For decades, Alaska has operated under a fiscal and budgeting system unlike any other state, and some could argue any place in the world. It is a system at the mercy of volatility, political discretion, and short-term decision-making.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy delivered his eighth and final State of the State address Thursday evening.

The second session of the 34th Alaska State Legislature began Tuesday.

The Department of Natural Resources will continue to gather community input on the potential establishment of a Kenai Peninsula State Forest during a meeting on Tuesday at Kachemak Bay Campus.

Like many Alaskans, I was caught off guard when meetings were announced about the idea of creating a state forest on the Kenai Peninsula. Since then, it has been very encouraging to see how many people care deeply about the public lands that are such an important part of our lives. I feel the same way. Protecting access to the places where we camp, fish, hunt, snowmachine, and explore with our families is something I take to heart.

The Department of Natural Resources is proposing changes to regulations related to material sales and conveyances to state agencies.

DNR is gathering community perspectives during several meetings this week.

“I told the president, it’s like Christmas every morning,” Gov. Mike Dunleavy said at last week’s staged event in Washington, D.C., where the Department of Interior secretary signed off on federal approvals to expand oil drilling, mining and road building in Alaska.

Strategy development for the project follows a public proposal introduced in 2023.

Bill passed by 48-11 vote — eight more than needed — but same count for override not certain.