(Juneau) - The House Finance Committee passed the Operating Budget, HB 365, out of committee yesterday evening.

The Operating Budget that passed the committee reduced the Governor's request by over $120 million in general funds. The Finance Subcommittees looked at the Governor's budget and were very cautious about funding new or expanded programs or backfilling programs experiencing a loss of federal funds.

The budget includes $146 million to fully fund Medicaid Growth, $1.3 million for the Narcotics Task Force and $7 million for Developmental Disability Waivers.

"The executive branch had the opportunity to present and defend their budget for each department through the subcommittee process. In addition, we heard from over 200 Alaskans during three days of public testimony," said Representative Mike Chenault (R-Nikiski). "The subcommittees and now the full committee have made very hard choices in an effort to maintain a sustainable budget for Alaska. The Governor sent us an unsustainable budget and we are trying to act responsibly for our future. There are too many unknowns, including the price of oil, and the Governor set the bar too high."

"We want to slow the rate of increase to the budget to make sure that we can sustain these budgets into the future. It's our job to make sure we have the most efficient and effective government possible while making the necessary investments into programs that Alaskans need," said Representative Kevin Meyer (R-Anchorage).

The Operating Budget is expected to be before the full House next week.

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