Senator Cathy Giessel
Republican, District E
State Senator 2021-present
Senator Giessel returned to the Senate after winning the election for new district E in November 2022. She has continued her previous level of support of UA.
During the 2023 session Senator Giessel joined her colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. She voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional $5 million in funding for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
Senator Giessel joined her colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses;
SB13 was transmitted to the House.
As a sponsor and a member of the Judiciary Committee, Senator Giessel voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
As a member of the Resources Committee, the Senator voted Do Pass for SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Giessel was a sponsor of SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee.
During the fall of 2022, Senator Giessel met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association. She had a UA intern working in her office.
Prior Year
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Giessel joined her colleagues in voting for an operating and capital budget (HB205) which set the funding for UA at $289.5 million. This level of funding is $12.5 million below the FY20 level or half of the $25m cut proposed by the governor’s compact agreement. While the $12.5 million was approved by the Conference Committee, it was vetoed by the governor. Senator Giessel sponsored a resolution supporting federal legislation to create the Arctic Department of Defense Regional Center for Security Studies. Senator Giessel’s office hosted a student intern from UAA. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
As the Senate President, Senator Giessel is to be given credit for her work in negotiating with the Senate Minority Leader, Tom Begich, with the Speaker of the House and the governor’s office to find a compromise in passing the state’s operating budget.
Senator James Kaufman
Republican, District F
Representative 2021-2022
Senator 2023-Present
Senator Kaufman was elected to the State Senate in November 2022 after serving one term in the House.
During the 2023 session Senator Kaufman joined his colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Yea on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Yea on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
Senator Kaufman joined his colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
Senator Kaufman was a sponsor and as a member of the Judiciary Committee, he voted Do Pass for HB61. HB61 removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
As a sponsor and a member of the Resources Committee, the Senator voted Do Pass for SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Representative Kaufman support of UA was more visible in 2022.
During the 2022 session, Representative Kaufman 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, YES for HB229, and voted NO for HB322.
During the 2022 session, Representative Kaufman voted Do Pass as a member of the House State Affairs Committee and was added as a co-sponsor for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass the House. 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 Kaufman voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Kaufman 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 Kaufman 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 Kaufman against for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Kaufman voted YES.
He met with the Executive Committee via Zoom during the session. He attended the UA Board of Regents reception at the Consortium Library in June 2022.
During the 2021 session, Representative Kaufman support of UA was minimum.
Of eleven operating budget votes, Representative Kaufman voted YES on four of them including House floor votes. Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES on HB 127 and HB 133 and NO on HJR 19 and HB 100.
In 2021, 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 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. 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. As one of four House members, he voted No for HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university. He was excused for the vote on 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.
Operating Budget: Representative Kaufman 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)
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
Democrat, District G
State Senator 2018-present
During the 2023 session Senator Gray-Jackson joined her colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. She voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
As a sponsor and a member of the Education Committee Senator Gray-Jackson voted Do Pass for SB13. She joined her colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
Senator Gray-Jackson voted against HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Gray-Jackson was a sponsor of SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee. The Senator was a sponsor of SB 56 and as a member of the Education Committee voted Do Pass for SB 56. SB 56 would increase the amount awarded for the Alaska Performance Scholarship. Senator Gray-Jackson was also a sponsor of SB 120 which would extend the education tax credit. SB 120 was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Gray-Jackson has been consistently supportive of UA.
The Senator voted for the operating budget. Of bills favorable to UA, she voted YES for SB32, YES on HB114, YES on HB127 and YES on HB 322.
During the 2022 session, Senator Gray-Jackson was a co-sponsor and voted with all 20 senators for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass in the House. Voted with all 20 senators for SB36 which would specify reporting requirements for the Board of Regents. SB36 did not pass the House.
SB140 would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. In 2022, SB140 was tabled in the Senate by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. Senator Gray-Jackson voted for tabling the bill.
She voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the Senate with 19 votes and 1 excused. HB 114 was signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. Senator Gray-Jackson voted Do Pass as a member of the Senate Community and Regional Committee. It passed the Senate 16-1 with 3 absences. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. The Senator voted for HB127.
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 and later passed on a floor vote of 25 to 15. After passing the House the bill was referred to the Senate. Senator Gray-Jackson voted for HB322 when the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 14 to 4.
It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The Senate voted 19 to 1 in passing the state’s budget which included a modest $12.3 million increase in UA’s operating budget. Senator Gray-Jackson voted in favor.
In 2021, she was a co-sponsor of the University Land Resolution (SJR8). She was also a co-sponsor of SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. She was a co-sponsor of SB 10 which would provide tuition for essential and laid-off workers and voted Do Pass on SB 10 as a member of the labor and commerce committee. She also voted Yes on SB 10 on the Senate floor. SB 10 was referred to the House Education Committee. She was a co-sponsor of SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College program. As a member of the Education Committee, she voted in favor of SB 6 which would provide a retirement incentive plan for state workers.
Along with most of the Senate, she voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8) and for SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. SB 36 was referred to House Education Committee. She voted for SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College Program. SB 32 was referred to House Education and then on to the House State Affairs Committee. She was absent for the vote on HB 100 which provides votech funding to UA. HB 100 was signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Voted YES on Senate Passage, YES on Senate CBR. Conference Committee: Senate adoption 1st attempt voted YES, Senate adoption rescind prior, voted YES, Second attempt (passed) voted YES. Conference Committee HB69, voted YES, Effective date, voted YES. Voted YES on Senate passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Senator Matt Claman
Republican, District H
State Representative 2015-2022
State Senator 2023-present
While Senator Claman does not highlight the university during meetings or with his communications, he is supportive of UA. He had a UA intern working in his office during the session.
During the 2023 session Senator Claman joined his colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
Senator Claman was the only senator to vote No on SB13 which passed the Senate with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
While Senator Claman voted No Recommendation as a member of the Judiciary Committee, he voted for HB61 during the Senate vote. HB61 removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
As a member of the Resources Committee, the Senator voted Do Pass for SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Claman was a sponsor of SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee.
During the 2022 session, Representative Claman 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, Representative Claman voted Do Pass as a member of the House State Affairs Committee for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 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 Claman voted for HB 127.
HB229 related to the Alaska Higher education investment fund. Representative Claman 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 Claman 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 Claman voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Claman voted YES.
In 2021, 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 Claman 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)
Senator Löki Tobin
Democrat, District I
State Senator 2023-Present
In her first term, Senator Tobin has demonstrated outstanding support for the university with public statements and with her committee work.
During the 2023 session Senator Tobin joined her colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. She voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university Senator Tobin also spoke against the confirmation during the joint session.
As a sponsor and as Chair of the Education Committee Senator Tobin voted Do Pass for SB13. She joined her colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
Senator Tobin voted against HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Tobin was a sponsor of SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee. The Senator as Chair of the Education Committee voted Do Pass for SB 56. SB 56 would increase the amount awarded for the Alaska Performance Scholarship. Senator Tobin was also a sponsor of SB 120 which would extend the extend the education tax credit. SB 120 was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Tobin met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association during the fall of 2022.
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Democrat, District I
State Senator 2023-Present
In his first term, Senator Dunbar has demonstrated considerable support for the university.
During the 2023 session Senator Dunbar joined his colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
As a sponsor, Senator Dunbar joined his colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
Senator Dunbar voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
As a member of the Resources Committee, the Senator voted Do Pass for SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Dunbar was a sponsor and as a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee voted Do Pass for SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee. The Senator also was a sponsor for SB 56. SB 56 would increase the amount awarded for the Alaska Performance Scholarship.
Senator Dunbar met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association during the fall of 2022.
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Democrat, District K
State Senator 2006-present
Senator Wielechowski’s support of UA improved over last two years and his help with the university’s request for deferred maintenance funding is appreciated. He had a UA intern working in his office during the session.
During the 2023 session Senator Wielechowski joined his colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
He voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
As a member of the Resources Committee, the Senator voted Do Pass for SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Wielechowski was a sponsor of SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee.
In 2022, the Senator voted for the operating budget. Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for SB32, YES on HB114, YES on HB127 and YES on HB 322.
During the 2022 session, Senator Wielechowski was a co-sponsor and voted with all 20 senators for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass in the House. He voted with all 20 senators for SB36 which would specify reporting requirements for the Board of Regents. SB36 did not pass the House.
SB140 would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. In 2022, SB140 was tabled in the Senate by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. Senator voted for tabling the bill.
He voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the Senate with 19 votes and 1 excused. HB 114 was signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. Senator Wielechowski voted No recommendation as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. HB127 passed the Senate 16-1 with 3 absences. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. The Senator voted for HB127.
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 and later passed on a floor vote of 25 to 15. After passing the House the bill was referred to the Senate. Senator Wielechowski voted Do Pass as a member of the Finance Committee and later voted for HB322 when the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 14 to 4. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The Senate voted 19 to 1 in passing the state’s budget which included a modest $12.3 million increase in UA’s operating budget. Senator Wielechowski voted in favor.
In 2021, he was a co-sponsor of the University Land Resolution (SJR8). He was also a co-sponsor of SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. As a member of the finance committee, he voted Do Pass on SB 36. He was a co-sponsor of SB 10 which would provide tuition for essential and laid-off workers and voted Do Pass on SB 10 as a member of the finance committee. He also voted Yes on SB 10 on the Senate floor. He was a co-sponsor of SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College program and voted Do Pass as a member of the Finance Committee.
Along with most of the Senate, he voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8) and for SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. SB 36 was referred to House Education Committee. He voted for SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College Program. SB 32 was referred to House Education and then on to the House State Affairs Committee. He also voted for HB 100 which provides votech funding to UA. HB 100 was signed by the governor.
As a member of the UA Subcommittee, he voted for the $10M increase for UA.
2021 Operating Budget: Voted YES on Senate Passage, YES on Senate CBR. Conference Committee: Senate adoption 1st attempt voted NO, Senate adoption rescind prior, Excused, Second attempt (passed) Excused. Conference Committee HB69, Excused, Effective date, voted Excused. He voted YES on Senate passage and was Excused on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Senator Kelly Merrick
Republican, District L
Representative 2018-2022
Senator 2023-present
During her first term in the Senate, Senator Merrick demonstrated support for UA with her interactions with UA leadership.
During the 2023 session Senator Merrick joined her colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. She voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator voted Nay on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Nay on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
Senator Merrick joined her colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
As a sponsor, she voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Merrick as a member of the Labor and Commerce Committee voted No Recommendation for SB 88 which would reintroduce a defined benefits retirement plan. SB 88 was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Merrick met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association during the fall of 2022.
During the 2022 session, Representative Merrick voted for the House operating budget and later voted YES on the conference committee final budget.
Of bills favorable to UA, she voted YES for HB114, YES for HB127, YES for HB229, and voted YES for HB322.
In 2022, she 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 Merrick 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. Representative Merrick 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 Merrick 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 Merrick voted for HB 281. The final House vote for the conference committee budget was 33-7. Representative Merrick voted YES.
In 2021, Representative Merrick is to be commended for her joining the majority caucus which allowed for the House to begin its deliberations.
In 2021, as a member of the Finance Committee, she voted No Recommendation for HB127 which would provide bonding authority and loans for heating and energy projects including UA. As a member of the Finance Committee, she voted Do Pass HB 100 which provides funding for votech education and includes the university.
She voted for HJR 19 which was a resolution in support of federal infrastructure funding. 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: As a member of the University Subcommittee, she voted NO for the $15.7m increase for UA as directed by the committee leadership.
Representative Merrick 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)
Senator Shelley Hughes
Republican, District M
State Senator 2017-present
While she had a UA intern working in her office, Senator Hughes’ support for UA was not visible during the 2023 session.
Senator Hughes voted against the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. She voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) but against amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator spoke in favor of the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Yes on the confirmation and on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
As a co-sponsor Senator Hughes joined her colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
As a sponsor, she voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
During the 2022 session, Senator Hughes voted with all 20 senators for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass in the House. She voted with all 20 senators for SB36 which would specify reporting requirements for the Board of Regents. SB36 did not pass the House.
In 2021 Senator Hughes was a co-sponsor for SB140 which would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. In 2022, SB140 was tabled in the Senate by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. Senator Hughes voted against tabling the bill.
She voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the Senate with 19 votes and 1 excused. HB 114 was signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. Senator Hughes was a sponsor of HB127 and voted Do Pass as a member of the Senate Community and Regional Committee. It passed the Senate 16-1 with 3 absences. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. The Senator voted for HB127.
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 and later passed on a floor vote of 25 to 15. After passing the House the bill was referred to the Senate. Senator Hughes voted against HB322 when the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 14 to 4. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The Senate voted 19 to 1 in passing the state’s budget which included a modest $12.3 million increase in UA’s operating budget. Senator Hughes voted in favor.
In 2021 Senator Hughes was a co-sponsor for SB140 which would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. The bill was referred to the Education Committee. She was also a co-sponsor of the University Land Resolution (SJR8). She was also a co-sponsor of SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. As a member of the education committee, she voted Do Pass on SB 36. As a member of the education committee, she voted Do Pass on SB 94 which would provide education and supplemental loans. SB 94 was referred to the finance committee. She voted no on SB10 which would provide tuition to essential and laid-off workers. As a member of the Education Committee she voted Do Pass on SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College program. As a member of the Education Committee, she voted Do Not Pass on SB 6 which would provide a retirement incentive plan for state workers.
Along with most of the Senate, she voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8) and for SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. SB 36 was referred to House Education Committee. She voted for SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College Program. SB 32 was referred to House Education and then on to the House State Affairs Committee. She also voted for HB 100 which provides votech funding to UA. HB 100 was signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Voted YES on Senate Passage, YES on Senate CBR. Conference Committee: Senate adoption 1st attempt voted NO, Senate adoption rescind prior, voted NO, Second attempt (passed) voted NO. Conference Committee HB69, voted NO, Effective date, voted YES. Voted YES on Senate passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Senator David Wilson
Republican, District N
State Senator 2017-present
During the 2023 session Senator Wilson joined his colleagues in voting for the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) and amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
After speaking in favor of the confirmation from the floor, Senator Wilson voted Yea on the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Yea on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
Senator Wilson joined his colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
As a sponsor, he voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
Senator Wilson was a sponsor of SB78 which provides a discount for hunting and fishing licenses for post-secondary education students. This bill was referred to the Finance Committee.
Senator Wilson has been supportive of UA over the prior years.
During the 2022 session, Senator Wilson voted with all 20 senators for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass in the House. He voted with all 20 senators for SB36 which would specify reporting requirements for the Board of Regents. SB36 did not pass the House.
SB140 would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. In 2022, SB140 was tabled in the Senate by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. The senator voted against tabling the bill.
In 2022, he voted No recommendation and later voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the Senate with 19 votes and 1 excused. HB 114 was signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. Senator Wilson voted no recommendation as a member of the Senate Community and Regional Committee. The bill later passed the Senate 16-1 with 3 absences. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Senator Wilson voted for HB127.
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 and later passed on a floor vote of 25 to 15. After passing the House the bill was referred to the Senate. While Senator Wilson voted No Recommendation as a member of the Senate Finance Committee, he later voted for HB322 when the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 14 to 4. It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The Senate voted 19 to 1 in passing the state’s budget which included a modest $12.3 million increase in UA’s operating budget. Senator Wilson voted in favor.
During the 2021 semester, Senator Wilson was a member of several committees including Finance, the University of Alaska, and Community & Regional Affairs. Senator Wilson was a co-sponsor for SB136 which would remove firearms restrictions during a disaster. SB136 was referred to the State Affairs Committee. As a member of the Finance Committee he voted No Recommendation on SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. He voted Do Not Pass on SB10 which would provide tuition to essential and laid-off workers and voted No during the floor vote on SB 10. SB 10 passed the Senate and was referred to the House Education Committee. As a member of the Finance Committee he voted Do Pass on SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College program.
Along with most of the Senate, he voted for the University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8) and for SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. SB 36 was referred to House Education Committee. He voted for SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College Program. SB 32 was referred to House Education and then on to the House State Affairs Committee. He also voted for HB 100 which provides votech funding to UA. HB 100 was signed by the governor.
As a member of the UA subcommittee, Senator Wilson voted for the $10m increase for UA.
2021 Operating Budget: Voted YES on Senate Passage, YES on Senate CBR. Senate adoption 1st attempt voted YES, Senate adoption rescind prior, voted YES, Second attempt (passed) voted YES. Conference Committee HB69, voted YES, Effective date, voted YES. Voted YES on Senate passage and YES on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)
Senator Mike Shower
Republican, District O
State Senator 2018-present
During the 2023 session, Senator Shower’s support for UA was not visible.
Senator Shower was excused from the final votes on the operating and capital budgets which were favorable to UA. The budget included $6.5 million for additional compensation, an increase of $15 million in operating funds, and $39 million for deferred maintenance. He voted in favor of Senate amendment 31 ($5 million in ANSEP funding for DEED) but against amendment 37 with additional funding ($5 million) for the Drone program and $500,000 for the Food Security program. Also included was $6.78 million for deferred maintenance.
The Senator spoke in favor of the Confirmation of Bethany Marcum for the UA Board of Regents and voted Yes on the confirmation and on the motion to rescind the negative vote of the joint session of 29-31. Bethany Marcum did not have a record of support for the university.
As a co-sponsor Senator Shower joined his colleagues in passing SB13 with a vote of 19-1. SB13 is An Act relating to costs of and charges for textbooks and other course materials required for University of Alaska courses; SB13 was transmitted to the House.
He voted for HB61 which removes the university’s ability to restrict firearms during an emergency declaration. HB61 passed the House (28-12) and the Senate (17-3) and was transmitted to the governor.
During the 2022 session, Senator Shower voted with all 20 senators for SB32 which would expand the Middle College program. SB32 did not pass in the House. He voted with all 20 senators for SB36 which would specify reporting requirements for the Board of Regents. SB36 did not pass the House.
SB140 would biologically determine participation in school sports including post-secondary schools. In 2022, SB140 was tabled in the Senate by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. Senator voted against tabling the bill.
He voted for HB114 which was sponsored by the governor and addressed education loan eligibility. HB114 passed the Senate with 19 votes and 1 excused. HB 114 was signed into law on July 15, 2022.
HB127 regarding UA loans and bond limits was sponsored by the governor. It passed the Senate 16-1 with 3 absences. The bill was signed into law on 7/3/22. Senator Shower voted against HB127.
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 and later passed on a floor vote of 25 to 15. After passing the House the bill was referred to the Senate. Senator Shower voted against HB322 when the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 14 to 4.
It was signed into law on June 29, 2022.
The Senate voted 19 to 1 in passing the state’s budget which included a modest $12.3 million increase in UA’s operating budget. Senator Shower voted in favor.
In 2021 as a member of the transportation committee, Senator Shower introduced an amendment to remove funding and voted Do Not Pass on SB74 which proposed a GO Bond which if passed would provide $29m to UA for deferred maintenance. ($10m to UAA for building upgrades and $428,000 for CPISB). SB74 was referred to the finance committee. Voted no on SB10 which would provide tuition to essential and laid-off workers.
He was excused for the vote on University Land Grant Resolution (SJR8). Along with most of the Senate, he voted for SB 36 which would require the BOR to report on teacher education. SB 36 was referred to House Education Committee. He voted for SB 32 which would expand the Alaska Middle College Program. SB 32 was referred to House Education and then on to the House State Affairs Committee. He also voted for HB 100 which provides votech funding to UA. HB 100 was signed by the governor.
2021 Operating Budget: Voted YES on Senate Passage, YES on Senate CBR. Senate adoption 1st attempt Excused, Senate adoption rescind prior, Excused, Second attempt (passed) Excused. Conference Committee HB69, Excused, Effective date, Excused. Voted YES on Senate passage and was Excused on the Conference Committee adoption for the Mental Health Budget. (HB 71)