Senator Cathy Giessel
Republican, District E
State Senator 2021-present
In 2017, as a member of the Education Committee Senator Giessel recommended “do pass” for SB102, 103, and 104. The three bills aimed at changing K-12 education by establishing innovation grants, boosting broadband capacity, and providing districts with a three-year reprieve from curriculum review. While the three bills deserve a critical evaluation the major concern with the Alaska Education Innovation Grant Fund (SB 103) is that the bill initially sought to eliminate and then in its revised version to significantly reduce the Alaska Performance Scholarship program. UA Board of Regents had previously passed a resolution opposing the elimination of both programs. SB 103 was referred to the House.
Senator Giessel voted for HB141, which will extend the Technical Vocational Education Program for three more years. Senator Giessel was also a sponsor to SB27 (HB64), which would create a task force on reading proficiency, instruction, and dyslexia. UA would have a representative on the task force. SB27 was referred to the Education Committee on January 20, 2017. Senator Giessel as a member of the Senate Education Committee voted “no recommendation” for SB17 which would provide a reciprocal student exchange program between the University of Hawaii and the state universities in Alaska for students pursuing political science degrees. The program is intended to honor the bipartisan relationship between US Senators Ted Stevens and Daniel Inouye. SB17 was referred to the Senate Finance on March 15, 2017.
Senator Giessel voted for an operating budget, which included $303 million for the UA System or $22 million less than the House budget of $325 million. In June during the second special session Senator Giessel voted for the FY18 operating budget, which was previously passed by the Conference Committee and the House. In July she voted for the capital budget that provided $5 million to the UA System for deferred maintenance.
In 2018, Senator Giessel voted for the Senate version of the operating budget, which included $322 million for the UA System or $14 million less than the House budget of $336. Senator Giessel voted against Senator Gardner’s amendment to add funding to the UA System’s operating budget. The amendment failed 5-15. Senator Giessel later voted for the FY19 operating budget as approved by the conference committee adding $10 million to the UA System’s operating budget. She joined her senate colleagues in voting for the capital budget, which appropriated $2 million dollars to UA along with an additional $3 million dollars from the Governor’s appropriation.
In 2019, with a vote of 19-1, Senator Giessel joined her colleagues in voting for an operating budget, which rejected the reductions proposed by the governor and provided $322m in funding for the UA system. Senator Giessel also voted with the entire Senate in passing the FY20 Capital Budget with $10m in deferred maintenance for the UA system. This amount was later reduced to $7.5m by the House and then reduced to $5m in the final voting. 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. Senator Giessel voted for HB2001 and for SB2002 for the capital budget.
Senator Giessel met with the Executive Committee of the UAA Faculty and Staff Association in August 2019.
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Giessel joined his 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
Representative Kaufman support of UA was minimum.
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.
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
Democrat, District G
State Senator 2018-present
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.
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Gray-Jackson 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 Gray-Jackson was the sponsor of SB 196 which would have allowed the wearing of tribal regalia at university and public school events such as graduation. The bill was referred to committee and did not pass. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
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)
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.
Senator Matt Claman
Republican, District H
State Representative 2015-2022
State Senator 2023-present
While Representative Claman does not highlight the university during meetings or with his communication he is supportive of UA.
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)
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 Claman voted yes. On March 28th, Representative Claman 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 Claman voted along with 34 of his colleagues for HB235 which reauthorized TVEP. As a member of the Community and Regional Affairs Committee, Representative Claman voted do pass on HB193 which would add a second verse to the Alaska’s State Song that is held in trust by the UA Foundation. HB193 was referred to State Affairs and no action was taken.
Senator Löki Tobin
Democrat, District I
State Senator 2023-Present
What critical roles do you see UAA playing in the state in the next two years?
UAA's most critical role in our state is being the catalyst for keeping working-age Alaskans in state. The data is clear: families and working age folks are leaving the state. The high cost of living, economic volatility, and lack of housing are some of the key factors. I suspect much of our population attrition can also be contributed to the weak ties folks who choose to leave have with our community. According to a UA Workforce Development report, 96.9% of graduates stay in Alaska. Going to school in Alaska keeps you in Alaska, whether it is because our public universities are deeply tied to our communities or because advanced training/degrees increase earning potential. Recruiting more folks to attend our public universities means more folks will stay in Alaska.
How do you see UAA serving the constituents in your district?
As a graduate of UAA's College of Arts and Sciences, I know UAA plays a significant role in training folks who work in hospitality and many of our community's fine establishments are located in downtown Anchorage, my district. It's delightful to see DJ Spencer Lee (who I worked with while serving on the UAA Concert Board) mixing it up on the Anchorage Museum front lawn. I often enjoy dinner out at the Captain Cook, where I know many UAA culinary students have honed their skills.
As the spouse of a graduate of the UAA Aviation Management program, I am also aware that a UAA campus is right in my backyard (we live in Fairview). It is clear that UAA is one of the chief trainers and employers of my district and along with the many other extracurricular activities UAA has to offer (consortium library, pool access, music, lectures, debates), UAA provides a critical service that almost every person I know accesses.
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 am a strong advocate of the UA system and I will continue in the legacy of my predecessor in fighting for increased UA funding. All of my close friends in Alaska are UA graduates, and that is not by coincidence. It is because of the critical role our public university system plays in keeping Alaskans in Alaska. Personally, I struggle with the closures of degree programs; I know that UA went through that process not by choice. It is my dream to see our university thrive and flourish, possibly reinstating programs that mean so very much to so many of us.
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?
As a former Resident Advisor for UAA, I strongly believe in properly maintaining student housing facilities. For many, an on-campus experience is a critical component of their academic journey. As the former chair of the UAA Concert Board, we need well-funded on campus theaters and art spaces centers to ensure our students receive a well-rounded education and exposure to diversity of thought. As a former classmate to many student-athletes, I know we need state-of-the-art facilities to ensure not only the safety of our students, but to attract the best athletic program candidates possible. As a former student of the College of Arts and Sciences, I cannot undersell the exemplary experience I had engaging in active research with many of my professors. The aesthetics of our UAA campus are as important as the physical safety of our students and the quality of the educators inside. We need to invest in the whole package to keep Alaskans in Alaska.
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Democrat, District I
State Senator 2023-Present
What critical roles do you see UAA playing in the state in the next two years?
As the son of two University of Alaska graduates who moved to Alaska specifically to attend UAF, I understand the powerful impact our universities can have on our community. Today, the field of economic development embraces a concept called “Campus as Catalyst.” That is, most of the thriving cities around the world have at least one large, high-quality university that is closely integrated with local industry and government.
I know that UAA can be a critical tool in reducing and reversing brain drain, and be an economic engine for Alaska’s jobs of the present and future. For example, I recently toured the UAA Aviation Technology Center, which has tremendous programs training pilots, maintainers, and aircraft controllers. But UAA goes beyond just vocational education; if Alaska is going to adapt to the 21st century and settle some of the issues and divisions that currently hold back our state, we need well-educated citizens and voters capable of having tough conversations in a civil manner. UAA will play a critical role in building those bridges and educating our body politic.
How do you see UAA serving the constituents in your district?
Given that UAA is in the heart of my district, and there are a great number of UAA employees, alumni, and students that live nearby, UAA is a great source of jobs, training opportunities, and educational services for my constituents. UAA is a positive source of entertainment too, and a force for community-building. During my time on the Assembly, I saw the university as a partner for the neighborhoods in my district, and I believe that will still be the case in the State Senate. Of course, in order to maximize UAA’s potential for serving my constituents, it needs to be both adequately funded and connected to the rest of the community via safe and convenient bike and pedestrian facilities, as well as public transportation (which is particularly important for folks in Muldoon). I am excited to see the results of Destination U-MED, and while I will have to leave AMATS if I win my State Senate race, I’m still hoping that we can find ways to partner between the University, the Municipality, the State, and the neighborhoods in order to bring in federal transportation and other infrastructure funds to improve those connections.
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?
For UAA to serve as a true community hub and ensure the equitable success of its students, it must be adequately funded. Like many Alaskans, I was deeply concerned by Governor Dunleavy’s proposed 2019 budget. As an Assembly Member I stood against cuts to public education and UAA. As a State Senator I will be a fierce advocate for fully funding the university and my door will always be open to UAA Faculty and staff who have ideas for how to improve the university, recruit and retain the best employees and students, and prevent further draconian cuts.
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?
I support capital funding from the State to maintain and enhance infrastructure at UAA. Students’ choice of major shouldn’t be impacted by which course has adequate facilities to meet their needs, nor can we let deferred maintenance continue to accumulate indefinitely, as it will only grow more expensive if we wait.
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Democrat, District K
State Senator 2006-present
Senator Wielechowski’s support of UA improved over last year.
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.
In 2020 Senator Wielechowski was supportive of UA as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. With a vote of 17-1, Senator Wielechowski joined his 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 Wielechowski’s office hosted a student intern from UAA. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
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)
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.
Senator Kelly Merrick
Republican, District L
Representative 2018-2022
Senator 2023-present
In 2021, Representative Merrick is to be commended for her joining the majority caucus which allowed for the House to begin its deliberations.
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, 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)
In 2020, as a member of the House Finance Committee Representative Merrick voted to remove the $10.5m for compensation increases for the universities which was approved by the university house 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 Merrick voted no. On March 28th, Representative Merrick 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 Merrick was excused from the house vote on HB235 which reauthorized TVEP.
Senator Shelley Hughes
Republican, District M
State Senator 2017-present
The Senator voted for the operating budget .
Of bills favorable to UA, she voted YES for SB32, YES on HB114, YES on HB127 and NO on HB 322.
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Hughes 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 Hughes sponsored a resolution supporting federal legislation to create the Arctic Department of Defense Regional Center for Security Studies. Senator Hughes’ office also hosted a student intern from UAF. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
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)
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.
Senator David Wilson
Republican, District N
State Senator 2017-present
Senator Wilson has been consistently supportive of UA over the last 3 years.
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.
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Wilson joined his 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.
As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Wilson also introduced an amendment adding intent language to the UA budget. The intent language would require UA to limit the indirect costs for federal grants billed to the Future Farmers of America Program, which is managed by the UAF Cooperative Extension Service. The amendment was adopted by a Senate vote of 10-9 and later adopted by the Conference Committee. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
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)
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. 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.
Senator Mike Shower
Republican, District O
State Senator 2018-present
Senator Shower’s support of UA was not consistent.
The Senator voted for the operating budget .
Of bills favorable to UA, he voted YES for SB32, YES on HB114, NO on HB127 and NO on HB 322.
In 2020, with a vote of 17-1, Senator Shower joined his 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 Shower sponsored SJR 19 which recommended that the chancellors would report directly to the UA Board of Regents. SJR 19 was referred to committee and did not pass. Senator Shower was the sole sponsor of SB 127 which would require UA to operate all of its satellite campuses online. The bill referred to committee and did not pass. The senator also voted for HB235 which reauthorized the funding for TVEP.
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)
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.