Alaska Legislature

On today’s episode of the Kenai Conversation, we’re joined by the central Kenai Peninsula’s Alaska State Legislative delegation – Reps. Bill Elam and Justin Ruffridge, and Sen. Jesse Bjorkman.

The Kenai Peninsula Borough wants to limit how much property assessments increase each year in response to recent, significant year-over-year surges.

Ruffridge says he’ll be tasked with managing the inner workings of an ideologically diverse caucus.

Lawmakers stressed the importance of public input – both in general and regarding the work of the task force specifically. The group is required to submit a report of its findings and make recommendations in 2027.

The Alaska Legislature on Saturday overrode Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s partial veto of education money lawmakers approved last session.

Representative Justin Ruffridge spoke on Wednesday about his recent legislative efforts ahead of a special legislative session in Juneau this weekend.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy asked members of the House Minority Caucus not to attend the first five days of a special legislative session he scheduled for next month to avoid potential veto overrides.

Representative Bill Elam spoke last week about his 2025 legislative efforts, which ranged from education funding to the Alaska LNG Project.

Senator Jesse Bjorkman spoke this week about his 2025 legislative efforts, which ranged from education funding to insurance measures.

The Big Game Commercial Services Board says the position is needed to help process applications, register guides and support the board.