Sponsor Statement for HB 171

The drafters of the Alaska Constitution clearly intended that it be the policy of the state to encourage responsible development through wise use of our resources.

HB 171 renames the Department of Environmental Conservation to the Department of Environmental Development to send a strong reminder that government exists for one reason -- to serve the needs of the people.

By changing the Department of Environmental Conservation into a user-friendly department, we can protect our precious environment while encouraging responsible development. This will provide a health statewide economy now and for generations to come.

HB 171 will give the Department of Environmental Conservation a clear direction that their mission is, and always has been, to assist the public in responsible and environmentally sound development -- not hinder this development through oppressive and formidable roadblocks.

This legislation is not an attempt to relax environmental standards at the expense of the environment. By changing the name of the department, and its Declaration of Policy, we will redirect its course to accomplish our goals of environmental protection and responsible development.

As always, the health and safety of our people and the protections of our natural environment will remain our primary goals. This should be accomplished in the most professional and efficient manner possible. This approach will assist the public in its endeavor for economic development while providing for the protection of our environment, the safety of our people, and jobs for Alaskans.