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Alaskan legislators will prioritize advocating for new Cook Inlet natural gas to improve Alaska Beacon.

Alaska Legislature Continues Focus on Energy

Last year’s session of the Alaska Legislature put a big focus on energy and alleviating an impending shortage of the Cook Inlet natural gas that powers the most populous part of the state. This year, even with some changes in membership, Alaskans can expect the same focus from the Legislature, leading lawmakers said at a resource industry forum in Anchorage.

Incoming House Speaker Bryce Edgmon discussed a follow-up to last year’s bill that modernized the utility system along the Railbelt, benefiting from federal funds for energy upgrades. Rep. Andy Josephson supported reduced Cook Inlet royalties, acknowledging past negative consequences of financial incentives for producers.

Lawmakers plan to address the lack of Cook Inlet producers’ access to a jack-up rig, while also focusing on the mining industry and critical mineral needs. Senate President Gary Stevens urged more attention to the seafood industry, noting the importance of representing all resources, not just oil and gas or mining.

Challenges remain in crafting a budget during a time of diminished revenues, with Sen. Jesse Bjorkman emphasizing the need to move past the idea of a supersized Permanent Fund dividend as an entitlement. Investing in roads, schools, public safety, and the state overall is crucial, he said.

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Photo credit alaskabeacon.com

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