Alaska State Legislature

News From The Senate and House Majorities

State Capitol Ken Freeman (907) 465-3804
Juneau, AK 99801 Wendy Lindskoog (907) 465-4582
Actuality line: 1-800-478-6540

For Immediate Release: January 14, 1997 Contact: Ken Freeman (907) 465-3804, Wendy Lindskoog (907) 465-4582

Republican-led Majorities Announce Commitment to Alaska for a Smaller, Smarter Government

JUNEAU - Promising a smaller, smarter government, Senate and House Leaders Tuesday presented their Commitment to Alaska, a list of priority issues to be addressed throughout the 20th Alaska Legislature.

"Alaskans have repeatedly sent one message to Legislators -- continue downsizing government," said House Speaker Gail Phillips. "For this reason, our number one commitment is to close the fiscal gap through the continued implementation of our five-year fiscal plan. Alaska's financial future is critical to so many other issues affecting our state."

"Measurable goals are essential," said Senate President Mike Miller. "By presenting our Commitment to Alaska in writing, we are saying 'We will give you a way to monitor our performance and we will accomplish this agenda'."

"Good paying jobs are the foundation of Alaska's families," said Senator Miller.

"That's why enhancing Alaska's business climate and promoting economic and resource development is a cornerstone of our agenda."

Legislative leaders noted that other issues topping the commitment include education reform and safe neighborhoods. Phillips said educating Alaska's children will spell success for Alaska's future generations.

"We are working to establish certifiable standards of achievements for every student graduating from Alaska's high schools. Proficiency in reading, writing and arithmetic will become essential for a high school diploma," said Phillips.

"Improving the quality of life is what we are striving to achieve," said Senator Miller. "We will continue our emphasis on juvenile justice and prevention programs and protection for victims of domestic violence and child abuse."

Miller and Phillips said that protecting state's rights and the permanent fund and addressing the state's long-term maintenance needs are also an integral part of the Leadership's Commitment.

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