Alaska Legislators Fail to Override Governor’s Veto, $87M School Funding in Jeopardy, US

Undeterred by heavy snowfall, Alaska House Republicans voted against overriding Governor Mike Dunleavy’s veto of $87 million in school funding as the legislative session commenced. The vote fell short by one, resulting in a 20-20 tie. House Minority Leader Calvin Schrage emphasized the financial struggles faced by Alaska’s education system and the lack of support from the state. However, the Republican majority caucus focused on long-term funding solutions rather than a one-time increase. Rep. Craig Johnson scheduled a hearing on a revised education funding bill that includes various provisions such as increased benefits for students with special needs and bonuses for certain teachers. The bill is expected to be amended and reach a final floor vote in the House before negotiations with the Senate in a conference committee. The Senate, controlled by a bipartisan supermajority, was anticipated to support a joint session if the House did so first. Alaska’s constitution allows five days to call a joint session for a veto override, providing the House minority with the opportunity to continue their efforts. While ordinary business is set to open with hearings on oil and gas production, the education funding bill will be a significant test for improving relations between the House and Senate.