In addition to health and education, support for public broadcasting is important, as we need a non-commercial window to regional, national and international programming and news. The state Arts Council is also crucial. Imagination and innovation are infinite resources, building bridges of understanding and inspiring our diverse population. The leverage of state support is needed to be eligible for Lower 48 grants and government funding.
It is imperative to restore state climate change policies as we have a front row with center seats and cannot turn a blind eye.
Many Alaskans are willing to generate revenue through progressive income and sales taxes (at least in the summer tourist season), reconsidering the oil industry credits, and by sharing a more modest dividend to support services eliminated in the governor’s budget, including the rehabilitation and re-entry programs for incarcerated citizens.
Thanks to the House and Senate Finance Committees for being pragmatic and visionary, rather than accepting short-term solutions for future generations.
— Sandy Harper
Anchorage
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