Capitol Report for Feb. 7

Budget Process Continues
Governor Dunleavy introduced his FY20 Supplemental Budget this week. Lawmakers use supplemental spending bills to cover unforeseen expenses incurred by state government since passage of the previous year’s spending plan. This year’s supplemental is a record $507 million in total funds, and addresses funding issues with Medicaid, the Alaska Marine Highway System, and the response to last summer’s fire season.

UA President Jim Johnsen, in Juneau Wednesday, Feb. 5, met with lawmakers and advocated for the university’s budget request. The president also presented before a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, sitting as a committee of the whole, to review UA’s FY21 Operating Budget. You can view the full hearing here.

UA’s House Finance Subcommittee held two hearings this week, taking a deeper look at aspects of university operations. On Tuesday, Vice President Michelle Rizk and Chief Financial Officer Myron Dosch presented details on the university budget and finances. You can view the hearing here. On Thursday, representatives from each campus presented on facility deferred maintenance. Thank you to Kim Mahoney, Cameron Wohlford, Nathan Leigh, and Ryan Bucholdt for participating in the hearing. You can view the meeting here.

The House Subcommittee process will continue next week with two hearings. On Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 5 p.m., Vice President Paul Layer and Executive Dean Steve Atwater will present on UA’s efforts to increase enrollment and enhance teacher training and retention. On Thursday, Feb. 13 at 5 p.m., Associate Vice President Teri Cothren will present UA’s work in the area of career and technical education and workforce development.