Representative Laddie Shaw
Republican, District 9
State Representative 2018-present
During the 2022 session, Representative Shaw voted against the House budget and later voted YES on the conference committee final budget.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, excused for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
In 2022, he voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Shaw voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Shaw was excused from the vote when HB229 was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Shaw voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Shaw voted against HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Shaw voted YES.
In 2021, he was the co-sponsor of HB 179 which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. He was a co-sponsor of HB 108 which referenced university consulting as assisting with concurrent vocational education. HB 108 was referred to the Education Committee. He voted in favor of HJR 19 which was a resolution in support of federal infrastructure funding and includes UA. He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. HB127 was referred to the Senate. He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Shaw voted No on House Passage, No on House CBR and No on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, voted No for House Adoption , No on House CBR, and No on Effective Date. voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, YES on effective date. Voted No on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
As a member of the House UA subcommittee, Representative Shaw voted to restore the funding for the universities by opposing the governor’s plan to cut the budget by $134m. However, as a member of the minority caucus, Representative Shaw voted against the operating budget (HB39), which reduced the cuts proposed by the governor. After the governor’s veto, the legislature transmitted HB2001 to the governor adding back $110m to UA’s FY20 operating budget for a total of $302m or $25m below FY19.
Representative Shaw voted against HB2001 and was excused from voting on SB2002 for the capital budget.
In 2020, Representative Shaw was not present at the House Finance UA subcommittee to vote on any of the amendments recommended by the committee chair, Representative Josephson. On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Shaw voted no. On March 28th, Representative Shaw also voted against the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Shaw voted along with 34 of his colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP.
Representative Calvin Schrage
Republican, District 12
State Representative 2021-present
In his first two years, Representative Schrage was very supportive of UA.
During the 2022 session, Representative Schrage voted for the House budget and later voted YES on the conference committee final budget.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, YES for HB229, and voted YES for HB322.
In 2022, Representative Schrage was a sponsor of HB48, regarding eligibility for the Performance Scholarship. HB48 was referred to the Finance committee and it did not pass the House. In 2020, he voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Schrage was a sponsor for HB127 and voted for HB 127 on the House floor.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. As a bill sponsor, Representative Schrage voted for HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Schrage voted for the amendment and later voted for HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Schrage voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Schrage voted YES.
In this first term, Representative Schrage voted Do Pass in the Resource Committee for the University Land Grant Resolution. (SJR8) As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass As one HJR 19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska. Representative Schrage was a co-sponsor for HB127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass for HB 133 which addresses advanced college tuition as well as other state savings account. As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university.
He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. HB127 was referred to the Senate. He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Schrage voted YES on House Passage, YES on House CBR and YES on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, voted YES for House Adoption , YES on House CBR, and YES on Effective Date. voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, YES on effective date. Voted YES on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Representative Andy Josephson
Democrat, Formerly District 13
State Representative 2013-present
Representative Josephson continues his outstanding support for UA.
During the 2022 session, Representative Josephson voted for the House budget and later voted YES on the conference committee final budget. It should be noted that Representative Josephson was a key supporter in establishing a separate fund and in restoring the Alaska Higher Education investment fund. As a member of the House University subcommittee he was influential in passing a budget increase for UA.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, YES for HB229, and voted YES for HB322.
In 2022, he voted for HB114 sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Josephson voted No Recommendation as a member of the Finance Committee and later voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. As a bill sponsor, Representative Josephson voted Do Pass as a member of the Finance Committee and later voted for HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Josephson voted for the amendment and later voted for HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Josephson voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Josephson voted YES.
It should be noted that Representative Josephson was a key supporter in establishing a separate fund and in restoring the Alaska Higher Education investment fund. As a member of the House University subcommittee he was influential in passing a budget increase for UA.
In 2021 Representative Josephson was a co-sponsor of the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). Representative Josephson pre-filed in 2022, HB229 which would address the ongoing funding issue with the Higher Education Investment Fund and the Alaska Student Loan Corporation. As a member of the Finance Committee, he voted No Recommendation for HB127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. He later voted for HB 127 during the floor vote which passed 31-6. HB 127 was then referred to the Senate. He was a co-sponsor for HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university and as a member of the Finance Committee he voted Do Pass. He voted in favor of HJR 19 which was a resolution in support of federal infrastructure funding and includes UA. He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor.
As a member of the University Subcommittee, he voted for the $15.7m increase for UA.
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Josephson voted YES on House Passage, YES on House CBR and YES on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, voted YES for House Adoption , YES on House CBR, and YES on Effective Date. voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, YES on effective date. Voted YES on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Chaired by Representative Josephson in 2020, the House University of Alaska Finance Subcommittee effectively concluded its committee work by Feb. 14th. The committee held five hearings and adopted three amendments. The amendments were in support of the universities and removed individual allocations (55% UAF, 38% UAA, and 7% Statewide) that were proposed by the governor and on the advice of the university combined the separate allocations for UAF organized research with the UAF main campus. These two amendments would allow the Board of Regents more flexibility with budget planning and reductions. At the recommendation of Representative Josephson, the committee also approved an amendment that would add $10.5m to the universities’ budgets for compensation increases.
During the House Finance Committee meeting, Representative Jennifer Johnston introduced an amendment to remove the $10.5m for compensation increases. The amendment removing the funding passed 9-2 with Representatives Josephson and Wool voting in opposition. On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Josephson voted yes. On March 28th, Representative Josephson also voted for the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Josephson voted along with 34 of his colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. As a member of the House Finance Committee, Representative Josephson voted do pass on HB159 which would change the service and repayment requirements for the WWAMI program. HB159 was referred to the rules committee and no action was taken.
Representative Alyse Galvin
Republican, District 14
State Representative 2023-present
What critical roles do you see UAA playing in the state in the next two years?
I want to see the start of a re-building effort at the University of Alaska. The University should be a catalyst for Alaska’s economy, pumping out skilled labor and professionals, serving as a breeding ground of research and innovation, and attracting new industries and businesses to Alaska. Let’s start that in the next two years!
As with each of these responses, I could go on and on, but I am interested in learning more from your organization about how I can help re-build the university system.
How do you see UAA serving the constituents in your district?
I want to see the start of a re-building effort at the University of Alaska.
My district borders the U-Med district and is the home of many UAA students and faculty as well as many businesses that rely on and serve the UAA community. A vibrant UAA is critical to my district.
This year, the University received a modest budget increase after more than five years of severe cuts to operating funds. What do you see as the appropriate path forward related to the University budget and processes?
I want to see the start of a re-building effort at the University of Alaska. That includes increasing state funding of the university to begin to re-establish programs, attract new students, and grow the faculty and support staff.
UAA has a growing need to properly maintain its facilities for housing and classrooms, and for its research, engineering, health, technical, and sports programs. What is your position on capital funding for facilities maintenance at UAA?
Once again, I want to see the start of a re-building effort at the University of Alaska. That includes deferred maintenance of the existing facilities at the various campuses and building new facilities.
Representative Zack Fields
Democrat, District 17
State Representative 2018-present
Representative Fields continues to be very supportive of UA.
During the 2022 session, Representative Fields voted for the House budget and later voted YES on the conference committee final budget.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, YES for HB229, and voted YES for HB322.
During the 2022 session, was added as a co-sponsor for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass the House. Representative Fields was a sponsor for HB21 which would add a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. HB21 was referred to House Finance and not passed by the House. Representative Fields was a sponsor of HB48, regarding eligibility for the Performance Scholarship. HB48 was referred to the Finance committee and it did not pass the House.
In 2022, he voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Fields voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Fields voted for HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Fields voted for the amendment and later voted for HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Fields voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Fields voted YES.
In 2021, Representative Fields voted Do Pass in the Resource Committee for the University Land Grant Resolution. (SJR8). He was also a co-sponsor SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College program.
As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass for HJR 19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska. As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass for HB 133 which addresses advanced college tuition as well as other state savings account.
As a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee, he voted Do Pass HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university. He was the co-sponsor of HB 21 which would have added a faculty member to the BOR and HB 48 which addresses AK Performance Scholarship eligibility. Both bills were referred to the Education Committee. He voted for HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. HB127 was referred to the Senate. He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor.
Returning to Juneau in 2020 as a member of the House Finance UA subcommittee, Representative Fields demonstrated his support for the universities by voting for three amendments as recommended by the committee chair, Representative Josephson. The amendments were in support of the universities and removed individual allocations (55% UAF, 38% UAA, and 7% Statewide) that were proposed by the governor and on the advice of the UA system combined the separate allocations for UAF organized research with the UAF main campus. These two amendments would allow the Board of Regents more flexibility with budget planning and reductions. The committee also approved an amendment that would add $10.5m to the universities’ budgets for compensation increases.
As a member of the House Labor and Commerce Committee, Representative Fields voted do pass on HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. Representative Fields was also the sponsor of HB196 which would increase the amount of the Alaska Performance Scholarship. HB196 was referred to the Education Committee and no action was taken. Co-sponsor of HB 129 which would provide funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship. HB 129 was referred to the Education Committee.
On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Fields voted yes. On March 28th, Representative Fields also voted for the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Andrew Gray
Republican, District 20
State Representative 2023-present
What critical roles do you see UAA playing in the state in the next two years?
UAA is the heart of Anchorage. It is the hub of intellectual life in our state’s largest city and keeping UAA well-funded so that it cannot only continue its offerings to students and the public but expand them over the next two years is essential.
How do you see UAA serving the constituents in your district?
UAA is in my district (House District 20), so many of my constituents attend UAA as students or work there as employees. Over the past few years I have watched neighbors’ jobs get eliminated due to budget cuts, and, heartbreakingly, some of them have left the state. I want UAA to continue to be the important center of life that it is for District 20. I want it to continue to host important cultural events (such as the recent Constitutional Convention debate) and sporting events, but more importantly, I want it to continue to provide top quality education by employing the best and brightest that Anchorage has to offer.
This year, the University received a modest budget increase after more than five years of severe cuts to operating funds. What do you see as the appropriate path forward related to the University budget and processes?
The University of Alaska is the crown jewel of higher education in Alaska. Without the UA system, our people must travel to the lower 48 for good quality higher education. It is essential that as many programs as possible are offered to Alaskans, and to do so we must adequately fund our university system. We must expand the budget for the UA system, and to UAA in particular.
UAA has a growing need to properly maintain its facilities for housing and classrooms, and for its research, engineering, health, technical, and sports programs. What is your position on capital funding for facilities maintenance at UAA?
My position is that the State must adequately fund the maintenance of facilities for housing and classrooms and that to do so the capital funding for that maintenance at UAA must be expanded.
Representative DeLena Johnson
Republican, District 25
State Representative 2017-present
During the 2022 session, Representative Johnson voted for the House budget and then voted NO on the conference committee final budget vote.
Of bills favorable to UA, she voted NO for HB114, YES for HB127, NO for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
During the 2022 session, was added as a co-sponsor for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass the House. In 2022, she voted against HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Johnson voted Do Pass as a member of the Finance Committee and voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Johnson voted against HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Johnson voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Johnson voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Johnson voted NO.
In 2021, she was the co-sponsor of HB 179 which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. As one of nine House members, she voted No on HJR19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska.
She was a co-sponsor of HB 175 which would restrict UA from mandating COVID vaccinations. HB 175 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. She voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). She voted for HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. HB127 was referred to the Senate. She voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor,
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Johnson voted No on House Passage, No on House CBR and No on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, voted No for House Adoption , No on House CBR, and NO on Effective Date. voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, YES on effective date. Voted NO on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Johnson voted no. On March 28th, Representative Johnson also voted against the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Johnson voted along with 34 of her colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. Representative Johnson voted do pass on HB155 which would add career and technical education to the Alaska Performance Scholarship program. HB155 was referred to House Finance and no action was taken.
Representative Cathy Tilton
Republican, District 26
State Representative 2015-present
During the 2022 session, Representative Tilton against the House budget and voted NO on the conference committee final budget vote.
Of bills favorable to UA, she voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, NO for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
In 2022, she voted for HB114 sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Tilton voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Tilton voted against HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Tilton voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Tilton voted against HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Tilton voted NO.
In 2021, she was the co-sponsor of HB 179 which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. As one of nine House members, she voted No on HJR19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska.
She was a co-sponsor of HB 175 which would restrict UA from mandating COVID vaccinations. HB 175 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. She voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). She voted for HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. HB127 was referred to the Senate. She voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor,
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Tilton voted No on House Passage, No on House CBR and No on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, voted No for House Adoption , No on House CBR, and NO on Effective Date. voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, YES on effective date. Voted NO on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
In 2020, as a member of the House Finance Committee, Representative Tilton voted to remove the $10.5m for compensation increases for the universities which was approved by the university finance subcommittee. The amendment removing the funding passed 9-2 with Representatives Josephson and Wool voting in opposition.
On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Tilton voted no. As a member of the Conference Committee Representative Tilton did not object to the Senate version of the operating budget for the UA system. However, on March 28th, Representative Tilton voted against the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Tilton voted along with 34 of her colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. As a member of the House Finance Committee, Representative Tilton voted do pass on HB159 which would change the service and repayment requirements for the WWAMI program. HB159 was referred to the rules committee and no action was taken.
Representative David Eastman
Republican, District 27
State Representative 2017-present
During the 2022 session, Representative Eastman voted NO for the House budget vote and voted NO on the conference committee final budget vote.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted NO for HB114, HB127, HB229, and HB322.
In 2022, he voted against HB114 sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Eastman voted against HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Eastman voted against HB229 which was passed by the House, 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Eastman voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Eastman voted against HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Eastman voted NO.
In 2021, he was the co-sponsor of HB 179 and HB199 both of which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs while HB 199 was referred to the Judiciary Committee. As one of nine House members, he voted No on HJR 19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska. As one of six House members he voted against HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA.
As one of four House members, he voted No for HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university. He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee.
2021 Operating Budget: Representative Eastman voted No on House Passage, No on House CBR and No on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, he voted No for House Adoption , No on House CBR, and NO on Effective Date. He voted NO on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, NO on rescinding the failed effective date vote, NO on effective date. He voted NO on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget.
On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Eastman voted no. On March 28th, Representative Eastman also voted against the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Eastman was the sponsor of HB295 which would require the universities to remain neutral on public policy matters. HB295 was referred to the State Affairs Committee and no action was taken. Representative Eastman voted along with 34 of his colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. Representative Eastman voted no on HB268 which would expand the financing options for the UA system and increase the cap to $500m. HB268 was passed 33-4 by the House and referred to the Senate where no action was taken. Representative Eastman voted no on SB241 which provides federal COVID-19 funding for the universities and provides Good Samaritan protection for Alaska manufacturers working on increasing the supply of personal protection equipment. SB241 passed the House 34-1.
Representative George Rauscher
Republican, District 29
State Representative 2017-present
Representative Rauscher’s support for UA was not visible.
During the 2022 session, Representative Rauscher voted NO for the House budget vote and voted NO on the conference committee final budget vote.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, NO for HB127, was excused for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
In 2022, voted for HB114 sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative Rauscher voted against HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Rauscher was excused from the House vote where it passed 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative Rauscher voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative Rauscher voted against HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Rauscher voted NO.
In 2021, Representative Rauscher voted Do Pass in the Resource Committee for the University Land Grant Resolution. (SJR8) He was the co-sponsor of HB 179 which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs. As one of nine House members, he voted No on HJR 19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska. As one of six House members he voted against HB 127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. He was a co-sponsor of HB 175 which would restrict UA from mandating COVID vaccinations. HB 175 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor.
Operating Budget: Representative voted NO on House Passage, NO on House CBR and NO on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, he voted NO for House Adoption , NO on House CBR, and NO on Effective Date. He voted YES on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, YES on rescinding the failed effective date vote, NO on effective date. He voted NO on House passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget.
On March 3, 2020 on a vote of 23-16, the House passed its FY21 operating budget which generally supported the governor’s request of $4.4 billion. Representative Rauscher voted no. On March 28th, Representative Rauscher was excused from voting on the Conference Committee version of the operating budget which reduced the budget cut for the universities. While the $12.5 million reduction was approved by the House (23-13) and Senate (17-1), it was later vetoed by the governor restoring the full $25 million cut for the UA system.
Representative Rauscher voted along with 34 of his colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. Representative Rauscher was the sponsor of HB282 which would create an Office of Public Policy Events at each UA campus. HB282 was referred to the Education Committee and no action was taken.
Representative Kevin McCabe
Republican, District 30
State Representative 2021-present
During the 2022 session, Representative McCabe was excused for the House budget vote and voted NO on the conference committee final budget vote.
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for HB114, HB127, was excused for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
In 2022, he voted for HB114 sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the House 35 to 3 and signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the House 31-6 with 3 representatives excused. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Representative McCabe voted Do Pass as a member of the Community and Regional Committee and voted for HB127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative McCabe was excused from the House vote where it passed 23-9.
HB322 originated with the House Transportation Committee for funding for the Alaska marine highway system fund. It was then amended to include separate funding for the Alaska Higher Education investment fund for student scholarships and loans. The amendment was passed by the House, 23 to 16. Representative McCabe voted against the amendment and later voted against HB322 when the House passed the bill 25 to 15. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The House vote on the operating budget was 25 for and 14 against. Representative McCabe was excused from the vote. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative McCabe voted NO.
In his first term, he was the co-sponsor of HB 179 which would prohibit restrictions on firearms including the UA campuses. HB 179 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs. As one of nine House members, he voted No on HJR 19 which is a resolution of support for federal infrastructure funding for Alaska. As a member of the Community and Regional Affairs Committee he voted Do Pass for HB127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. He was a co-sponsor of HB 175 which would restrict UA from mandating COVID vaccinations. HB 175 was referred to the Community and Regional Affairs Committee. He voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). He voted for HB 133 which addresses college tuition savings and was referred to the Senate and Health and Social Services Committee and voted for HB 100 which would provide votech funding to UA. HB 100 passed the Senate and was signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Representative McCabe voted No on House Passage, No on House CBR and No on House Effective Date. Regarding HB 69 Conference Committee, he voted No for House Adoption , No on House CBR, and NO on Effective Date. He voted NO on HCR2001 bring HB 69 back, NO on rescinding the failed effective date vote, NO on effective date. He voted NO on House passage and NO on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget.