Sean Parnell, Alaska, Governor, ACES, oil tax reform, Photo by Dave HarbourFrom Governor Parnell’s Office.  Following the close of the first session of the 28th Alaska Legislature, Governor Sean Parnell (NGP Photo) today thanked legislators and highlighted the successful passage of many of his key priorities to improve Alaska. Reforming Alaska’s oil tax structure, providing cheaper energy to Interior and rural communities, reducing payroll tax increases, exercising fiscal restraint, and protecting Alaskan families led the governor’s agenda this session.

Alaska’s Oil Production Comeback
 
"After thoughtful analysis and debate, legislators passed Senate Bill 21", a statement from his office said today, "Governor Parnell’s bill to create a prosperous future for Alaskans though increased production. This legislation simplifies Alaska’s oil tax structure and provides the right balance for Alaskans at both high and low oil prices. Senate Bill 21 significantly improves Alaska’s competitive standing."
 
“This session, we took major steps to grow our economy and create opportunities for Alaskans,” Governor Parnell said. “Senate Bill 21 sets the course for an oil production comeback on the North Slope. I thank the many Alaskans from across the state who made their voices heard and testified on the importance of oil tax reform and what it means to their future.”
 
The Legislature also passed the governor’s permitting legislation. House Bill 129 and Senate Bill 27 will give Alaskans more say over the permitting process.
 
Interior Energy Plan
 
Additionally, the Legislature passed the governor’s Interior Energy Plan, which will provide cheaper energy to the Interior and Alaska’s road and river communities. Senate Bill 23 puts in place a financing package for natural gas liquefaction on the North Slope and a distribution system, in conjunction with private sector financing. 
Last week, Parnell complimented the Legislature on passage of gas pipeline legislation.  “Alaskans have had to wait too long to get their gas,” Governor Parnell said. “I commend Representative Hawker and Speaker Chenault for spearheading this legislation to get Alaska’s gas to Alaskans first, then to markets beyond.”