ALASKA BUDGET

Apr 28 2026EDUCATION

School spending cuts hurt Anchorage students more than you think

Alaska’s school funding has dropped behind other states in a big way. While most states increased education spending by 26% from 2017 to 2022, Alaska only managed a 13% increase — barely enough to cover rising costs. Even when adjusted for Alaska’s high living expenses, the state still spends 15% le

reading time less than a minute
Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Alaska’s Dividend Debate: Balancing Checks and Cash

Alaska’s state budget talks just got heated over how much money each resident should get from the Permanent Fund dividend—a yearly cash payout meant to share oil wealth. A key committee voted 6-5 to move forward with a plan that could send residents around $3, 800 each, but only if they dip deep int

reading time less than a minute
Jan 08 2026POLITICS

Why Alaska's Budget Rules Need a Makeover

Alaska's budget process is stuck in the past. The state's constitution demands an unusually high threshold for overriding a governor's veto on budget matters. This rule, requiring three-fourths of legislators to agree, makes it tough for the public's voice to be heard. It's time to update this rule

reading time less than a minute