House working to add Wrangell fisheries and children's services jobs
The Alaska Legislature is more than halfway through session, and I am happy to report a few successes in the legislative budget process that will benefit Wrangell residents.
Last year, Wrangell officials came to me with an idea to create a social worker position that would be funded partially through the state and partially through local means. We were able to add a part-time Office of Children's Services caseworker for Wrangell in last year's budget, but it was vetoed by the governor. We are trying again this year and, so far, the position is included in the House version of the Department of Health and Social Services budget.
Recently, the governor has also cut and vetoed funding for the Wrangell Fish and Game office. I am working hard to include funding for that office in the budget and, as of right now, it is included in the House version of the Fish and Game budget.
Lastly, I am the chair of the Department of Transportation Finance Subcommittee, which means I have the leading role in guiding that budget in the House. I was able to include recommendation language in this year's budget to provide Alaska Marine Highway System service to Wrangell anytime a stop is scheduled for Petersburg.
The House Finance Committee is hearing public testimony on the budget from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, and again from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. You can give testimony during those times by calling toll-free 844-586-9085, or you can send written testimony any time to House.Finance@AKLeg.gov.
After the budget passes the House Finance Committee, it will go to the House floor and then to the Senate. Changes can still occur, but we have started off strong and I am happy that all of these items are included in the budget.
If you have any comments or questions regarding the budget, email or call me at Rep.Dan.Ortiz@AKLeg.gov or 907-465-3824.
Rep. Dan Ortiz
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