(JUNEAU) - The Legislature approved a $2.3 billion general fund operating budget today that gives the State the tools to efficiently and effectively address critical needs, particularly in the areas of public safety and education, while only drawing approximately $335 million from the State's savings account.

"This operating budget demonstrates the good cooperative working relationship between the House and Senate. We were able to fulfill our obligation to fully fund education and increase funds for public safety and public health," said House Finance Co-Chair John Harris. "We worked together to put more money into maintaining and upgrading our transportation systems throughout the state and tried to contain general fund spending as we look for new revenue measures."

Senate Finance Co-Chair Lyda Green said, "The scrutiny and review that took place on every component of this budget through committees, sub-committees, the conference committee and debate on the floor has resulted in a very good product."

Although contained in a separate bill, the State's overall spending plan increases public K-12 education by $82 million and funding for the University of Alaska by $15.8 million, including $5.8 million for the public employees' and teachers' retirement systems. This is the single largest increase to education in the State's history.

The Legislature provided a total of $22.7 million to capitalize the SeniorCare Program to ensure funding until Medicare changes come on line in 2006, with $14.9 million in the operating budget and $7.8 million in a separate spending measure. The operating budget also fully funds the Power Cost Equalization program at $15.7 million.

In the area of public safety, the Legislature added 20 new troopers, increased the Driving Under the Influence enforcement team, and with the reorganization of the Department of Corrections, was able to provide adequate staffing at prisons and fund the inmate health care program.

The Department of Law received funding for seven prosecutors and three child-in-need-of-aid attorneys, and with the receipt of federal funds, will be able to increase the Community Gun Violence Program and multi-jurisdictional drug grants.

The Public Defender's Agency received six new public defenders. The Office of Public Advocacy was able to revise its administrative practices and add four public advocates. Recognizing the increased burden on the Alaska Court System, the Legislature also provides the funding necessary to meet the increased caseload.

The Department of Health and Social Services has made great strides in attaining cost efficiencies while still providing services to the elderly, disadvantaged and disabled.

The budget provides ample funding for the agencies responsible for resource development such as increased land sales, improved permitting and review of gas line proposals. In the areas of economic development, the budget expands marketing for the Alaska Grown and Produced program and centralizes trade functions to more efficiently promote Alaska worldwide.

The Legislature also passed House Bill 377, which funds the state's comprehensive integrated mental health program.

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