 Calls on Legislators to Reauthorize RCA, Fund Pioneers' and Veterans' Homes June 24, 2002
"There is no need for much debate or additional hearings on these two issues; Legislators should pass the bills and resume their summer," Knowles said. "They should do the people's business in the minimum amount of time." According to the news release, Knowles called the special session because lawmakers failed to take action on two important pieces of legislation during the regular session. The Regulatory Commission of Alaska is a consumer-protection agency that regulates public utilities. Without reauthorization, the commission would expire and have one year to disband. Reauthorization of the RCA was passed by the House, but failed to get a single hearing in the Senate during the regular session. "The Regulatory Commission of Alaska performs an essential role in protecting the consumer in the setting of rates for public utilities," Knowles said. "Its work is too important to be left undone." Creation of the Pioneers' and Veteran' Homes system was a centerpiece of Knowles' "Year of the Veteran" legislative package. Lawmakers passed the name change and other provisions but failed to approve any funding. That meant unused beds in the Pioneers' and Veterans' homes would remain empty and not a single additional veteran would be assisted. "America's veterans took care of us when our nation called upon them. Now that they need help, it's our duty to take care of them," Knowles said. "Alaska is the only state in the nation without a veteran's home in operation or under construction. We can remedy this situation immediately by using existing space in the Pioneers' and Veterans' Homes." Since the bill that passed the Legislature was unfunded, veterans' groups originally recommended a veto of the bill, but after discussing the matter with the Governor, agreed to give lawmakers another chance to do it right. "I ask those Legislators to leave their political shrouds at home when they go to Juneau to decide on this issue," said Dean Hill, Commander of the American Legion's Department of Alaska. "I ask that you consider the good this appropriation will do for senior veterans and non-veterans alike. When casting your vote on this bill, I ask that you consider the sacrifices the veterans and their families have made for this country, and then I ask that you do what is right." The special session begins at 2 p.m. today.
Source of News Release:
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