Republicans Pass Budget, Democrats Cry Foul

Minority Dems object to cuts for education, behavioral health

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By Bill McAllister
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Story Created: Mar 14, 2013 at 4:38 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Mar 14, 2013 at 6:16 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - The House of Representatives approved an operating budget for the next fiscal year, over the objections of minority Democrats who said it does not do enough for schoolchildren and people who need behavioral health services.

According to the Republican-led House majority, it's time for austerity in state budgeting.

"This budget is the first step in getting our fiscal house in order," said Representative Steve Thompson, R-Fairbanks.

"This budget begins the process of slowing the growth of state government,” said Representative Alan Austerman, R-Kodiak, co-chair of the House Finance Committee.

But for most of the nearly four-hour debate, Republicans were on the defensive against accusations that they are standing by while Alaskans' quality of life erodes.

Among several failed amendments, Democrats sought to restore funding cuts in pre-kindergarten programs.

Representative Harriet Drummond, D-Anchorage, said, "Children who attend pre-K perform better, graduate high school in larger numbers, go to college in larger numbers, commit less crime, earn more as adults and end up in jail less."

Representative Tammie Wilson, R-North Pole, responded: "Absolutely, pre-K is valuable, and that's why we offer so many different opportunities in the state so that parents can pick the program that best matches their work schedule."

There also was concern about an $8 million cut in behavioral health care grants.

Warned Representative Scott Kawasaki, D-Fairbanks: "It'll have a ripple effect with the folks that are the most vulnerable populations of children, the most vulnerable populations of seniors and those who are the least among us."

"There's nobody that wants to cut funding to kids that are disabled, mentally handicapped, to seniors,” said Representative Mark Neuman, R-Big Lake, who oversaw the health and social services budget. “Nobody wants to do that. But it's going to get worse, it's going to get more difficult if we do not take steps today."

The bill passed 29-to-8 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Part of the push for austerity comes from expectations of less oil revenue, due to Governor Parnell’s bill to reduce the production tax.

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pre said on Sunday, Mar 17 at 7:26 PM

Pre_k is a waste of money. No data to support what the dems are spouting. Pre k is just free day care so the parents can continue to do nada with their kids earlier. let the kids eat glue at home. If pre k was so great then why are libs so, well, you get the point.

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midnitesun731 said on Sunday, Mar 17 at 3:39 PM

I wonder why the cuts always go to the most vulnerable? Why is it republicans are only worried or behind any social programs if it is someone in their own family that needs these services.

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save our city said on Sunday, Mar 17 at 5:09 AM

Is that they only thing the cry baby Dem's can say......the budget will hurt disabled kids and elderly. Thats the same things the Dem's in Washington are crying about. Really???

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Raven33 said on Thursday, Mar 14 at 11:50 PM

Now if we could only get the Feds to follow suit!

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