Politics

Alaska AFL-CIO opposes Stand for Salmon ballot measure, calling it bad for economy

The Alaska AFL-CIO on Friday announced it had unanimously voted to oppose Ballot Measure 1, known as the Stand for Salmon initiative set to appear on the Nov. 6 ballot.

The organization, which includes labor unions across Alaska, said it also decided at its convention in Fairbanks to join the Stand for Alaska–Vote No on 1 coalition that opposes the measure.

The Stand for Salmon measure could hurt the state's ability to get out of the recession Alaska is in, the group said.

[Alaska Supreme Court rules initiative can appear on ballot, after changes.]

Supporters of the measure say it will protect salmon and other fish, without hurting the Alaska economy.

"Ballot Measure 1 is wrong for Alaska and is bad for jobs. It's that simple," said Vince Beltrami, AFL-CIO of Alaska president, in a prepared statement.

"This measure could shut down current operations and future projects throughout Alaska," he said. "Alaska is still in a recession and we've lost jobs. We oppose Ballot Measure 1 because it threatens the livelihoods of our more than 50,000 members."

Alex DeMarban

Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or alex@adn.com.

ADVERTISEMENT