SC Alaska News

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, voted to advance four spending bills for Fiscal Year 2026. These bills include significant investments for Alaska and cover Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, and the Legislative Branch. The bills have passed committee approval and will proceed to the Senate floor.

“With crucial investments in affordable housing, infrastructure, public safety, and fisheries, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by Alaskans,” said Senator Murkowski.

The Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill supports NOAA’s mission in Alaska with $75 million allocated for vessel recapitalization to enhance weather forecasts and fisheries monitoring. Additional funds were secured for various programs supporting sustainable seafood harvesting and habitat conservation.

Senator Murkowski emphasized broadband infrastructure improvements through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. She also advocated for increased funding in public safety initiatives within rural communities.

Arctic research remains a priority with $9.1 billion designated despite fiscal constraints. This includes support from the National Science Foundation for long-term monitoring and partnerships with Alaska-based institutions.

The Agriculture Appropriations Bill addresses affordable housing challenges with $1.715 billion for rental assistance programs targeting low-income families in rural areas. It also includes funds for water infrastructure improvements prioritizing Alaska Native communities.

Food security is bolstered through several initiatives including micro-grants for food security projects prioritizing reindeer herders and greenhouse growers.

Military construction funding ensures state-of-the-art facilities at Alaska’s military bases with over $400 million allocated across various projects.

In addition to broader programmatic funding benefiting Alaskans statewide, specific local projects received targeted investments based on requests from local governments or organizations.

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