The Southeast Conference held their annual mid-session summit in Juneau from March 12th-14th. I spoke to the Conference on March 13th and addressed various issues in front of the legislature this session. I gave updates on the Gasline bill, education funding, the need for an equity infusion to reduce the unfunded liability in the state’s retirement system, and loan programs for Southeast through the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority. I also talked at length about my concern regarding the Alaska Marine Highway System. We need to continue setting money aside to replace our aging fleet, starting with the Tustumena. There is currently $40 million in the marine highway vessel replacement fund but needs an additional $100 million to replace the Tustumena. We also need to ensure that our ships are constructed in the Ketchikan shipyard, not Louisiana. I always enjoy it when the Southeast Conference comes to Juneau during the session. It’s a great opportunity for me to speak to community leaders from all over Southeast and listen to their concerns.
Senator Stedman addresses the Southeast Conference
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