On April 2, five Alaska State Senators joined together to create the Senate Coastal Caucus to bring greater focus to coastal policy issues within the Senate and the Alaska State Legislature. The bipartisan group consists of members representing Alaskans from Dixon Entrance to the Arctic coast. In addition to myself, the coastal caucus members are Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak; Donny Olson, D-Golovin; Dennis Egan, D-Juneau; and Peter Micciche, R-Soldotna.
I look forward to working within the caucus on issues important to coastal Alaskans, particularly energy. Energy is a key economic driver on the coast since most homes and businesses rely on expensive diesel fuel for heat. That has to change. We must do everything we can to increase access to more affordable energy to improve the economy and quality of life for coastal Alaskans. Other main areas of interest to the caucus are fisheries, marine transportation infrastructure, responsible resource development, education and public safety.
The group met regularly during the final days of the 2013 session and will meet occasionally during the interim.
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