Dear Friends,
February marks Black History Month, a celebration of Black achievements, culture, and history that has been observed annually in the United States since 1926. What began as "Negro History Week" proposed by noted historian Carter G. Woodson has grown into a month-long observance highlighting the many important contributions Black Americans have made to our society.
Black History Month is an important reminder that Black history is American history. For far too long, the stories, triumphs, and struggles of Black people were left out of or marginalized in mainstream historical accounts. Designating this time each year raises awareness of Black pioneers in civil rights, science, arts, sports, and more. It inspires Black youth by showing them role models who overcame immense adversity. And it encourages all Americans to learn about the integral role Black culture has played in shaping our national identity.
Black History Month also connects to Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, the date in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally received news of their emancipation. Juneteenth honors the end of slavery in the United States and is a reminder that the fight for Black freedom and civil rights has been long. It serves as a bridge between Black History Month and continuing advocacy throughout the year. My bill relating to Juneteenth will be heard next week, on Tuesday at 10 AM during the House Finance Committee meeting. If you're interested in calling in and offering testimony, please call my staff using the contact information below.
Overall, Black History Month and Juneteenth are important occasions to learn about and celebrate Black achievements and reflect on how far we still must go as a society to create an equitable future for people of all races.
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Meet our Newest Staff
My name is Luma Diaz, I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and moved to Juneau, AK after graduating from high school. I have been living in the state for more than 15 years. I enjoy exploring nature with friends, going camping, and traveling. Some of my hobbies are practicing silks, handstands, and anything circus-related. This is my 2nd session working for the Senator and I am very grateful to be working for such a smart and empowered Senator.
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State of the State
In the Governor's State of the State address on January 30th, Governor Dunleavy highlighted resource development and the expansion of public charter schools but did not provide a detailed strategy for addressing the state's pressing public school funding crisis or the challenges of balancing the state budget. The Governor's proposals, such as reducing royalties on natural gas production in Cook Inlet and improving electrical infrastructure, are necessary steps forward that I support but they do not fully address the broader fiscal challenges facing Alaska.
Despite this, there remains a strong commitment within the Legislature to actively address these issues. A key priority is the need to raise the Base Student Allocation (BSA) for public schools, ensuring that our schools have the necessary resources to provide high-quality education. This is not just an investment in our children but in the future of our state. Furthermore, finding a solution to the state's budget shortfall remains a top priority. The Senate majority caucus is dedicated to working with the Governor, the House, constituents, and across party lines to develop and implement sustainable solutions that will secure the financial stability and prosperity of Alaska. This collaborative effort is essential to overcoming the current challenges and building a stronger foundation for future generations.
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Base Student Allocation
The latest version of Senate Bill 140 in Alaska contains a proposal to increase the state's base student allocation (BSA) by $300. This proposal has received criticism from school districts, which have requested a $1,413 per-student increase to account for inflation - it has not been increased since FY 2017. The bill has undergone numerous amendments and debates, and there is ongoing pressure from educators, parents, and students to increase the funding for public schools. The bill also involves other education-related proposals, including bonus payments for teachers, a new approval process for charter schools, funding for student transportation, improved internet in rural classrooms, and more help for students who are deaf and hard of hearing. The situation remains uncertain as the bill moves through the legislative process, and the House could begin voting on amendments soon. The proposed $300 increase to the BSA is considered insufficient by many stakeholders, and the bill's passage is subject to negotiation with the Senate.
Notably, protestors gathered outside the Alaska State Capitol to rally for a school funding increase. Our work on this issue illustrates ongoing discussions and potential changes regarding education funding in the state. I am honored to be supporting an increase in the BSA.
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Retirement in Alaska
Alaska Senate Bill 88 (SB 88), relates to the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska and the teachers' retirement system. The bill provides employees with an opportunity to choose between a defined benefit and defined contribution plan of the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska and the teachers' retirement system. The bill is sponsored by 11 Senators from the bipartisan majority.
SB 88 is important for Alaskans because it addresses the state's retirement system for public employees, specifically related to the choice between defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Proponents of the bill argue that a defined benefit retirement system (commonly known as a pension) would improve recruitment and retention of state employees. They claim that the existing 401(k)-style defined contribution system makes it difficult to retain and recruit public employees, leading to issues such as a lack of public guardians for disabled or handicapped Alaskans.
The passage or rejection of SB 88 will have a significant impact on the retirement options available to public employees in Alaska and could influence the state's budget and fiscal responsibility. The bill now goes to the House for Committee hearings and a vote.
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If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to my office at:
Besse Odom
Chief of Staff
907-465-6853
Luma Diaz
Legislative Aide
907-465-4930
Jeff Stepp
Legislative Council Aide
907-465-4068
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I’m Senator Elvi, always.....
"Listening and Representing Your Interests!”
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