Commend the work of the legislature for passing HB 96

To the editor:

I am writing as a member of the Local Organizing Ministry from St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Palmer Alaska and a member of Valley Interfaith Action.

I would like to commend the work of the legislature this year in passing unanimously a HB 96.

This bill was introduced by Representative Zak Fields of Anchorage and cosponsored by members of the House and the Senate.

HB 96 will give predictability and continuity in the raising of rates at the Veterans and Pioneer Homes in Alaska. HB 96 will give the Division of Health and Social Services direction in raising, or lowering, rates based on Cost of Living, Medicare/Medicaid/ and Social Security as well as the resident’s financial ability. HB 96 would go into effect July 1, 2020.

I would urge Governor Dunleavy to sign this bill into law as soon as possible in order for the residents of the Veteran’s and Pioneer Homes to find support and security in their residential homes during this time of unease and financial worry.

Katherine Bishop

St. Michael’s Local Organizing Ministry, Palmer Alaska

Chairperson forValley Interfaith Action