(JUNEAU)—Legislation introduced today by Senate President Ben Stevens, R- Anchorage, would provide $337 million to address critical maintenance and construction needs of education facilities across Alaska.

"This legislation represents a real commitment from all Alaskans to maintain and build classrooms, science labs and learning opportunities for current and future students," said Sen. Stevens.

Senate Bill 155 transfers the following amounts from the earnings of the Permanent Fund: $212,688,471 for K-12 maintenance and new construction, and $124,500,000 to the University of Alaska and other projects that benefit the education of all Alaskans.

"Every Alaskan family that has benefited or plans to benefit from Alaska's public school and University system should support our effort to improve education opportunities throughout Alaska," said Sen. Stevens.

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Gary Wilken, John Cowdery, Ralph Seekins, Lyda Green, Con Bunde, Gary Stevens and Tom Wagoner.

According to projections provided by the Legislative Finance Division, the transfers made in SB 155 would have less than 1 percent effect on Permanent Fund Dividends over a 15-year period.

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