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As of this date, the 23rd. Alaska Legislature has introduced 181 bills and resolutions for consideration. Our volunteer research staff is grinding through this pile of legislation to identify whether the impact on our members will be positive of not. As we complete our research the results will be posted on the Alerts page for everyone to examine. Any legislation posted on the Alerts page will automatically trigger a permanent voting record on the Watchdog page.

The following is a partial list of bills being heard in committee next week. For a complete schedule of committee meetings click here, and the type appropriate dates in space provided. Seriously consider using the tools on our Links page to contact the legislature with your opinion on these bills.

HB 79 Extends the termination date of the Alaska regional economic assistance program. While no fiscal notes are attached, it will no doubt cost plenty if approved. Will be heard by the House Community and Regional Affairs Committee on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at 8:00 am.

SB 31 Will allow extending of the Alaska Railroad to connect with other North American Railroads. Includes provisions for the purchase of land in Canada for rail right of way. No cost estimate is included, but it will be a LOT! Will be heard by the Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday, February 11, at 11:30 am.

SJR 6 This proposed constitutional amendment would reduce legislative sessions to 90 days. This bill could save us $Billions! Will be heard by the Senate State Affairs Committee on Tuesday, February 11, at 3:30 pm.

SB 51 Increases the municipal bond bank debt ceiling. Will allow additional borrowing by cities and boroughs during our shrinking economy. Will be heard by the Senate Community and Regional Committee on Wednesday, February 12, at 1:30 pm.

HJR 7 Urges the United States Congress to amend the tax code to permanently repeal the federal estate and generation-skipping transfer tax. Will be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Friday, February 14, at 1:00 pm.

Alaska Voters founding member James Price will be on a radio talk show representing our group this Sunday, February 9th at 5:00pm. Tune into KBYR-AM 700 in Anchorage to hear the history and goals of Alaska Voters explained in detail, plus tips for using the powerful tools on our web site. There will be the opportunity for people to call in with questions, and to discus the issues so important to us all.

Members in other communities around the state are encouraged to arrange similar events. Our main office can provide plenty of support material for anyone interested in doing a radio talk show in your town. Contact us for details.

1. Should the State of Alaska pass a resolution rejecting all or part of the Federal Patriot Act (22 cities have already passed a similar resolution.)?

2. Do you want the Alaska National Guard to join with the Alaska State troopers in day to day law enforcement activities?

3. Should the legislature authorize a publicly funded privately operated prison?

Go to the home page now and tell us how you feel about the above questions. If you have suggestions for future survey questions, feel free to email them to us.

Please forward this message to everyone you know in Alaska, and ask them to do the same. Everyone is welcome and strongly encouraged to join AK Voters. Joining is absolutely FREE, and each member automatically receives future issues of the "Spotlight on Juneau ". Working together we CAN and WILL make a positive difference for Alaska's future!

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