Alaska House GOP Blocks $373M Disaster Relief

0:00On this March 13th in Anchorage, here's what is making headlines. Alaska House Republicans blocked a plan to tap state savings for $373 million in disaster relief and transportation. Projects? They argue that surging oil prices from global tensions will bring in enough extra revenue to cover the costs without touching the reserve fund, which holds about $3 billion. The Senate approved the draw unanimously on Wednesday, but the House vote failed Thursday by at 22 to 18 margin. Only one Republican joined the bipartisan majority in favor, as the minority holds out for an updated revenue forecast due Friday. Majority leaders worry oil prices are too unpredictable to bank on. Even at $92 per barrel, now versus the fall forecast of $65. Dollars? They say we're lying on volatile forecasts, risks leaving urgent needs unfunded, like summer road projects that need federal matching dollars. The supplemental budget bill itself passed the House unanimously and includes $70 million for transportation, $98 million for

1:05fire suppression, up to $75 million for storm relief, and $130 million to refill a higher education fund. Now the bill is stuck in committee until funding is secured, with both sides accusing each other of fiscal gamesmanship. Tensions are high halfway through the session, echoing past oil spikes from conflicts like Russia's Ukraine invasion. This story is shared with support from our sponsor. A pillow that sounds as good as it feels, built for listening and bed, S-O-L-L-I-S-O-L-I-SOL-I-PILLO.com.