Dear Neighbor,

Fuel Prices on the Rise

The rising price of heating fuel and gasoline is the most pressing issues for the people of Fairbanks. While Alaska dominates the states in energy resources, families are paying far too much for heating oil and gas. Gas prices in Alaska are the highest in the nation, while there is a refinery in our own back yard! The whole situation doesn’t make sense to me or families across the Alaska that are trying to make ends meet during a tight economic times.

Rep. Petersen (D-Anchorage) and I have once again introduced price gouging legislation. The bill, HB25, would outlaw the practice of price gouging on gasoline and heating fuel which is critical to Alaskan survival and a strong economy. HB25 would prohibit Alaska’s major oil refineries from charging excessive prices, but does not set a price cap. If passed, the bill would start to give regular everyday citizens a fair price for our own natural resources.

Early Education on the Move

Studies show that quality early education in the home or at school can better prepare children to learn, make them more successful adults and identify learning disabilities with enough time to correct problems. Two bills to address the immediate need for quality early education in Alaska are House Bill 154, Alaska Pre-Elementary Education and House Bill 49, Parents as Teachers. Representative Chris Tuck (D-Anchorage) and I introduced these bills so parents and communities have better access to resources for Alaskan children and families.

Both bills passed out of House Education Committee and are now in House Finance. I will keep you updated on these bills as they continue to move through the Legislature. I would like to encourage your support of early education and ask you to consider doing the following:

• Send an email to me at rep.scott.kawasaki@legis.state.ak.us so I can make sure your testimony is part of the public record.
• Visit the Legislative Information Office at the AlaskaUSA Building near Home Depot and send a Public Opinion Message.
• Contact my office personally by phone at 907.456.7423.

Mark Your calendar
Constituent Meeting is coming up.
March 26th
From noon until 2:00 PM
At the Noel Wien Public Library

I will send out additional information and reminders. I look forward to seeing you there!

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative