(Anchorage) - Senate President Gene Therriault (R-North Pole) announced recommended changes to the committee assignments of Majority members for newly appointed Senator Bert Stedman (R-Sitka). Stedman was sworn into office November 20th, replacing retiring Senator Robin Taylor. Therriault's recommendations must be approved by the Senate Committee on Committees and go to the full Senate for confirmation.

"Last session, the Senate organization worked cooperatively and successfully. I have every reason to believe this reorganization will work out just as well," said Sen. Gene Therriault.

Under the proposal, Sen. Stedman will Chair the Community & Regional Affairs Committee, replacing Sen. Tom Wagoner (R-Kenai), who will remain on that committee. Sen. Wagoner will become co-chair of the Transportation Committee along with Sen. John Cowdery (R-Anchorage). As previously announced, Sen. Fred Dyson (R-Eagle River) will join the Finance Committee. It is expected Sen. Stedman will be named to the State Affairs Committee as well as the Salmon Industry Task Force. Other adjustments may be made to joint committees and task forces when session convenes in January.

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