SESSION UPDATE – May 1, 2023
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Happy May 1! Despite the fact that you can still see substantial patches of snow along the Glenn Highway and throughout the Mat-Su, did you know today is the midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice? I suppose that is why we are all eager for those patches to melt, the tree leaves to bud, and the grass to turn green – we’re halfway through spring! We want our vegetation to get with the program, after all!
Speaking of getting with the program, the legislature is in the thick of things and in my mind needs to get with the “fiscal plan program” instead of the “kick-the-can unprogram” if Alaska is to have a stronger and better future. In the final stretch in Juneau, it’s always all about the budget. This year, though, there’s a different feel in the air. This time, decisions are in the face of a stark reality of low revenues and dwindling savings and the realization that a knight on a white horse will not be charging up the hill to save us. This time, some of the proposed solutions involve your wallet.
I know you’re waiting with bated breath for this discussion, but before we address this pivotal time with looming tax bills on the horizon, let’s first turn to something that is happening TODAY and is also very important!
Protect Girls’ Sports in a Dash To The Finish Line
Today is the day the Alaska School Activities Association (ASAA) board is hearing testimony on their proposed bylaw change that would require student athletes on girls’ teams to be biological females. It’s too late to get in the queue to speak before the board at their meeting in Valdez today, but it’s not too late to do two quick and easy things to help us cross the finish line in victory – please do both!
- Dash off an email to board@asaa.org today to tell them you support the bylaw change to protect girls’ sports.
- Sign this online petition to add your name to a list of hundreds of Alaskans who support ASAA changing their bylaws to ensure girls have fair and safe opportunities by restricting biological males from their teams.
Stark Reality: Money Is Running Out
Back to the Juneau scene. The legislature has a constitutional duty to pass a balanced budget even when there are not the votes to reduce the budget when revenue and savings are low. Printing money or racking up debt like the federal government does is not an option. As stated earlier, proposed solutions that involve your wallet are on the table. What is your preference for closing the gap? [One-Minute Survey]
When You Boil It All Down: Sap to Syrup
This is the time of year for boiling things down, whether in the syrup industry or in the capital city. Our challenge at this time of year in the state capital is to reduce down, like sap to syrup, all the talk, the new stories, the hearings, the slide presentations, the press conferences to what is the essence, the base concept, of what is being proposed. I will give it a go… [continue reading]
Keep scrolling, my friends!
Don’t miss the quotes by Alaskans giving me input—always insightful and varied, sometimes startling and sometimes amusing. See what bills are up for public testimony this week. Lots of great info and photos of friends and neighbors await you below. Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom, so you don’t miss out on what may be relevant to you.
Stay in touch!
I hope to see you soon when I get back to district. I always appreciate the great input and robust discussion when we meet face-to-face. If we’re not on the Senate floor this evening, I’ll join you by Facebook Live (scroll way down for the link) this evening at 6pm to give you the latest update.
My responsibility to you is front and center, whether I am on the Senate floor, drafting policy, in a meeting, or out and about in our community. If you would like my feedback on your issue, please call my office (907) 465-3743 to set up a phone call with me or come by one of my coffee chats.
Working on your behalf,
P.S. Don’t be a stranger
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IMPORTANT – SEE BELOW!
Your input is vital. Short and quick to complete.
If you haven’t already done so, please complete the short Fiscal Plan Survey from the Alaska Senate Minority. It only takes about a minute. Click below!
Articles that are still relevant and very much worth reading!
Next Shot at A Long-Term Fiscal Plan
The House will have another opportunity soon to press the Senate Majority.
It’s Our Job to Keep Their Feet Warm: Alaska School Activities Association
Board mustn’t fall prey to bullying and get cold feet as vote to protect girls’ sports.
The Cart Before the Horse = A Runaway Horse
Trouble in River City: runaway taxes coupled with runaway spending.
Pooling Option Picks Up Steam
We’re not talking “hot springs and geysers”. We’re talking about SB110 that ultimately could help students.
SB 77 Undermines Principle of Property Right Protection
Putting Alaskans at risk of losing their property is the opposite of what we should be doing.
Sitting on the Sidelines is Not an Option
We need to rally for public accommodation sanity.
Pay raises for legislators? Flawed process and policy
In response to the 67% pay raise proposal, I filed SB 111 “Rejecting Legislators’ Salary Increase”.
The Key Point is the Key Point in Email Traffic
I am seeing recurring themes in my inbox, some of which may surprise you.
How can we make sure we’re getting the most bang for our buck in state government operations?
With all the tax talk, it’s more important than ever to support SB 9.
SB 52: Rewrite is not yet truly student-centered or teacher-focused
The bill is not yet focused on improving student learning.
SB88 Pension “Pill”: Better reading the warning label
Some are touting the pension bill as a cure but is it really?
Tax Measures Absent: a Comprehensive Fiscal Plan Will be DOA
An isolated tax package is not a long term fiscal plan.
Directing more dollars to classrooms with funds districts already have
We can increase dollars for classrooms without one new penny.
Enough is enough! Healthcare costs are breaking the bank
Four solutions await your advocacy.
Why is Lady Justices’ blindfold slipping in Alaska?
Something has changed since statehood. What can we do about it?
“National Popular Vote” isn’t what it’s cracked up to be:
It’s bad for Alaska, bad for nation.
Wobbly Premise for EV Acceleration
Biden’s goal for 50% of new cars to be electric by 2030 is unaffordable, unrealistic, and irresponsible.
Untapped Source: Part of Solution to Workforce Shortage
Lots of moaning about the workforce shortage in Alaska. Here’s part of the solution.
Hemp Saga: Effort to repeal ag crop statutes creates stir
Putting the crop under the Marijuana Control Board would be a mistake.
Thanks to Alaska Board of Education for Title IX Work
Safe and fair for all Title IX-related resolution passes.
Hold Onto Your Socks – And Your Hat: Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Stunning news about emissions few are discussing.
Time For a Wake-Up Call: Renewables And Mining
Whoa. Of the 50 minerals critical to US, Alaska has 49. But if they’re buried…
Let’s Extend This Significant Day Throughout the Year
It won’t cost a penny but the returns will be invaluable…
The Perfect Pitch: An Honor to Keynotes Competition Event for Entrepreneurs
Being an entrepreneur is about taking risks – and humor along the way.
The Del Duca family from Palmer came to visit the capital city and spent time with Senator Hughes in her office after she introduced them on the Senate floor. From left to right are Tracy, Hatcher, Sunlyn, and Kevin. The children are in second grade and attend Birchtree Charter School; the family advocated for funding for a building for the school. Kevin is an emergency room physician and Tracy is a former zoo veterinarian.
Senator Hughes was paid a visit by our federal delegation staff to discuss several topics of importance in Alaska including 404 primacy for wetland permitting. From left to right are Steve Wackowski (State Director, Senator Murkowski), Kara Hollatz (Delegation Staff Juneau Office), and Chad Padget (State Director, Sen. Sullivan).
Cody Rice stopped in to talk with Senator Hughes. Cody is originally from Palmer and worked as a legislative aide six years for former Rep. Carl Gatto who represented Palmer from 2003 to 2012.
“[W]e need a balanced budget and law that requires each program be reviewed. Cut all luxuries!”
“We need to cut welfare and cut benefits to those who have the ability to learn and work!”
“No person or group should have a back door to these children to advise or direct them against parental wishes. Families have a right to raise children and conduct their homes in peace, without outside influences or disruption which violate their values and traditions.”
“You can tax me, tax oil & gas, and keep the PFD, all before you underinvest in our young. Many of us will continue watching your actions with great interest…”
“I hope I can count on you…to pass a meaningful budget increase.”
“Rape, exposure and unsafe sports due to testosterone versus estrogen is not safe at all. I personally no longer feel my daughter is safe in public school because of these issues”
“Income tax is not ‘The Answer’ to Alaska’s fiscal question, but if a balanced budget is to be built, one factor to consider is asking the beneficiaries of Alaska’s largesse to pitch in.”
“As a voter I am urging you to oppose efforts to create a national popular vote for President. “We the people…” does not mean just the biggest cities.”
“Alaskans cannot afford additional defined benefits, and in a climate of increased costs due to careless federal spending, we cannot afford a state income tax or sales tax.”
“It’s time to develop a plan and fully fund public education from pre K thru college. Anything less is a dereliction of your duties.”
OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU TO WEIGH IN THIS WEEK
If you’d like to provide public testimony for any bill, enter the bill number (for example “HB 22”) into the search bar here to learn the date and time. Scroll down toward the bottom of this newsletter or view the highlighted bill images to find the public testimony call-in phone numbers.
The following “News from Hughes Alerts” are highlighted bills for this week.
🖱️ Click on the image to view the referenced bill.
Click the button below to see all public testimony opportunities
occurring within the next seven days.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 8:00am
HOUSE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Consideration of Governor’s Appointees:
University of Alaska Board of Regents: Albiona Selimi
WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 3:30pm
SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Consideration of Governor’s Appointees:
University of Alaska Board of Regents: Albiona Selimi
MONDAY, MAY 1, 1:00pm
HOUSE RESOURCES COMMITTEE
Consideration of Governor’s Appointees:
Board of Game: Stanley Hoffman
MONDAY, MAY 1, 3:30pm
SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Consideration of Governor’s Appointees:
Professional Teaching Practices Commission: Stephanie Green
WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 1:30pm
SENATE LABOR & COMMERCE COMMITTEE
Consideration of Governor’s Appointees:
Board of Barbers and Hairdressers
Board of Nursing
Alaska Workers’ Compensation Board
Board of Certified Direct Entry Midwives
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
Board of Dental Examiners
Board of Marital and Family Therapy
Board of Social Work Examiners
Alaska Labor Relations Agency
Board of Massage Therapists
Board of Pharmacy
Marijuana Control Board
Real Estate Commission
Board of Professional Counselors
State Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy Board
Alaska Association of Student Government (AASG) Students from Palmer High were able to visit with Senator Hughes during their tour through Juneau and ask questions about issues weighing on their minds as they look toward the future.
The Senator had some visitors from Juneau Douglas High School Track and Field who were in the building during a free period selling raffle tickets
Check out articles from our senators as we post them, take surveys, and more by clicking the picture above.
Then check out and follow our social media platforms
for even more up-to-the-minute info!
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7th Annual DRIVE YOUR TRACTOR TO WORK DAY
Celebrate the kickoff to the growing season and all of our amazing Alaska Farmers on the first Monday of May.
May 1, 2023
Click/Tap the image to see the event details online.
In the rest of the United States, National Agriculture Day is on March 22. Since the ground is still frozen in Alaska, we celebrate Ag Day on the first Tuesday of May.
May 2, 2023
Be sure to thank an Alaskan farmer!
Click/Tap the image or scan the QR code to read the full press release online.
Senate Assignments:
- Senate Minority, Ranking Member
- Alaska Food Strategy Task Force, Chair
- Food and Farm Caucus, Co-Chair
- Special Committee on World Trade
- Victims’ Advocate Selection Committee
- Law Finance Subcommittee
Other Appointments and Assignments:
- NCSL Law and Public Safety Committee, Vice Chair
- State Agricultural and Rural Leaders, National Board Member
- Article V Phoenix Correspondence Commission, National Commissioner
- NCSL Cybersecurity Task Force
- CSG-West Canada Relations
- CSG Interbranch Committee
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🔥HOT TIP🔥 SPONSOR STATEMENTS If you want to know the gist of any bill without having to read through the full text within, click the “Sponsor Statement” button below the full bill title or find the file under the “Documents” tab. These documents are usually one page or less in length and will give you an overview of what the bill is meant to accomplish. |
For information on bills I’m co‑sponsoring
For information on all bills filed during this session,
Bills I’ve Filed on Your Behalf
Health Insurance Info; Incentives/Agreements
Alaska Sunset Commission
Constitutional Amendment: Abortion/Funding
School/University Employee Health Insurance
Rejecting Commission’s Recommendation to Raise Salaries
Keep up with updates, notices, news, and photos throughout the week and live broadcasts every Monday evening at 6pm.
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!
WATCH OUR MOST RECENT BROADCAST BELOW
& THEN JOIN US LIVE TONIGHT AT 6PM!
Alaska State Legislature web site is the place to track bills, locate and contact your legislators, and access committee information. Questions? Try the help wizard or call 1-800-478-4648.
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.
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. If you need assistance, want a response, or need other follow-up, please call rather than email.
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Anneliese Roberts Chief of Staff Anneliese.Roberts@akleg.gov 907-465-5025 |
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Stephen Knouse Legislative Aide Stephen.Knouse@akleg.gov 907-465-1172 |
| Juneau Office Alaska State Capitol Rm 7 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 |
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: 907-357-9956 |
| Mary Peltola – Representative Anchorage: 907-921-6675 |
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