Juneau -- While much of official and unofficial Alaska spent Saturday wishing this year's Iditarod mushers Godspeed, the House Finance Committee and concerned people from across the state came together for almost 12 hours of teleconferenced testimony on the Fiscal Year 2001 operating and mental health budgets.

"We're very gratified that so many Alaskans took the time out of their weekends to go to their local Legislative Information Offices to participate in our budget deliberations," said Representative Gene Therriault (R-North Pole), House Finance Committee Co-Chair. "Since the Republican-led Majority has made government downsizing its priority, it is imperative that we keep in touch with members of the public to hear their concerns."

"While much has been made in the press and elsewhere about the supposed 'do-nothing' nature of the current session, anyone familiar with the intricacies of the legislative process knows that the lion's share of the work is done in committee and in subcommittees," said Representative Eldon Mulder (R-Anchorage), House Finance Committee Co-Chair. "This year's budget process is running over a month ahead of last year's pace. Last year the annual public teleconference was conducted on April 6, so this year's March 4th hearing is a reflection of our commitment to making the process work for Alaskans."

The full House Finance Committee is due to begin its deliberations on the budget Monday, March 6. Last year, the committee began its work April 7th, while in 1998 committee consideration did not begin until April 15th.

The Legislature is required by law to pass a budget for the coming fiscal year.

Broadcasters note: Audio comments are available on the Majority Actuality line, 1-800-478-6540
= Eldon Mulder, 30 K = Gene Therriault, 76 K