Letters to the editor

Concerned about Food Security and Farm Protection Act

To the editor:

The recently proposed Food Security and Farm Protection Act, a federal bill that’s identical to the previously introduced EATS Act, has us deeply concerned at Alaska’s Harvest. While this bill claims to bolster food security, what it actually does is strip states like Alaska of the ability to make their own decisions about agriculture and the safety of our food.

It would hand over control of food and farming policies to Washington, D.C., undermining the work that local producers and policymakers have done to safeguard Alaska’s unique agricultural landscape. That’s a real threat to responsible farms and the communities we nourish.

We raise sheep in Palmer, and we know that Alaska’s geography, climate, and food supply chains are like no other. Our state needs the flexibility to set standards that reflect those realities, not one-size-fits-all rules from Congress.

I hope Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and Representative Nick Begich will protect state and local authority over agriculture and vote no on the Food Security and Farm Protection Act. Our food system is too important to hand over to Washington, D.C.

Collette Hand,

Palmer

Thank you from the governor

To the editor:

I would like to extend my gratitude to the dedicated law enforcement officers who ensured the safety and security of everyone attending last week’s Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference.

With participants from across the state and the world gathering to discuss innovative approaches to Alaska’s energy future, the presence and professionalism of the Alaska State Troopers, the Anchorage Police Department and security personnel from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, guaranteed the event went off without a hitch.

Their visible commitment to public safety allowed attendees to focus fully on collaboration, learning, and the important conversations shaping our path forward.

From traffic management to event security and crowd coordination, their work was thorough, respectful, and deeply appreciated. Our community benefits greatly from their service—not just during high-profile events like this one, but every day.

Thank you again to all the officers, troopers and support staff who contributed to a smooth and secure conference experience.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy