May 25, 2004
Tuesday

Juneau, Alaska - Governor Frank Murkowski announced Monday that he will issue a call for a special session of the Alaska Legislature, to take place in the latter part of June. The

Flanked by legislators at a post-session press conference on May 12th at the governor's house in Juneau, Gov. Frank Murkowski tells reporters that while he is pleased with education funding, crime bills and other legislation passed during the session, he hopes legislators return for a special session to place a fiscal solution before voters this November, to pass a tobacco tax increase, and to complete important workers compensation legislation. - Photo courtesy Office of the Governor

fiscal shortfall, tobacco tax, and workers' compensation are the three main issues left unfinished when the Legislature adjourned its regular session on May 11. The subject matter for the special session will include consideration of the endowment plan for management of the Permanent Fund.

"I have spoken with a majority of the presiding officers and the minority leaders in both the House and Senate," Murkowski said. "I remain convinced that Alaskans expect us to resolve the state's long-term fiscal problems this year. Therefore, I will issue a proclamation after the Memorial Day holiday calling legislators back to Juneau.

"We are still assessing at this time which issues should be included in the call. The tobacco tax and workers' compensation reforms will likely be included, and we may consider a bond package aimed at fixing the Lake Otis and Tudor intersection in Anchorage, and other important projects.

"I encourage the Legislature to recognize that these are important unfinished matters. There is no Democratic or Republican solution - only a bipartisan, Alaskan solution," he said.

Source of News Release:

Office of the Governor
Web Site

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