Senator Cathy Giessel
Republican, District E
State Senator 2021-present
2025-2026
Senator Giessel has continued to support UA and provide critical leadership in the Senate as Majority Leader.
She was a co-sponsor of SB28 (Defined Retirement Benefits). The House version (HB78) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are required to override. Senator Giessel was consistent in her voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
In 2026, Senator Giessel voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Giessel voted for legislation of interest to the university. She voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. She also voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Giessel voted for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Giessel joined with most of her colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Giessel met with the UAA Faculty and Staff Association Executive Committee during the fall of 2025.
Prior Years
In 2025, the Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. As a member of the bi-partisan majority, Senator Giessel voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Giessel took a leadership role in introducing SB28 which would provide a defined benefit retirement option. SB28 was referred to Labor and Commerce. She was a co-sponsor for HB10 which would place a faculty member on the Board of Regents.
During 2024, Senator Giessel has continued to support UA and provides critical leadership in the Senate as Majority Leader.
As a member of the bi-partisan majority, she voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Giessel also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate version and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Giessel voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) and recommended Do Pass on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. Senator Giessel was a sponsor for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Giessel voted with her senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator James Kaufman
Republican, District F
Representative 2021-2022
Senator 2023-Present
2025-2026
As a member of key Senate committees, Senator Kaufman provided support for UAA.
In 2026, Senator Kaufman voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. Senator Kaufman voted for amendment #1 for a capital appropriation for the Prince William Sound College Renewal, which was not passed by the Senate, Y7-N12.
HB78 (Defined Retirement Benefits) was passed Y21 – N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. Senator Kaufman voted Do Not Pass for HB78 on February 2, 2026. Senator Kaufman voted No for HB78 which passed the Senate Y12 - N8 and sent it back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. Senator Kaufman voted to sustain the governor’s veto and the attempt to override failed Y33-N27 since 40 votes were needed.
Senator Kaufman voted for legislation of interest to the university. He was a co-sponsor of SB107 which would sunset certain commissions. This bill died in committee. He voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House Y40 - 0 and transmitted to the governor. He also voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Kaufman voted Do Pass for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Kaufman joined with most of his colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Kaufman met with the UAA Faculty and Staff Association Executive Committee in January 2026.
Prior Years
In 2025, Senator Kaufman provided limited support for UA as a member of the UA Senate Subcommittee, the Senate Finance Committee and as a member of the Conference Committee.
The Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Kaufman voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. As a member of the Conference Committee Senator Kaufman accepted the senate’s more austere version of the operating and supplemental budgets.
Senator Kaufman was elected to the State Senate in November 2022 after serving one term in the House.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, he voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Kaufman also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate version and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Kaufman was a sponsor and voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) and was a sponsor on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. Senator Kaufman voted NO for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Kaufman voted with his senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
Democrat, District G
State Senator 2018-present
2025-2026
While not a member of the education or finance committees, Senator Gray-Jackson continues her support for UA.
In 2026, Senator Gray- Jackson voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
She was a co-sponsor of SB28 (Defined Retirement Benefits) and voted Do Pass for the House version (HB78) in February 2026. The House version (HB78) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes were needed to override. Senator Gray-Jackson was consistent in her voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
Senator Gray- Jackson voted for legislation of interest to the university. She voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. She was the sponsor of SB157 and later voted for the House version (HB176) regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Gray-Jackson voted for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Gray-Jackson joined with most of her colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Prior Years
During 2025, Senator Gray-Jackson continued to provide considerable support for UA.
The Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Gray-Jackson voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. The Senator is a co-sponsor of HB10 which would add a faculty member to the BOR and a co-sponsor of SB28 for a defined benefit retirement option. Senator Gray-Jackson was a co-sponsor of SB157 to provide notice of changes in student fees. SB157 was referred to the education committee.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, she voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Gray-Jackson also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) and on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. The senator voted Yes for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house. The senator was a sponsor of SB14 which would provide an early retirement option. SB14 died in the Labor and Commerce Committee. She was also a sponsor for SB120 (Education Tax Credit) which was incorporated into HB148 and passed by the house and senate.
Senator Gray-Jackson voted with her senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Matt Claman
Republican, District H
State Representative 2015-2022
State Senator 2023-present
2025-2026
While not a member of the education or finance committees, Senator Claman continued his support for UA.
In 2026, Senator Claman voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Claman was a co-sponsor of SB28 (Defined Retirement Benefits). The House version, HB78 was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Claman was consistent in his voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
Senator Claman voted for legislation of interest to the university. He voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. He voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Claman voted for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Claman joined with most of his colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Prior Years
In 2025, Senator Claman continued to be supportive of UA.
The Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Claman voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. He is a co-sponsor of HB10 which would add a faculty member to the BOR and a co-sponsor of SB28 for a defined benefit retirement option.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, Senator Claman he voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Claman also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator voted No on SB13 (textbook costs) and Yes on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. The senator was excused for the vote on SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Claman voted with his senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
During the fall of 2023, Senator Claman met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association.
Senator Löki Tobin
Democrat, District I
State Senator 2023-Present
2025-2026
Senator Tobin continues to provide outstanding leadership as the Chair of the Senate Education Committee, Co-chair of the Senate Task Force on Education Funding, and as a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Education and Early Development. She is a vocal advocate for the university, education, and libraries.
She was a co-sponsor of SB28 (Defined Retirement Benefits). The House version (HB78) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Tobin was consistent in her voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
In 2026, Senator Tobin voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Tobin voted for legislation of interest to the university. She voted Do Pass for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. She also voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Tobin voted Do Pass on the senate version of HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Tobin as a senate sponsor, voted Do Pass and joined with most of her colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Tobin met with the UAA Faculty and Staff Association Executive Committee during the fall of 2025.
Prior Years
In 2025, Senator Loki Tobin continued her leadership role as chair of the Senate Education Committee.
The Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Tobin voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. She is a co-sponsor of HB10 which would add a faculty member to the BOR and a co-sponsor of SB28 for a defined benefit retirement option. Senator Tobin voted do pass on SB118 to add a faculty member to the BOR. Senator Tobin is a vocal advocate for the university, education, and libraries.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, she voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Tobin also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator was a sponsor and voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) and on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. The senator was a sponsor and voted Yes for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house. Senator Tobin voted No Recommendation on SB14 (early recommendation) which died in the Labor and Commerce Committee. She was a sponsor for SB120 (Education Tax Credit) which was incorporated into HB148 and passed by the house and senate
Senator Tobin voted with her senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Democrat, District J
State Senator 2023-Present
2025-2026
While not a member of the education or finance committees, Senator Dunbar continued his support for UA.
In 2026, Senator Dunbar voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
He was a sponsor of SB28 (Defined Retirement Benefits) and voted Do Pass on the house version. HB78 was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Dunbar was consistent in his voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
Senator Dunbar voted for legislation of interest to the university. He voted Do Pass for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. He voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Dunbar voted for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Dunbar joined with most of his colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor. Senator Dunbar voted for amendment #1 for a capital appropriation for the Prince William Sound College Renewal, which was not passed by the Senate, Y7-N12.
Prior Years
In 2025, The Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Dunbar voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. He is a co-sponsor of HB10 which would add a faculty member to the BOR and a co-sponsor of SB28 for a defined benefit retirement option.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, he voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. Senator Dunbar also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator was a sponsor and voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs). He voted Do Pass on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. The senator was a sponsor and voted Do Pass for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Dunbar voted with his senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Democrat, District K
State Senator 2006-present
2025-2026
While not a member of the education or finance committees, Senator Wielechowski continued his support for UA.
In 2026, Senator Wielechowski voted for the supplemental, capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Wielechowski was a co-sponsor of SB 28 (Defined Retirement Benefits. The House version (HB78) was passed by the House Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Wielechowski was consistent in his voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
Senator Wielechowski voted for legislation of interest to the university. He voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. He voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Wielechowski was a co-sponsor for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Wielechowski was a sponsor and joined with most of his colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor. He voted No Recommendation for SB107 which would sunset certain commissions.
Prior Years
In 2025 the Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Wielechowski voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests. He is a co-sponsor of SB28 for a defined benefit retirement option.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, he voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. The senator also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs). He voted Do Pass on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. The senator was a sponsor for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Wielechowski voted with his senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Kelly Merrick
Republican, District L
Representative 2018-2022
Senator 2023-present
2025-2026
Senator Merrick continues to be supportive of UA as a member of the Senate University of Alaska Subcommittee and as Vice-Chair of Senate Finance.
In 2026, Senator Merrick voted for the supplemental and voted Do Pass as Vice Chair of Senate Finance for the capital, and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
HB78 (Defined Retirement Benefits) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Merrick was consistent in her voting for HB 78 and to override the veto.
Senator Merrick voted for legislation of interest to the university. She voted Do Pass for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which was endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. She voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor. Senator Merrick voted for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Merrick joined with most of her colleagues (Y17- N3) in voting for HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program. HB28 was transmitted to the governor
Senator Merrick met for breakfast with the UAA Faculty and Staff Association Executive Committee during the fall of 2025.
Prior Years
During 2025, the Senate voted 20-0 for the capital budget SB57. Senator Merrick voted Yes on the operating budget HB53 which passed 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Senator Merrick voted to override the governor’s veto of the education funding bill.
During 2024, as a member of the bi-partisan majority, she voted Yes on the operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 17-3. The senator also voted Yes on the capital budget (SB187) on both the original senate bill and on the final vote to concur with the house amendments. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
The senator voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs). She voted Yes on SB78 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session. While the senator voted No Recommendation at the committee level, she did vote Yes for SB88 which would have provided certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans. While SB88 passed in the senate with a vote of 12-5, it died in house.
Senator Merrick voted with her senate colleagues 20-0, on HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit.
Senator Cathy Tilton
Republican, District M
Representative 2015-2025
State Senator 2026-present
2025-2026
In November 2025, Cathy Tilton resigned from the House and was appointed to the Senate by the governor.
In 2026, Senator Tilton voted for the supplemental and the capital budgets while voting No on the operating budget. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
HB78 (Defined Retirement Benefits) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Tilton voted No on HB78 and voted to sustain the governor’s veto.
Senator Tilton voted for legislation of interest to the university. Senator Tilton voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which is endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. Senator Tilton voted for amendment #1 for a capital appropriation for the Prince William Sound College Renewal, which was not passed by the Senate, Y7-N12. Senator Tilton voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor.
Senator Tilton voted No for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Tilton also voted No on HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program which passed the Senate Y17 -N3. HB28 was transmitted to the governor
Prior Years
State Representative 2015-2025
During 2025 Representative Tilton voted No for the operating budget and the capital budget. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
She voted against HB10 to add a faculty member to the BOR. Representative Tilton voted No on HB78 to offer a defined benefit retirement option. HB78 passed the House 21-19 and was referred to the Senate.
Representative Tilton voted to sustain the governor’s veto of the education funding bill.
During 2024, Representative Tilton’s support of UA was more visible, and she spent time with the Faculty Alliance.
Representative Tilton voted Yes on the final operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 22-18. Representative Tilton also voted Yes on the final capital budget (SB187) which passed 39-1 . Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Representative Tilton voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) which passed the house 40-0. She voted no to advance the pension bill (SB88) out of the State Affairs Committee. With a vote of 19-19 with 2 excused, the bill died in committee.
Representative Tilton voted for HB144 for education tax credits and HB55 (TVEP authorization). These two bills were later incorporated into HB 148.
Representative Tilton did vote for HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit. She voted for SB78/HB120 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session.
Representative Tilton voted to sustain the governor’s veto of SB 140 which provided an increase in education funding. SB 140 originally passed the house in February, 38-2. The vote to sustain the veto during the joint session was 39-20, one vote short of the total needed to override the governor’s veto.
Senator Robert Yundt
Republican, District N
State Senator 2025-present
2025-2026
Senator Yundt continues to show support for the university.
In 2026, Senator Yundt voted for the supplemental, capital and operating budgets. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
HB78 (Defined Retirement Benefits) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Yundt voted No on HB78 and voted to sustain the governor’s veto.
Senator Yundt voted for legislation of interest to the university. Senator Yundt voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which is endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. Senator Yundt voted for amendment #1 for a capital appropriation for the Prince William Sound College Renewal, which was not passed by the Senate, Y7-N12. Senator Yundt voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor.
Senator Yundt voted Yes for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2 and will be transmitted to the governor. Senator Yundt also voted Yes on HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program which passed the Senate Y17 -N3. HB28 was transmitted to the governor. Senator Yundt was a co-sponsor of SB181 which would sunset boards and commissions. SB181 was referred to the finance committee.
Prior Years
In 2025 during his first year, Senator Yundt demonstrated some support for UA and for education. While Senator Yundt voted with his colleagues in passing the capital budget 20-0, he voted No on HB53 for the operating budget which passed the senate 16-4. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
It is notable that Senator Yundt was the sole member of the senate minority to vote to override the governor’s veto of HB57.
Senator George Rauscher
Republican, District O
Representative 2017-2025
State Senator 2026-present
2025-2026
In November 2025, George Rauscher resigned from the House and was appointed to the Senate by the governor.
In 2026, Senator Rauscher voted for the supplemental and the capital budgets and voted No on the operating budget. The Senate voted 20-0 for HB289 (Supplemental Budget) and with a vote of Y19-1 (excused) voted to pass the Capital Budget. The Senate voted Y17 - N3 for the state’s operating budget (HB263). Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
HB78 (Defined Retirement Benefits) was passed Y21-N19 and sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate voted Y12 - N8 and passed HB78 back to the House which concurred with the Senate Y21-N19. HB78 was transmitted to the governor who vetoed the bill. The governor’s veto was sustained by a vote of Y33-N27 since 40 votes are needed to override. Senator Rauscher voted No on HB78 and voted to sustain the governor’s veto.
Senator Rauscher voted for legislation of interest to the university. Senator Rauscher voted for SB181 (Employment Information Disclosure) which is endorsed by ISER and passed by the Senate Y17-E3. The bill was passed by the House and transmitted to the governor. Senator Rauscher offered amendment #1 for a capital appropriation for the Prince William Sound College Renewal, which was not passed by the Senate, Y7-N12. Senator Rauscher voted for HB176 regarding student fees which was passed Y20 – 0 and transmitted to the governor.
Senator Rauscher voted No for HB10 which adds a faculty member to the UA Board of Regents. This bill was passed by the Senate Y18 – N2. Senator Rauscher also voted No on HB 28 which establishes a teacher/student loan repayment pilot program which passed the Senate Y17 -N3. HB28 was transmitted to the governor.
Prior Years
State Representative 2017-present
In 2025, Representative Rauscher voted No for the operating budget and the capital budget. Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
He voted against HB10 to add a faculty member to the BOR. Representative Rauscher voted No on HB78 to offer a defined benefit retirement option. HB78 passed the House 21-19 and was referred to the Senate.
Representative Rauscher voted to sustain the governor’s veto of the education funding bill.
During 2024, Representative Rauscher voted Yes on the final operating budget (HB268/HB270) which passed 22-18. Representative Rauscher also voted Yes on the final capital budget (SB187) which passed 39-1 . Both the operating and capital budgets contained funding favorable to UA although falling short of the BOR budget requests.
Representative Rauscher voted Yes for SB13 (textbook costs) which passed the house 40-0. He voted no to advance the pension bill (SB88) out of the State Affairs Committee. With a vote of 19-19 with 2 excused, the bill died in committee.
Representative Rauscher voted for HB144 for education tax credits and HB55 (TVEP authorization). These two bills were later incorporated into HB 148.
Representative Rauscher did vote for HB148 which included improvements to the state’s scholarship program, TVEP Reauthorization, and continuation of the Education Tax Credit. He voted No Recommendation for SB78/HB120 which would reduce hunting license costs to out-of-state students. SB78 was killed in the senate at the end of the session.
Representative Rauscher was excused from the vote to override the governor’s veto of SB 140 which provided an increase in education funding. SB 140 originally passed the house in February, 38-2.