(JUNEAU) - The House Majority adjusted its committee assignments today to fill the vacancy left by Senate appointee Gary Stevens (R-Kodiak). The Majority assigned Rep. Mike Chenault (R-Nikiski/Ninilchik/Sterling) to Stevens' former seat on the House Finance Committee.

"The caucus was sensitive, not only to experience but geographical region that Rep. Chenault represents," House Speaker Pete Kott (R-Eagle River) said. "That's been pretty much the way the House Republican Caucus has demonstrated its ability to ensure that there's equal representation around the state."

Chenault is in his second term in the House. He has served on several Finance subcommittees that include Health & Social Services, Natural Resources, Public Safety, Corrections, and Military & Veterans Affairs.

"I have sought the position since being elected," Chenault said. "I think it shows the Majority Caucus agrees that regional representation on Finance and on other committees is important to the caucus."

Chenault vacates his position as co-Chair of the Resources Committee. The House awaits the governor's appointment to the seat left open by Stevens before it makes any more committee assignments.

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02-20-03: House Speaker Pete Kott explains why Rep. Mike Chenault is a good replacement for Senate appointee Gary Stevens on the Finance Committee.

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Pete Kott 46 K

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Pete Kott 314 K

02-20-03: Rep. Mike Chenault explains his enthusiasm for being assigned to the Finance Committee.

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Mike Chenault 40 K

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Mike Chenault 273 K