the smallest and simplest manner the practice of abortion in the state, the courts in Alaska have stepped in to call any such provisions unconstitutional. Interestingly, the same provisions exist in many other states, including in states considered very progressive The passage of SJR 4 in the legislature and majority approval by Alaska voters will make it possible for the people to have a voice and express their will as it relates to abortion in our state. This bill was referred to the Senate Health & Social Services, Judiciary, and Finance Committees. After conversations with the chair of the first committee of referral, there is a very good possibility that the first hearing will be Tuesday, March 16.
Catch our latest #Telling_it_like_it_is Facebook Live video from Juneau. Capitol Series #6 aired March 8, 2021. Questions and comments from live viewers are always part of our format.
Join Shelley on Facebook Live each week to ask questions and give input.
We typically broadcast Mondays at 6:00 pm, but watch for a notification on Facebook as the day/time is subject to change.
Be sure to “like” the “Senator Shelley Hughes” Facebook page www.facebook.com/AKShelleyHughes
so you’ll get a heads-up each time we air!
– Let Your Voice Be Heard –
– Participate in Public Testimony –
Public testimony is available for every bill heard in a committee. Follow bills you have interest in on the Alaska State Legislature Page. To testify, go to your local Legislative Information Office (LIO) which you can find here. If you are unable to testify, written testimony can also be submitted by sending an email to the committee.
Public testimony times on bills
that might interest you:
Find it here!
Public Testimony OFF NET Numbers
Anchorage: 907-563-9085
Juneau: 907-586-9085
Everywhere else: 844-586-9085
For budget bills and Permanent Fund bills, please arrive 15 minutes early for sign-in process, and please arrive 15 minutes prior to the end of the allotted time or testimony may close early. Public testimony may be limited to two minutes per person, so it’s best to prepare concise comments.
Remotely-operated cameras broadcast the Senate floor session. Typically the floor sessions are held Monday and Wednesday at 11:00am and Friday at 10:30am. Check the schedule and view the sessions here. 360 North (Gavel to Gavel television) broadcasts the House and Senate floor sessions statewide as well as some of the committee hearings.
HAVE A FEDERAL ISSUE???
Contact Alaska’s US Senators and Congressman
Lisa Murkowski – Senator
Anchorage: 907-271-3735
Mat-Su: 907-376-7665
Dan Sullivan – Senator
Anchorage: 907-271-5915
Mat-Su: 357-9956
Don Young – Congressman
Anchorage: 907-271-5978
TIPS TO STAY IN THE LOOP
More important than ever!
TIP #1: The Alaska State Legislature web site is the place to track bills, locate and contact your legislators (session), and access committee information. Questions? Try the help wizard or call 1-800-478-4648.
TIP #2: SMS Bill Tracking! Once you know what bill(s) you want to monitor, here’s a convenient way to track what’s happening. Text any bill number (ex: SB1) to 559-245-2529 to enroll in text alerts for that particular piece of legislation. You’ll receive an enrollment confirmation as well as instructions on how to unsubscribe.
TIP #3: How to Get in Touch with Shelley! Give our office a call at (907)465-3743 or 800-565-3743 or send an email to Sen.Shelley.Hughes@akleg.gov.
Buddy Whitt – Chief of Staff
Buddy.Whitt@akleg.gov
Lisa Hart – Legislative Aide
Lisa.Hart@akleg.gov
Dawson Mann – Legislative Aide
Dawson.Mann@akleg.gov
Riley Nye – Legislative Aide/Intern
Riley.Nye@akleg.gov
Juneau Office
Alaska State Capitol Rm 30
Juneau, Alaska 99801
907-465-3743
800-565-3743
Mat-Su Office (closed while in Juneau)
600 E. Railroad Avenue
Wasilla, Alaska 99654
907-376-3725
Legislative Assignments
Senator Shelley Hughes
Senate Majority Leader
Committee Assignments
- Community & Regional Affairs Committee, Chair
- Health & Social Services Committee, Vice-Chair
- Rules Committee, Member
- Judiciary Committee, Member
- Education Committee, Member
- World Trade Committee, Member
- Legislative Council Committee, Alternate
Finance Subcommittee Assignments
- Senate Transportation & Public Facilities (Fin Sub), Member
- Senate Administration (Fin Sub), Member
- Senate Judiciary (Fin Sub), Member
Other Appointments:
- State Agriculture & Rural Leaders, Alaska Delegate
- Mat-Su Legislative Delegation, Member
- National Conference of State Legislatures, State Coordinator
- National Conference of State Legislatures – Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, Member
- National Conference of State Legislatures – Task Force on Cybersecurity, Member
- Council of State Governments – Transportation Committee, Member
- Council of State Governments West – Canada Relations Committee, Member
State of Alaska COVID-19 Coronavirus Information (Click Here)
State of Alaska COVID-19 Health Orders (Click Here)
State of Alaska COVID-19 Vaccine Information (Click Here)
Best regards,
Copyright © *2021* *Office of Senator Shelley Hughes*, All rights reserved.
