Letters to the Editor

Letter: Toward a new economy

It is normal for us to be absorbed with the immediate fallout of the coronavirus crisis. When we are ready, we will start looking towards the future.

The state of Alaska allows for some circumstances where Alaskans can receive unemployment benefits and participate in school or job training at the same time. While brick-and-mortar institutions have been shuttered, many online learning opportunities remain. There is also money available from the state for Alaskans to use to pursue job training.

Once the initial shock of the current losses settles, some Alaskans may find opportunities for career change. Alaskans can take this time to learn new skills that will help us to build a new economy after this is over.

The state of Alaska should be as liberal as possible in allowing Alaskans to pursue educational opportunities and receive unemployment benefits at the same time. The state should also fast-track its application process for Alaskans to pursue training opportunities using state funds.

The dust will settle, and we will remain the resilient, resourceful and creative people we have been.

— Allison M. Sayer

Valdez

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