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671 rows where state = "AK" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=87f7d346-9d51-45ae-bc3e-2036ff0e74a3 Murkowski’s Advocacy Helps Reap Secure Rural Schools Payments “Holiday Gift” 2013-12-23 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.23.13 Murkowski’s Advocacy Helps Reap Secure Rural Schools Payments “Holiday Gift” Administration: Next Round of Payments Will Not Be Reduced Senator Lisa Murkowski today commended the Administration for its decision to not reduce the next round of payments to be made to Southeast Alaska timber communities under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. Earlier this year, Senator Murkowski was sharply critical of the Forest Service's decision to apply the automatic, across-the-board federal budget cuts commonly known as “sequestration,” to Secure Rural Schools payments that had previously been made for 2013.  Alaska was asked to return the 5.1 percent of the timber payments received earlier this year to the U.S. Treasury. Secure Rural Schools requires the Forest Service to make payments to communities impacted by the severe decline in timber receipts from national forest lands. Communities that once had thriving timber industries now depend on the funds to pay for schools, emergency services and other local services. Funding for the next year of the program was provided in the High Technology Jobs Preservation Act, a bill sponsored and shepherded through the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the Senate by Senator Murkowski. “While it would be preferable for the Forest Service to actively manage our forests so that our communities are not dependent on these payments,” Murkowski said. “The news that the 2014 payments will not be reduced by sequestration is a holiday gift." The Forest Service manages more than 22 million acres of national forest lands in Alaska, including nearly all of the land in Southeast. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowskis-advocacy-helps-reap-secure-rural-schools-payments-holiday-gift Murkowskis Advocacy Helps Reap Secure Rural Schools Payments Holiday Gift 2013-12-23 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.23.13 Murkowski's Advocacy Helps Reap Secure Rural Schools Payments Holiday Gift Administration: Next Round of Payments Will Not Be Reduced Senator Lisa Murkowski today commended the Administration for its decision to not reduce the next round of payments to be made to Southeast Alaska timber communities under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. Earlier this year, Senator Murkowski was sharply critical of the Forest Service's decision to apply the automatic, across-the-board federal budget cuts commonly known as sequestration, to Secure Rural Schools payments that had previously been made for 2013. Alaska was asked to return the 5.1 percent of the timber payments received earlier this year to the U.S. Treasury. Secure Rural Schools requires the Forest Service to make payments to communities impacted by the severe decline in timber receipts from national forest lands. Communities that once had thriving timber industries now depend on the funds to pay for schools, emergency services and other local services. Funding for the next year of the program was provided in the High Technology Jobs Preservation Act, a bill sponsored and shepherded through the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the Senate by Senator Murkowski. While it would be preferable for the Forest Service to actively manage our forests so that our communities are not dependent on these payments, Murkowski said. The news that the 2014 payments will not be reduced by sequestration is a holiday gift." The Forest Service manages more than 22 million acres of national forest lands in Alaska, including nearly all of the land in Southeast. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364980 Delegation Land Transfer Passes Congress, Benefitting Native Health Efforts 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.  -  Today the Senate unanimously passed H.R. 623, the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Land Transfer Act. The bill directs the Indian Health Service to transfer a 2.79 acre parcel of federal land located in Anchorage to the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC). The bill now heads to the President, and will allow ANTHC to strengthen critical healthcare delivery for Alaska Natives by constructing a patient housing facility on the parcel.  The patient housing facility will expand the Consortium’s ability to offer health services to patients, particularly for those who live in rural areas and villages that are unconnected to the road system.  ANTHC plans for a 170-room housing facility which will adjoin the Alaska Native Medical Center and provide a temporary living space for Alaska Native patients traveling from rural communities to receive health services in Anchorage. The facility will also allow families to stay closer to their loved ones during difficult times. Congressman Don Young championed the bill in the House of Representatives, securing final passage in the House on October 29, 2013. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich introduced companion legislation in the Senate, and worked to move the House passed bill through the Senate. “Many Alaskans living in rural communities travel long distances to receive medical care in Anchorage, but are unable to house themselves during their stay,” Congressman Don Young said. “This land transfer will allow ANTHC to expand patient housing, maximize care by locating patients near the Medical Center and its resources, and save millions of dollars in transportation and housing costs.  It’s a common sense solution that empowers ANTHC to uphold the federal trust responsibility that the Consortium currently fulfills on behalf of the IHS.  I am pleased that the Senate unanimously approved this legislation and appreciate the hard work of both Senators in securing final passage of this bill.” “The construction of a patient housing facility wi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=Newsletters&ContentRecord_id=42882dfc-a8fc-4372-8621-1d97e0e6b438 Senator Murkowski E-Newsletter for the week of December 20, 2013 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Senator Murkowski E-Newsletter for the week of December 20, 2013 Happy Holidays Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone! During this special season, I hope that you have the opportunity to spend time with those you hold dear. (Click image to watch video message.) As Alaskans we are incredibly lucky to live in a true winter wonderland. The snow globe feel of our communities truly makes the holiday season. So during this special time of year, give yourself a Christmas present and take some time to enjoy our beautiful outdoors. Whether it’s hitting the slopes, sledding with your kids or ice fishing on a lake - the time to enjoy the best of Alaska with your families is now, creating memories you’ll look back on for years. This time of year is also the time to reflect on the Alaskan spirit of sharing and helping those in our community when called upon. This is the season to step up and lend a hand to those who need it most. We all can help - even in the smallest of ways. I would also like to thank those who are serving our country. The men and women who serve our nation and ensure our safety on a daily basis need to be remembered at all times of the year. Many of our service members do not have the opportunity to return to their families for the holidays. To those who serve, and to their families - we thank you for your service and all you do for a grateful nation.    From my family to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year.                      United States Botanic Garden (Click on the image above to see the tour I received of the Botanic Garden.) Winter may be in full gear in Alaska, but in D.C. at the United States Botanic Garden they keep it balmy.  As the end of the year approaches, the Botanic Garden sets up a truly wonderful holiday display that really accentuates the season. It’s the next best thing to wandering around the Christmas-time gingerbread village at the Captain Cook! When the Senate was out of session, I took them up on their invitati… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=1d7d501e-218c-426a-bf06-7c0723a09685 Murkowski: Defense Bill Highlights Alaska’s Key Military Role 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski: Defense Bill Highlights Alaska’s Key Military Role Final Bill Passes, with Senator’s C-23 Amendment, Military Construction Boosts and Sexual Assault Protections Senator Lisa Murkowski tonight voted in favor of the HR 3304 the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act to give military members a one percent raise and enact certain policies for the upcoming year – including her amendment making 8 C-23 aircraft available to the State of Alaska. The bill, which passed overwhelmingly 84-15, also contains numerous provisions that underscore Alaska’s prominence for the military, given the Pentagon’s focus on the Asia-Pacific region – as well as including dozens of directives that will protect sexual assault victims in the military.  It now heads to the White House for the President’s signature. “Nearly 80 years ago, General Billy Mitchell said that Alaska is the most strategic location in the world, and the 21st century is proving him a true visionary,” said Murkowski.  “With emerging threats in the Pacific region, Alaska lies at the frontlines of a new era in national defense and it is encouraging that the Department of Defense is investing in our ground-based missile defense, Alaska’s military footprint and also providing eight valuable aircraft to our state for emergency responses like the Galena flood or the storms we’ve recently seen in Western Alaska.” Alaska-specific items in the NDAA bill include:   Murkowski’s amendment requiring the U.S. Army to offer title to eight specific C-23 Sherpa aircraft, pre-selected by the State of Alaska to Governor Parnell free of charge in early 2014. $202 million in military construction for projects and maintenance throughout Alaska: $82 million for an electrical/mechanical building on Missile Field #1 at Fort Greely. $17.2 million to upgrade early warning radars at Clear Air Force Station. $103 million to upgrade aviation (helicopter) faciliti… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=693dcb92-ddcf-437b-99e6-cc938afda9a6 Delegation Land Transfer Passes Congress, Benefitting Native Health Efforts 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Delegation Land Transfer Passes Congress, Benefitting Native Health Efforts Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium to Get More Land for Improved Care Today the Senate unanimously passed H.R. 623, the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Land Transfer Act. The bill directs the Indian Health Service to transfer a 2.79 acre parcel of federal land located in Anchorage to the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC). The bill now heads to the President, and will allow ANTHC to strengthen critical healthcare delivery for Alaska Natives by constructing a patient housing facility on the parcel.  The patient housing facility will expand the Consortium’s ability to offer health services to patients, particularly for those who live in rural areas and villages that are unconnected to the road system.  ANTHC plans for a 170-room housing facility which will adjoin the Alaska Native Medical Center and provide a temporary living space for Alaska Native patients traveling from rural communities to receive health services in Anchorage. The facility will also allow families to stay closer to their loved ones during difficult times. Congressman Don Young championed the bill in the House of Representatives, securing final passage in the House on October 29, 2013. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich introduced companion legislation in the Senate, and worked to move the House passed bill through the Senate. “Many Alaskans living in rural communities travel long distances to receive medical care in Anchorage, but are unable to house themselves during their stay,” Congressman Don Young said. “This land transfer will allow ANTHC to expand patient housing, maximize care by locating patients near the Medical Center and its resources, and save millions of dollars in transportation and housing costs.  It’s a common sense solution that empowers ANTHC to uphold the federal trust responsibility that the Consortium cu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=9a31f952-cbd7-40a8-b96e-2bf3bac568a8 Murkowski Responds to White House Health Care Flip-Flop 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski Responds to White House Health Care Flip-Flop Senator: Alaskans Want, Need and Deserve True Health Care Reform - Not This Law Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the Obama Administration’s “rules change” where it will allow a new set of exemptions to the health care law, saying: “Tonight’s flip-flop from the White House on the health care bill is a stunning admission that its signature achievement is clearly not ready for prime time.  Just weeks ago, President Obama vowed that Americans needed to be ‘protected’ from these basic plans.  At this point, I think Alaskans need to be protected from this bill and the anxiety and frustration it has created for people who just want to know that they and their loved ones can get medical care. “Alaskans and Americans want, need and deserve health care reform that allows for better access to care and lower costs – but that is not what is happening. The website rollout is a debacle, the employer mandate and out-of-pocket limits are both postponed for at least a year, and carve-outs and exemptions continue to be made.  Even the Washington Post had to publish a guide to the constantly changing health care deadlines. “The White House and Democratic party already earned the lie of the year for the “If you like your health plan, you can keep it” line, losing the trust of many Americans. This last-minute reversal is another mistake contributing to a crisis of confidence in the administration and this law.” Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=c179ca21-fa96-409b-9db9-e39007c28a2d Murkowski Co-Sponsors Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski Co-Sponsors Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act Senator Backs “Consequences” if Joint Plan of Action Breached or Final Agreement not Reached WASHINGTON, DC. – Senator Lisa Murkowski has joined 27 of her Senate colleagues to back and co-sponsor the bipartisan Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act, proposing severe new sanctions on Iran should the regime violate the interim Joint Plan of Action agreed to in Geneva or should Iran fail to reach a final agreement. The prospective sanctions legislation requires further reductions in purchases of Iranian petroleum and applies additional penalties to strategic elements of the Iranian economy, to include the engineering, mining and construction sectors. “When someone decides to not abide by an agreement or comply with rules they have signed onto, there are consequences – whether it’s a car loan contract or an international agreement” said Senator Murkowski.  “All this bill does is protect American interests and add teeth to the deal negotiated by the administration, so that we have a response planned if Iran’s leaders go back on their word – and provides additional motivation for the Iranian people to continue conversations with the international community.” The bill also would give the Administration continued flexibility and up to one year from the conclusion of an implementing agreement to pursue a diplomatic track resulting in the complete and verifiable termination of Iran’s illicit nuclear weapons program. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/delegation-land-transfer-passes-congress-benefitting-native-health-efforts Delegation Land Transfer Passes Congress, Benefitting Native Health Efforts 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Delegation Land Transfer Passes Congress, Benefitting Native Health Efforts Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium to Get More Land for Improved Care Today the Senate unanimously passed H.R. 623, the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Land Transfer Act. The bill directs the Indian Health Service to transfer a 2.79 acre parcel of federal land located in Anchorage to the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC). The bill now heads to the President, and will allow ANTHC to strengthen critical healthcare delivery for Alaska Natives by constructing a patient housing facility on the parcel. The patient housing facility will expand the Consortium's ability to offer health services to patients, particularly for those who live in rural areas and villages that are unconnected to the road system. ANTHC plans for a 170-room housing facility which will adjoin the Alaska Native Medical Center and provide a temporary living space for Alaska Native patients traveling from rural communities to receive health services in Anchorage. The facility will also allow families to stay closer to their loved ones during difficult times. Congressman Don Young championed the bill in the House of Representatives, securing final passage in the House on October 29, 2013. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich introduced companion legislation in the Senate, and worked to move the House passed bill through the Senate. Many Alaskans living in rural communities travel long distances to receive medical care in Anchorage, but are unable to house themselves during their stay, Congressman Don Young said. This land transfer will allow ANTHC to expand patient housing, maximize care by locating patients near the Medical Center and its resources, and save millions of dollars in transportation and housing costs. It's a common sense solution that empowers ANTHC to uphold the federal trust responsibility that the Consortium currentl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-co-sponsors-nuclear-weapon-free-iran-act Murkowski Co-Sponsors Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski Co-Sponsors Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act Senator Backs Consequences if Joint Plan of Action Breached or Final Agreement not Reached WASHINGTON, DC. Senator Lisa Murkowski has joined 27 of her Senate colleagues to back and co-sponsor the bipartisan Nuclear Weapon Free Iran Act, proposing severe new sanctions on Iran should the regime violate the interim Joint Plan of Action agreed to in Geneva or should Iran fail to reach a final agreement. The prospective sanctions legislation requires further reductions in purchases of Iranian petroleum and applies additional penalties to strategic elements of the Iranian economy, to include the engineering, mining and construction sectors. When someone decides to not abide by an agreement or comply with rules they have signed onto, there are consequences whether it's a car loan contract or an international agreement said Senator Murkowski. All this bill does is protect American interests and add teeth to the deal negotiated by the administration, so that we have a response planned if Iran's leaders go back on their word and provides additional motivation for the Iranian people to continue conversations with the international community. The bill also would give the Administration continued flexibility and up to one year from the conclusion of an implementing agreement to pursue a diplomatic track resulting in the complete and verifiable termination of Iran's illicit nuclear weapons program. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-defense-bill-highlights-alaskas-key-military-role Murkowski: Defense Bill Highlights Alaskas Key Military Role 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski: Defense Bill Highlights Alaska's Key Military Role Final Bill Passes, with Senator's C-23 Amendment, Military Construction Boosts and Sexual Assault Protections Senator Lisa Murkowski tonight voted in favor of the HR 3304 the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act to give military members a one percent raise and enact certain policies for the upcoming year including her amendment making 8 C-23 aircraft available to the State of Alaska. The bill, which passed overwhelmingly 84-15, also contains numerous provisions that underscore Alaska's prominence for the military, given the Pentagon's focus on the Asia-Pacific region as well as including dozens of directives that will protect sexual assault victims in the military. It now heads to the White House for the President's signature. Nearly 80 years ago, General Billy Mitchell said that Alaska is the most strategic location in the world, and the 21st century is proving him a true visionary, said Murkowski. With emerging threats in the Pacific region, Alaska lies at the frontlines of a new era in national defense and it is encouraging that the Department of Defense is investing in our ground-based missile defense, Alaska's military footprint and also providing eight valuable aircraft to our state for emergency responses like the Galena flood or the storms we've recently seen in Western Alaska. Alaska-specific items in the NDAA bill include: Murkowski's amendment requiring the U.S. Army to offer title to eight specific C-23 Sherpa aircraft, pre-selected by the State of Alaska to Governor Parnell free of charge in early 2014. $202 million in military construction for projects and maintenance throughout Alaska: $82 million for an electrical/mechanical building on Missile Field #1 at Fort Greely. $17.2 million to upgrade early warning radars at Clear Air Force Station. $103 million to upgrade aviation (helicopter) facilities at For… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-responds-to-white-house-health-care-flip-flop Murkowski Responds to White House Health Care Flip-Flop 2013-12-20 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.13 Murkowski Responds to White House Health Care Flip-Flop Senator: Alaskans Want, Need and Deserve True Health Care Reform - Not This Law Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the Obama Administration's rules change where it will allow a new set of exemptions to the health care law, saying: Tonight's flip-flop from the White House on the health care bill is a stunning admission that its signature achievement is clearly not ready for prime time. Just weeks ago, President Obama vowed that Americans needed to be protected' from these basic plans. At this point, I think Alaskans need to be protected from this bill and the anxiety and frustration it has created for people who just want to know that they and their loved ones can get medical care. Alaskans and Americans want, need and deserve health care reform that allows for better access to care and lower costs but that is not what is happening. The website rollout is a debacle, the employer mandate and out-of-pocket limits are both postponed for at least a year, and carve-outs and exemptions continue to be made. Even the Washington Post had to publish a guide to the constantly changing health care deadlines. The White House and Democratic party already earned the lie of the year for the If you like your health plan, you can keep it line, losing the trust of many Americans. This last-minute reversal is another mistake contributing to a crisis of confidence in the administration and this law. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=060bdfe2-626d-4b25-a1d8-837f21f384f3 Murkowski Secures Amendment Protecting an Alaska Family’s Cabin from Demolition 2013-12-19 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.19.13 Murkowski Secures Amendment Protecting an Alaska Family’s Cabin from Demolition “There’s a Family in Alaska That’s Going to Be Helped” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today secured support for an amendment protecting a privately owned subsistence cabin on an Alaska Native veteran allotment in the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge from demolition by federal land managers. The cabin was built on the edge of a designated wilderness area because of a mistake made by federal land management agencies. The members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee unanimously supported Murkowski’s amendment, which provides an exemption for a subsistence cabin in the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge that was inadvertently build on the edge of the Andreanoff wilderness area. .  (Click to play video)  “Every now and again, we do things that are so small that they will never make anybody’s headline, but they make a difference in the life of a family. And there’s a family in Alaska today that is going to be helped because of an amendment that we were able to include,” Murkowski said at Thursday’s Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee business meeting. The amendment allows for a one-time exemption to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) to provide William Alstrom ownership to a small plot of federal land in a wilderness area that he was originally issued as a veteran’s allotment. In 2003, Alstrom applied for an Alaska Native veterans’ allotment under ANCSA. He was granted a parcel of 80 acres within the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge in 2008, building a small subsistence cabin on the land later that year. In 2011, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials said the allotment had been mistakenly granted on land within a restricted wilderness-designated area and notified Alstrom that the cabin would need to be moved or it would be burne… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-secures-amendment-protecting-an-alaska-familys-cabin-from-demolition Murkowski Secures Amendment Protecting an Alaska Familys Cabin from Demolition 2013-12-19 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.19.13 Murkowski Secures Amendment Protecting an Alaska Family's Cabin from Demolition There's a Family in Alaska That's Going to Be Helped WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski today secured support for an amendment protecting a privately owned subsistence cabin on an Alaska Native veteran allotment in the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge from demolition by federal land managers. The cabin was built on the edge of a designated wilderness area because of a mistake made by federal land management agencies. The members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee unanimously supported Murkowski's amendment, which provides an exemption for a subsistence cabin in the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge that was inadvertently build on the edge of the Andreanoff wilderness area. . (Click to play video) Every now and again, we do things that are so small that they will never make anybody's headline, but they make a difference in the life of a family. And there's a family in Alaska today that is going to be helped because of an amendment that we were able to include, Murkowski said at Thursday's Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee business meeting. Theamendmentallows for a one-time exemption to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) to provide William Alstrom ownership to a small plot of federal land in a wilderness area that he was originally issued as a veteran's allotment. In 2003, Alstrom applied for an Alaska Native veterans' allotment under ANCSA. He was granted a parcel of 80 acres within the Yukon-Delta National Wildlife Refuge in 2008, building a small subsistence cabin on the land later that year. In 2011, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials said the allotment had been mistakenly granted on land within a restricted wilderness-designated area and notified Alstrom that the cabin would need to be moved or it would be burned down. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=6e6a3b33-33cd-45bf-bab5-c77680d15036 Murkowski to Wal-Mart: “No Doubt” Alaska Seafood is Sustainable 2013-12-18 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.18.13 Murkowski to Wal-Mart: “No Doubt” Alaska Seafood is Sustainable Senator Reaches Out to New CEO, Pushing to Keep Alaska Fish on Shelves WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today sent a letter (attached) to the incoming President and CEO of Wal-Mart, introducing him to Alaska’s world-renowned sustainable fisheries – calling it “the benchmark for fishery management.” Her outreach is aimed at advocating that Wal-Mart make an informed decision to continue to bring Alaskan fish to its consumers nationwide, and at inviting the new CEO to Alaska to “see and taste” it for himself. After spending much of 2013 fighting against third-party adversaries that questioned Alaska’s sustainable seafood, Murkowski is proactively bringing the issue to the new superstore chief as they work with The Sustainability Consortium to certify Alaskan fisheries.  In her letter, she writes: “… Sustainable use of our fisheries resources has been a fundamental principle, with the requirement that fisheries be well-managed imbedded in our State Constitution.  Alaska has earned the reputation as the benchmark for fishery management, both at the state and federal level, and Alaskans are rightly proud of the seafood we produce.” Murkowski also adds, of the new group: “Wal-Mart has engaged The Sustainability Consortium to evaluate seafood certification programs, and that its initial focus is review of the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification program supported by the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute.  There are no doubts that Alaska’s fisheries are sustainably managed, and I am confident that the RFM certification program will be validated through this process and Alaska seafood will continue to be available to Wal-Mart’s customers.” In closing, she invites Mr. McMillon to Alaska: “I have found that one of the best ways to understand an issue in my state is to see it firsthand, and I would like to invite y… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-to-wal-mart-no-doubt-alaska-seafood-is-sustainable Murkowski to Wal-Mart: No Doubt Alaska Seafood is Sustainable 2013-12-18 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.18.13 Murkowski to Wal-Mart: No Doubt Alaska Seafood is Sustainable Senator Reaches Out to New CEO, Pushing to Keep Alaska Fish on Shelves WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski today sent a letter (attached) to the incoming President and CEO of Wal-Mart, introducing him to Alaska's world-renowned sustainable fisheries calling it the benchmark for fishery management. Her outreach is aimed at advocating that Wal-Mart make an informed decision to continue to bring Alaskan fish to its consumers nationwide, and at inviting the new CEO to Alaska to see and taste it for himself. After spending much of 2013 fighting against third-party adversaries that questioned Alaska's sustainable seafood, Murkowski is proactively bringing the issue to the new superstore chief as they work with The Sustainability Consortium to certify Alaskan fisheries. In her letter, she writes: Sustainable use of our fisheries resources has been a fundamental principle, with the requirement that fisheries be well-managed imbedded in our State Constitution. Alaska has earned the reputation as the benchmark for fishery management, both at the state and federal level, and Alaskans are rightly proud of the seafood we produce. Murkowski also adds, of the new group: Wal-Mart has engaged The Sustainability Consortium to evaluate seafood certification programs, and that its initial focus is review of the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification program supported by the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. There are no doubts that Alaska's fisheries are sustainably managed, and I am confident that the RFM certification program will be validated through this process and Alaska seafood will continue to be available to Wal-Mart's customers. In closing, she invites Mr. McMillon to Alaska: I have found that one of the best ways to understand an issue in mystate is to see it firsthand, and I would like to invite you to visit with m… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=34351c8a-e24c-4f7e-8c2c-f1c3358db9f8 Murkowski Statement on Bipartisan Budget Deal 2013-12-17 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.17.13 Murkowski Statement on Bipartisan Budget Deal Senator: Bill Far From Perfect But Helps Avert Another Shutdown WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted in favor of proceeding to a final vote on H.J. Res 49, the Budget Resolution, a result of bipartisan negotiations between Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to set funding levels for the federal government into 2015.  She shared the following statement with Alaskans afterwards about the bill and her prospective vote tomorrow: "After much thought, I cast my vote in support of the Budget Act. The bill is far from perfect, but it helps prevent another shutdown of the federal government, the furlough of thousands of Alaska’s federal employees, and the statewide ripple effect. It is a bipartisan agreement, a step forward for the legislative process, and provides more certainty for the economy. It also allows some relief from the across-the-board sequester cuts, which have hit the Department of Defense and our military particularly hard. I do not support the bill’s provisions to decrease the cost-of-living-adjustment for retirement payments for military retirees until they turn 62, and support Senator Wicker’s amendment to restore full retirement pay. The Majority Leader prevented all efforts to amend the bill, but I am committed to working with my colleagues to find a better solution for our veterans before the decrease takes effect in December 2015." For more on Senator Murkowski’s views on addressing America’s deficit, click HERE ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-statement-on-bipartisan-budget-deal Murkowski Statement on Bipartisan Budget Deal 2013-12-17 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.17.13 Murkowski Statement on Bipartisan Budget Deal Senator: Bill Far From Perfect But Helps Avert Another Shutdown WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted in favor of proceeding to a final vote on H.J. Res 49, the Budget Resolution, a result of bipartisan negotiations between Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to set funding levels for the federal government into 2015. She shared the following statement with Alaskans afterwards about the bill and her prospective vote tomorrow: "After much thought, I cast my vote in support of the Budget Act. The bill is far from perfect, but it helps prevent another shutdown of the federal government, the furlough of thousands of Alaska's federal employees, and the statewide ripple effect. It is a bipartisan agreement, a step forward for the legislative process, and provides more certainty for the economy. It also allows some relief from the across-the-board sequester cuts, which have hit the Department of Defense and our military particularly hard. I do not support the bill's provisions to decrease the cost-of-living-adjustment for retirement payments for military retirees until they turn 62, and support Senator Wicker's amendment to restore full retirement pay. The Majority Leader prevented all efforts to amend the bill, but I am committed to working with my colleagues to find a better solution for our veterans before the decrease takes effect in December 2015." For more on Senator Murkowski's views on addressing America's deficit, click HERE ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=e5229b31-3f7b-468a-9a49-e0ce86a0e115 Murkowski Casts Vote for Coast Guard Future, DHS Nominee 2013-12-16 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.16.13 Murkowski Casts Vote for Coast Guard Future, DHS Nominee Senator Votes to Confirm Department of Homeland Security Secretary Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted to confirm the nomination of Jeh Johnson as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, a critical position in Alaska where DHS watches over the United States Coast Guard, Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Transportation Security Administration -- sharing her thoughts with Alaskans: “Last week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Johnson to discuss his outlook on the issues facing our state, where DHS has a rather large presence.  Mr. Johnson has been to Alaska and I look forward to inviting him back – we have the nation’s largest Coast Guard base in Kodiak and are proud of our close relationship with our 1500 active duty personnel statewide.  The DHS Secretary also makes recommendations to the President about who should serve as the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard. “Mr. Johnson made a commitment to continue the acquisition of National Security Cutters that will be able to provide a more robust presence in the Arctic as opportunities there emerge. “When we discussed FEMA issues, he was also very receptive to my concerns that arose from the inadequate response to Galena after last spring’s floods – and seemed willing to seek improvements where they can be found. “I look forward to working with Secretary Johnson in his new position, and to working with him to advance an Arctic maritime agenda for Alaska and the nation.” Jeh Johnson was confirmed by a 78-16 vote. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-casts-vote-for-coast-guard-future-dhs-nominee Murkowski Casts Vote for Coast Guard Future, DHS Nominee 2013-12-16 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.16.13 Murkowski Casts Vote for Coast Guard Future, DHS Nominee Senator Votes to Confirm Department of Homeland Security Secretary Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted to confirm the nomination of Jeh Johnson as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, a critical position in Alaska where DHS watches over the United States Coast Guard, Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Transportation Security Administration -- sharing her thoughts with Alaskans: Last week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Johnson to discuss his outlook on the issues facing our state, where DHS has a rather large presence. Mr. Johnson has been to Alaska and I look forward to inviting him back we have the nation's largest Coast Guard base in Kodiak and are proud of our close relationship with our 1500 active duty personnel statewide. The DHS Secretary also makes recommendations to the President about who should serve as the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard. Mr. Johnson made a commitment to continue the acquisition of National Security Cutters that will be able to provide a more robust presence in the Arctic as opportunities there emerge. When we discussed FEMA issues, he was also very receptive to my concerns that arose from the inadequate response to Galena after last spring's floods and seemed willing to seek improvements where they can be found. I look forward to working with Secretary Johnson in his new position, and to working with him to advance an Arctic maritime agenda for Alaska and the nation. Jeh Johnson was confirmed by a 78-16 vote. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364504 Congressman Young Introduces Bill to Encourage Wild Game Donation to Food-based Charities 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - In an effort to fight chronic hunger in Alaska and across the country, yesterday Alaskan Congressman Don Young reintroduced H.R. 3728, the Wild Game Donation Act of 2013. The bipartisan legislation will provide hunters with charitable deductions for the costs associated with donating processed moose, caribou, and other wild game meat to food-based charities. In addition to providing tax relief for hunters, this legislation will also provide tax relief for game processors participating in the program, which would allow processors to pass savings on to local food banks.   “In a state like Alaska, with a great abundance of natural resources and wildlife, it’s a shame that people still go hungry,” said Congressman Don Young. “The Food Bank of Alaska tells me that more than 106,000 Alaskans don’t know where their next meal is coming from, and I have a real problem with that. My bill will begin to help solve some of these hunger problems while also providing an economic incentive for hunters to donate their game. I’ve already received bipartisan support from across the country and look forward to filling the freezers of our food-based charities.”   FOR FULL BILL TEXT OF H.R. 3728, THE WILD GAME DONATION ACT CLICK HERE Feeding America, the Food Bank of Alaska’s national partner, estimates that one in six Americans and nearly 15.9 million children live in food insecure households. In fact, an estimated 3.1 million rural households are food insecure.  Currently, food banks across the country struggle to keep up with the increasing demand for food. Last year, 37 million Americans or roughly one-eighth of the population, required help from food banks. Hunters across the U.S are ready to do their part and donate their wild game meat to help feed the hungry. H.R. 3728 requires all animals be killed in accordance with state and local laws and by the individual making the charitable contribution. The Wild Game Donation Act has received support from Feeding America, the National Rifle Association, and the Safa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364523 Congressman Don Young Assists Alaskan Radiation Center with Clarification of Federal Regulations 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – Earlier this week the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center (ARTC) seemed to face an insurmountable roadblock in providing new state-of-the-art cancer treatment services in Alaska to a number of extremely critical patients. As the Radiation Therapy Center prepared to begin a new treatment next week, with medical experts flying in from around the world to assist with a brand new piece of medical equipment known as the Elekta Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion, an unexpected barrier stood in the way. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) sent notice that they may not meet all the requirements needed to use the Gamma Knife. After urgent e-mails and phone calls to Congressman Don Young, he and his Anchorage staff intervened to clear up the misunderstandings the NRC had with the ARTC. Within days, ARTC has received notice they have been cleared to launch their new treatment as originally planned next week.  “We have to thank Representative Don Young and the rest of his team for coming to our aid with respect to our urgent issue with the new Gamma Knife and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission,” wrote Dr. Steve Settle, Dr. Richard Chung and Kari Disbrow of the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center & Alaska Gamma-Knife Center. “Thanks to your efforts we now will be able to go-live and treat our cancer patients next week with the new technology.”  “This is the least we can do for such an important group of people who provide a vital service to Alaskans suffering from cancer,” said Congressman Don Young. “Federal regulations shouldn’t be restricting new technologies in our state, agencies should be welcoming them. We see these problems all the time, people misunderstand Alaska and some of the challenges we face here. That’s in part what I do here in Congress, help federal agencies understand our problems and differences. I’m glad the Nuclear Regulatory Commission was able to move quickly on this issue and provide people with the treatment they’ve been long preparing for.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=5c1813cc-6a33-4aa2-b2ab-55935c8ad6c8 Murkowski Helps Bring State of the Art Cancer Technology to Alaska 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.13 Murkowski Helps Bring State of the Art Cancer Technology to Alaska Senator Cuts Through Red Tape, Allows Procedures to Start Next Week ANCHORAGE, AK – Senator Lisa Murkowski’s office this week helped a local cancer treatment center bring a state of the art machine online that will allow for the treatment of some brain cancers without ever cutting into the patient’s skull.  It is called a Gamma Knife, and it focuses 200 tiny beams of radiation directly at a tumor with minimal impacts to the surrounding, healthy tissue.  Previously, Alaskans needing this type of brain cancer treatment were forced to travel to Seattle on their own dime; paying for travel, hotel, meals for 3 to 4 days plus the emotional toll of being away from home and family during a major treatment for a serious disease.   The Gamma Knife at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center (Click on the image for video of doctors discussing the importance of the Gamma Knife in Alaska) Bringing the technology to Alaska has taken years and a specially designed bunker had to be constructed to house the machine at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center.  But last minute bureaucratic hurdles from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission threatened its operation.  Red tape Sen. Murkowski’s office found a way to overcome.  Now, four Gamma Knife procedures, the first of their kind in Alaska, can happen as scheduled next week.   “We were under the impression from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that everything was a go, and then they discovered that there was some additional paperwork that they needed,” said Dr. Stephen Settle, Medical Director of the Gamma Knife Program at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center.  “That was going to take some great length of time to resolve and Sen. Murkowski cut through that very quickly.  Now those patients who are scheduled for procedures next week can still get them thanks to Sen. Murkowski.” “With this machine… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=b3292c60-a19a-4856-9848-ba435d7df3e2 Murkowski Votes for Air Force Secretary Nominee 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.13 Murkowski Votes for Air Force Secretary Nominee Senator Sees Confirmation as New Start in New Pacific Era WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted to confirm Deborah Lee James as the next Secretary of the Air Force, sharing the following thoughts: “The Air Force community is incredibly important to Alaska’s identity, and it is being seen in a new light by the Pentagon as we embark on a Pacific era in the military – and the United States Air Force has developed a stronger partnership with Alaska in recent months.  Over the past several years the Air Force relationship with Alaska and Congress has suffered from its insular corporate management style that largely ignored the views of stakeholders – the consideration of warm basing Eielson and transferring the F-16s was a prime example. Today's confirmation of Deborah James Lee completes the arrival of a new management team and a new management style that will serve the Air Force well as it navigates its future in this difficult financial period with a new focus.” Ms. James was confirmed on a vote of 79-6 and will be installed on Tuesday. (Senator Murkowski visits with Ms.James in September 2013) ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-helps-bring-state-of-the-art-cancer-technology-to-alaska Murkowski Helps Bring State of the Art Cancer Technology to Alaska 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.13 Murkowski Helps Bring State of the Art Cancer Technology to Alaska Senator Cuts Through Red Tape, Allows Procedures to Start Next Week ANCHORAGE, AK Senator Lisa Murkowski's office this week helped a local cancer treatment center bring a state of the art machine online that will allow for the treatment of some brain cancers without ever cutting into the patient's skull. It is called a Gamma Knife, and it focuses 200 tiny beams of radiation directly at a tumor with minimal impacts to the surrounding, healthy tissue. Previously, Alaskans needing this type of brain cancer treatment were forced to travel to Seattle on their own dime; paying for travel, hotel, meals for 3 to 4 days plus the emotional toll of being away from home and family during a major treatment for a serious disease. The Gamma Knife at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center (Click on the image for video of doctors discussing the importance of the Gamma Knife in Alaska) Bringing the technology to Alaska has taken years and a specially designed bunker had to be constructed to house the machine at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center. But last minute bureaucratic hurdles from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission threatened its operation. Red tape Sen. Murkowski's office found a way to overcome. Now, four Gamma Knife procedures, the first of their kind in Alaska, can happen as scheduled next week. We were under the impression from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that everything was a go, and then they discovered that there was some additional paperwork that they needed, said Dr. Stephen Settle, Medical Director of the Gamma Knife Program at the Anchorage Radiation Therapy Center. That was going to take some great length of time to resolve and Sen. Murkowski cut through that very quickly. Now those patients who are scheduled for procedures next week can still get them thanks to Sen. Murkowski. With this machine and this techno… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-votes-for-air-force-secretary-nominee Murkowski Votes for Air Force Secretary Nominee 2013-12-13 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.13 Murkowski Votes for Air Force Secretary Nominee Senator Sees Confirmation as New Start in New Pacific Era WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski today voted to confirm Deborah Lee James as the next Secretary of the Air Force, sharing the following thoughts: The Air Force community is incredibly important to Alaska's identity, and it is being seen in a new light by the Pentagon as we embark on a Pacific era in the military and the United States Air Force has developed a stronger partnership with Alaska in recent months. Over the past several years the Air Force relationship with Alaska and Congress has suffered from its insular corporate management style that largely ignored the views of stakeholders the consideration of warm basing Eielson and transferring the F-16s was a prime example. Today's confirmation of Deborah James Lee completes the arrival of a new management team and a new management style that will serve the Air Force well as it navigates its future in this difficult financial period with a new focus. Ms. James was confirmed on a vote of 79-6 and will be installed on Tuesday. (Senator Murkowski visits with Ms.James in September 2013) ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364366 Congressman Young Supports Bipartisan Budget Deal 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – Alaskan Congressman Don Young today voted in favor of H.J. Res. 59, The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013, legislation that would establish a two-year budget for the federal government and set forth appropriate budget levels for the remainder of Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 332-94.  “The budget deal I supported today in the House of Representatives is far from perfect, but it’s a small step towards reducing our deficit and reigning in outrageous spending in Washington, D.C., said Congressman Don Young. “This budget compromise, championed by Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), helps the American people and job-creating businesses steer clear of Washington-created uncertainty by avoiding the jump from one crisis to the next.”  “This compromise begins to address our budgetary woes through spending reforms rather than on the backs of taxpayers. It also helps soften the blow of Sequestration that greatly impacted training, readiness, and the morale across all branches of our nation’s military.” “I’ve been very clear that Congress must return to a regular budgeting process, because this is where the power of the purse should exist. As a nation we cannot cut or spend our way to prosperity nor can we tax our way to a budget surpluses. This is why I have supported several budget plans that eliminate wasteful spending, reform entitlements, reduce our budget deficit, and cut the size of government, all without raising taxes. This was the best plan we were going to get from Senate Democrats at this time and as I’ve said before, if you try to swallow the entire apple at once, you’ll choke. You have to take it one bite at a time.” While Congressman has expressed general concerns with a number of provisions within the bill, including the increase to Aviation Security Fees, he is happy that the bill accomplished the following: Lowers Senate Spending Levels:  Sets overall discretionary spending for the current fiscal year at $1.012 trillion — lower th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364369 House Passes National Defense Bill 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – Alaskan Congressman Don Young today supported the House passage of H.R. 3304, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included a number of provisions he offered to strengthen Alaska’s military. The Fiscal Year 2014 bill authorizes $552.1 billion in spending for national defense, in addition to $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations.  The bill ensures the continuation of critical benefits promised to our troops like combat pay, in addition to rejecting the Administration’s proposals to increase or establish new TRICARE fees. “Today, the House of Representatives passed a critical bill that provides for our nation’s military and national defense,” said Congressman Don Young. “This year’s NDAA covers a wide range of Alaska specific issues: prioritizing funding for our nation’s strategic seaports, funding for our missile defense systems, and protections for combating sexual assault in the military. As our nation’s defense priorities shifts to the Pacific, Alaska will no doubt play a critical role in training our soldiers, safeguarding our freedoms, and projecting our nation’s influence in the Pacific and around the world.” Within the bill are a number of Alaska specific provisions that will modernize and strengthen critical force structure in Alaska, including large increases to missile defense funding. Congressman Young was also able to include three amendments in the House passed NDAA, including one which prioritizes strategic seaports like the Port of Anchorage, and one which begins the process for finding operating efficiencies to keep all of Alaska’s strategically important bases in Alaska for many years to come. Congressman Young’s Amendments to the FY2014 NDAA include: Strategic Seaport Prioritization:  In support of U.S. national security requirements, this bipartisan amendment allows the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) to prioritize funding for the 21 DoD-designated strategic seaports (including Anchorage) in the United States.  … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=05edf413-1a6b-4e19-a910-1226cd64351a Murkowski Amendment Bringing Disaster Relief Aircraft to Alaska Added to Defense Bill 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Murkowski Amendment Bringing Disaster Relief Aircraft to Alaska Added to Defense Bill Eight C-23 “Sherpas” Could Be Headed to Alaska, Boosting State Government Aviation Capacity WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski is pleased to see that the amendment she filed to the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act to transfer eight surplus Army C-23 “Sherpa” aircraft  to the State of Alaska has been added to the bill released yesterday by the House and Senate Armed Services Committee. The bill is expected to be considered in the Senate next week. Murkowski’s amendment requires the U.S. Army to offer title of eight specific aircraft, preselected by the State of Alaska to Governor Parnell free of charge in early 2014. About 40 C-23 “Sherpa” Aircraft (photo below) are parked at Fort Sill, Oklahoma unused and awaiting disposition. The C-23 is designed to carry up to 30 passengers or 7,280 pounds of cargo and has a range capability of up to 1,030 nautical miles.  These aircraft have been tremendously useful in providing manpower, food and aid to regions impacted by wildfires, floods and hurricanes – from Hurricane Sandy relief to wildfire responses – and could boost the State of Alaska’s response capability to natural disasters like the Yukon River flood and the recent Western Alaska storms.   (Sherpas have provided disaster relief for decades.) “When states are in need, these aircraft and their crews are humanitarian heroes and have proven themselves repeatedly to respond and deliver in the most trying circumstances,” said Senator Murkowski.  “These planes are sitting on a tarmac in Oklahoma when they could be put to use to save lives and provide relief in places like Galena, so I appreciate those working on the defense bill for seeing the value in allowing my state with its vast geography, terrain and challenges to have a chance to acquire eight of them.” The Army announced its intention to elimi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=790a92b9-7840-44b3-b288-633ef7c28815 Murkowski Commends VA Backlog Progress: Service is a Two Way Street, Keep Moving Forward 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Murkowski Commends VA Backlog Progress: Service is a Two Way Street, Keep Moving Forward Senator Pleased with Improvements, But Pushes for Momentum to Continue WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the new Department of Veterans Affairs report (attached) outlining its improved Anchorage Regional Office statistics in cutting through the backlog of claims.  The VA provided her with information detailing the positive changes in claim processing time, as well as delays in decisions and benefits.  While statistics are slowly increasing in the lower 48, the more dramatic turnaround in Alaska is partly the result of Murkowski’s demand that a long-term manager be found for the facility, after numerous managers cycled through in the last decade. “Our men and women in uniform performed bravely and in rapid fashion when they were active duty, and that service and speed must be reciprocated and made a priority when they come home,” said Senator Murkowski.  “This news from the VA gives me a new, overdue optimism that we are making progress at long last in delivering care and benefits in a more timely fashion – but ‘more timely’ is not the goal here; the speediest process possible is.” The VA reported that its Anchorage Regional Office has made improvements by: Reducing its pending disability claims inventory by 30.6 percent. Helping to eliminate the disability claim backlog by 46.2 percent. Providing decisions and benefits 98 days quicker. Cutting its “year plus” list by 98 percent. In some respects, this can be seen as a “worst to first” story for the Alaska VA benefits office. Prior to 2010, the VA Alaska benefits operation was managed by a revolving door of managers, some of whom stayed in the job for a year or less. Due to low productivity Alaska claims were actually being outsourced to other VA offices around the country. Senator Murkowski demanded that the VA turn the sh… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=b843266a-9d40-45b7-bc46-78b653e88064 Sen. Murkowski Calls Out Interior’s Inconsistency on King Cove Road 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Sen. Murkowski Calls Out Interior’s Inconsistency on King Cove Road WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today pressed Rhea Suh, nominated to be the next assistant secretary for fish, wildlife and parks at the Interior Department, on the importance of approving a life-saving road through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge to protect the health and safety of the people of King Cove, Alaska. Murkowski asked how Interior agencies could continue to defend their opposition to the King Cove road with the argument that it could harm the region’s migrating wildfowl, while at the same time approving a rule granting wind energy companies a 30-year permit to kill or injure American bald and golden eagles?  (Click to play video) “How do you reconcile the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s ongoing opposition to the King Cove road with its more recent decision to grant permits that allow for the taking of eagles at wind farms around the country?” Murkowski asked Suh at Thursday’s hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. After a number of people died in airplane-related accidents in King Cove, Murkowski crafted legislation offering to add 56,000 acres of state and tribal lands to the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge in exchange for allowing the isolated community to build a single-lane, gravel road through a small section of the refuge to an all-weather airport in Cold Bay. Murkowski’s legislation was signed into law in 2009, but it still requires Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to determine whether the land exchange and road corridor are in the public interest. “As I am sure you are aware, the construction of an emergency road for the residents of King Cove is very important to me. As it stands now, the residents of King Cove live only a few short miles from an all-weather airport, but are often unable to access it in emergency situations due to inclement weather,” Murkowski said. “I firmly believe that we should actually protect the residents of this small Al… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-amendment-bringing-disaster-relief-aircraft-to-alaska-added-to-defense-bill Murkowski Amendment Bringing Disaster Relief Aircraft to Alaska Added to Defense Bill 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Murkowski Amendment Bringing Disaster Relief Aircraft to Alaska Added to Defense Bill Eight C-23 Sherpas Could Be Headed to Alaska, Boosting State Government Aviation Capacity WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski is pleased to see that the amendment she filed to the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act to transfer eight surplus Army C-23 Sherpa aircraft to the State of Alaska has been added to the bill released yesterday by the House and Senate Armed Services Committee. The bill is expected to be considered in the Senate next week. Murkowski's amendment requires the U.S. Army to offer title of eight specific aircraft, preselected by the State of Alaska to Governor Parnell free of charge in early 2014. About 40 C-23 Sherpa Aircraft (photo below) are parked at Fort Sill, Oklahoma unused and awaiting disposition.The C-23 is designed to carry up to 30 passengers or 7,280 pounds of cargo and has a range capability of up to 1,030 nautical miles. These aircraft have been tremendously useful in providing manpower, food and aid to regions impacted by wildfires, floods and hurricanes from Hurricane Sandy relief to wildfire responses and could boost the State of Alaska's response capability to natural disasters like the Yukon River flood and the recent Western Alaska storms. (Sherpas have provided disaster relief for decades.) When states are in need, these aircraft and their crews are humanitarian heroes and have proven themselves repeatedly to respond and deliver in the most trying circumstances, said Senator Murkowski. These planes are sitting on a tarmac in Oklahoma when they could be put to use to save lives and provide relief in places like Galena, so I appreciate those working on the defense bill for seeing the value in allowing my state with its vast geography, terrain and challenges to have a chance to acquire eight of them. The Army announced its intention to eliminate its entire fl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-commends-va-backlog-progress-service-is-a-two-way-street-keep-moving-forward Murkowski Commends VA Backlog Progress: Service is a Two Way Street, Keep Moving Forward 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Murkowski Commends VA Backlog Progress: Service is a Two Way Street, Keep Moving Forward Senator Pleased with Improvements, But Pushes for Momentum to Continue WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the new Department of Veterans Affairs report (attached) outlining its improved Anchorage Regional Office statistics in cutting through the backlog of claims. The VA provided her with information detailing the positive changes in claim processing time, as well as delays in decisions and benefits. While statistics are slowly increasing in the lower 48, the more dramatic turnaround in Alaska is partly the result of Murkowski's demand that a long-term manager be found for the facility, after numerous managers cycled through in the last decade. Our men and women in uniform performed bravely and in rapid fashion when they were active duty, and that service and speed must be reciprocated and made a priority when they come home, said Senator Murkowski. This news from the VA gives me a new, overdue optimism that we are making progress at long last in delivering care and benefits in a more timely fashion but more timely' is not the goal here; the speediest process possible is. The VA reported that its Anchorage Regional Office has made improvements by: Reducing its pending disability claims inventory by 30.6 percent. Helping to eliminate the disability claim backlog by 46.2 percent. Providing decisions and benefits 98 days quicker. Cutting its year plus list by 98 percent. In some respects, this can be seen as a worst to first story for the Alaska VA benefits office. Prior to 2010, the VA Alaska benefits operation was managed by a revolving door of managers, some of whom stayed in the job for a year or less. Due to low productivity Alaska claims were actually being outsourced to other VA offices around the country. Senator Murkowski demanded that the VA turn the ship around, and… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/sen-murkowski-calls-out-interiors-inconsistency-on-king-cove-road Sen. Murkowski Calls Out Interiors Inconsistency on King Cove Road 2013-12-12 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.12.13 Sen. Murkowski Calls Out Interior's Inconsistency on King Cove Road WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today pressed Rhea Suh, nominated to be the next assistant secretary for fish, wildlife and parks at the Interior Department, on the importance of approving a life-saving road through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge to protect the health and safety of the people of King Cove, Alaska. Murkowski asked how Interior agencies could continue to defend their opposition to the King Cove road with the argument that it could harm the region's migrating wildfowl, while at the same time approving a rule granting wind energy companies a 30-year permit to kill or injure American bald and golden eagles? (Click to play video) How do you reconcile the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's ongoing opposition to the King Cove road with its more recent decision to grant permits that allow for the taking of eagles at wind farms around the country? Murkowski asked Suh at Thursday's hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. After a number of people died in airplane-related accidents in King Cove, Murkowski crafted legislation offering to add 56,000 acres of state and tribal lands to the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge in exchange for allowing the isolated community to build a single-lane, gravel road through a small section of the refuge to an all-weather airport in Cold Bay. Murkowski's legislation was signed into law in 2009, but it still requires Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to determine whether the land exchange and road corridor are in the public interest. As I am sure you are aware, the construction of an emergency road for the residents of King Cove is very important to me. As it stands now, the residents of King Cove live only a few short miles from an all-weather airport, but are often unable to access it in emergency situations due to inclement weather, Murkowski said. I firmly believe that we should actually protect the residents of this small Alaskan v… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364205 Congressman Young Comments on November Obamacare Numbers 2013-12-11 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Congressman Don Young today issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services announced that 260,000 Americans have registered for Obamacare in the month of November. “While the Administration says their second month Obamacare enrollment numbers have drastically improved, in reality they have fallen flat on their face in terms of reaching their initial two month enrollment goal of 800,000 people. A private insurance brokerage assisting Alaskans through the enrollment process, Enroll Alaska, is also reporting less than 400 Alaskan enrollees at a time when initial estimates for the month of October were approximately 4,000 individuals.” “These results are clear; the Administration is not equipped to run the infrastructure needed to sign up for the healthcare exchange, let alone manage the implementation of the entire law. But this is about much more than a failed website, this is about a failure to listen to the American people and the negative impacts this law with have on Alaskan businesses and families.”    ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=57903919-d853-4ac2-921e-293ba93bfdf7 On Pearl Harbor Anniversary, WWII Veteran Says “Life is Magnificent” 2013-12-07 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.07.13 On Pearl Harbor Anniversary, WWII Veteran Says “Life is Magnificent” Murkowski Spotlights 90 Year Old Army Veteran to Mark “Date Which Will Live in Infamy” Anchorage resident Norman Hogg carries with him an Army-issued Bible received during his service time in World War II, bearing an inscription from then President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  He also carries a remarkable abundance of stories, observations and an authentic Alaskan brand of optimism. As the nation remembers the December 7th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor that brought the United States into the Second World War – a “date which will live in infamy” in Roosevelt’s words – Senator Lisa Murkowski is releasing her 19th Veteran Spotlight interview, focusing on the military service of WWII veteran Norman Hogg.  Hogg was just 19 years old when he recalls hearing of the Pearl Harbor attack on the “wireless” radio.  He would join the U.S. Army just a few months later at age 20. During his interview, Hogg recounts being assigned to the Signal Corps, where he would put his Eagle Scout training to good use teaching his fellow soldiers how to survive in life-threatening water combat operations.  Though he remained in the United States throughout his military carrier, Hogg recalls losing his childhood friends to the WWII battles overseas and the impact it had on the rest of his life. (Click here for excerpt of Norman recalling hearing about the Pearl Harbor Attack over the radio. CLICK HERE for the extended interview) “Americans were killed by a foreign country and I knew we were going to war,” said Norman Hogg.  “There was this comradeship between soldiers that I remember.  We became family.  Those 400,000 people who died, they sacrificed their lives, and I am very grateful to them, because otherwise there would have been tyranny.” This past October, Hogg was one of 29 Alaskan World War II veterans who traveled Washington, D.C. to visit the WWI… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/on-pearl-harbor-anniversary-wwii-veteran-says-life-is-magnificent On Pearl Harbor Anniversary, WWII Veteran Says Life is Magnificent 2013-12-07 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.07.13 On Pearl Harbor Anniversary, WWII Veteran Says Life is Magnificent Murkowski Spotlights 90 Year Old Army Veteran to Mark Date Which Will Live in Infamy Anchorage resident Norman Hogg carries with him an Army-issued Bible received during his service time in World War II, bearing an inscription from then President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He also carries a remarkable abundance of stories, observations and an authentic Alaskan brand of optimism. As the nation remembers the December 7th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor that brought the United States into the Second World War a date which will live in infamy in Roosevelt's words Senator Lisa Murkowski is releasing her 19th Veteran Spotlight interview, focusing on the military service of WWII veteran Norman Hogg. Hogg was just 19 years old when he recalls hearing of the Pearl Harbor attack on the wireless radio. He would join the U.S. Army just a few months later at age 20. During his interview, Hogg recounts being assigned to the Signal Corps, where he would put his Eagle Scout training to good use teaching his fellow soldiers how to survive in life-threatening water combat operations. Though he remained in the United States throughout his military carrier, Hogg recalls losing his childhood friends to the WWII battles overseas and the impact it had on the rest of his life. (Click here for excerpt of Norman recalling hearing about the Pearl Harbor Attack over the radio.CLICK HERE for the extended interview) Americans were killed by a foreign country and I knew we were going to war, said Norman Hogg. There was this comradeship between soldiers that I remember. We became family. Those 400,000 people who died, they sacrificed their lives, and I am very grateful to them, because otherwise there would have been tyranny. This past October, Hogg was one of 29 Alaskan World War II veterans who traveled Washington, D.C. to visit the WWII memorial as part of … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=363461 Congressman Young Moves Marine Debris Legislation Forward to Protect Alaskan Waters 2013-12-04 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Alaskan Congressman Don Young today applauded the unanimous passage of two bills from the House Natural Resources Committee that would allow impacted states like Alaska – with more than 44,000 miles of coastline – to receive direct grants from funds donated by the Japanese government in the wake of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, in addition to streamlining the current grant process for marine disasters considered to be “severe.” Congressman Young was the lead Republican sponsor of both bipartisan bills, H.R. 1491 and H.R. 1425, which both successfully passed the committee with amendments he offered.  “Today we unanimously sent two bills to the full House that would help coastal communities in Alaska and in other affected areas with the cleanup of marine debris hitting our shores,” said Congressman Don Young. “As the people of Japan still recover from their earthquake and subsequent tsunami, the United States must brace for what could be years more of waste and debris. This legislation gives organizations and coastal communities the tools to continue the arduous cleanup process, while also improving the response capabilities for future events.” H.R. 1425 would allow a priority process for grants addressing severe marine debris events, including those likely to introduce marine invasive species.  Additionally, H.R. 1425 would allow governors to request the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator to make a severe marine debris determination. H.R. 1491 would allow the Administrator of NOAA to use funds, provided to the U.S. from the Government of Japan, to address debris related to the March 2011 tsunami as grants to any State, locality or tribal government effected by the marine debris event. Furthermore, H.R. 1491 would give NOAA the authority to repay States for past costs of debris removal efforts. In addition to helping pass into law H.R. 1171, the Marine Debris Act Amendment of 2012, Congressman Young has led a continued effort (watch video of Congressman Youn… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=80b2d4b3-333a-434a-b954-d1316c6e6564 Murkowski Hires New Legislative Director 2013-12-02 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.02.13 Murkowski Hires New Legislative Director Senator Promotes Juneau-Born and Raised Former Stevens Staffer to Direct Policy Aims WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Lisa Murkowski today announced the promotion of Kate Williams to become her new Legislative Director in Washington, DC, to oversee her legislative efforts in the United States Senate.  Williams will fill the vacancy created by Tara Shaw’s departure to run the policy operations of Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY). “Kate Williams has a stellar track record of advancing Alaskan issues and serving Alaskans – and I look forward to having her hand guiding our policy aims as we do what’s right for our state and nation,” said Senator Murkowski.  “Kate has been instrumental in guiding oil and gas issues on the Energy Committee; Alaskans will benefit greatly from her guidance on a broader portfolio of issues in her new role as Legislative Director.” Born and raised in Juneau, Kate Williams has had a robust resume rising from front desk staffer for Senator Ted Stevens to eventually becoming his legislative director. After Stevens left office, Williams practiced law in Anchorage, worked for the Alaska Oil and Gas Association and then joined Senator Murkowski’s Energy Committee team as the Oil and Gas Counsel.  She graduated from Juneau-Douglas H.S. received an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and got her law degree from the University of San Diego. Williams begins today.   (Kate Williams)   ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-hires-new-legislative-director Murkowski Hires New Legislative Director 2013-12-02 2013 2013-12 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 12.02.13 Murkowski Hires New Legislative Director Senator Promotes Juneau-Born and Raised Former Stevens Staffer to Direct Policy Aims WASHINGTON, D.C.Senator Lisa Murkowski today announced the promotion of Kate Williams to become her new Legislative Director in Washington, DC, to oversee her legislative efforts in the United States Senate. Williams will fill the vacancy created by Tara Shaw's departure to run the policy operations of Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY). Kate Williams has a stellar track record of advancing Alaskan issues and serving Alaskans and I look forward to having her hand guiding our policy aims as we do what's right for our state and nation, said Senator Murkowski. Kate has been instrumental in guiding oil and gas issues on the Energy Committee; Alaskans will benefit greatly from her guidance on a broader portfolio of issues in her new role as Legislative Director. Born and raised in Juneau, Kate Williams has had a robust resume rising from front desk staffer for Senator Ted Stevens to eventually becoming his legislative director. After Stevens left office, Williams practiced law in Anchorage, worked for the Alaska Oil and Gas Association and then joined Senator Murkowski's Energy Committee team as the Oil and Gas Counsel. She graduated from Juneau-Douglas H.S. received an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and got her law degree from the University of San Diego. Williams begins today. (Kate Williams) ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=370287 Fairbanks Daily News Miner: LETTER - Thoughtful responses 2013-11-29 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Fairbanks Daily News Miner: LETTER - Thoughtful responses By Congressman Don Young f t # e Washington, D.C., November 29, 2013 To the editor: I depend on hearing from all my constituents; their letters, emails and phone calls help me do the job Alaskans have elected me to do for more than 40 years. I take pride in providing thoughtful responses, in a timely manner, for the 40,000-plus constituent interactions my office will receive this year. Providing answers to the many questions and concerns of Alaskans, finding resolutions to problems with federal agencies, and streamlining the bureaucratic processes are all part of my congressional duties. As much as I wish I could ensure every person, every letter, every call was answered with 100 percent accuracy, mistakes sometimes can happen, and for this I offer my apologies. If my response leaves you wanting more information, or in the rare case it goes unanswered, please do not hesitate to follow up with one of my offices. Any one of my capable staff will happily assist you and share your concerns with me directly. I appreciate all those who continue to contact my office, to ask the tough questions and express your thoughts about the direction this country is headed. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=b2b72729-eceb-42ab-9e7a-efc63daf7773 Murkowski Encourages Alaskans to Shop Small this Saturday 2013-11-29 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.29.13 Murkowski Encourages Alaskans to Shop Small this Saturday Alaska’s Small Businesses “Know Us Because They Are Us” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Murkowski shared a message supporting Small Business Saturday.   Click on the image above to watch her video message “This Saturday, November 30th, is small business Saturday across America. We know by now that the Friday after Turkey Day is known affectionately as Black Friday. With people who set their alarm clocks way too early and shoppers stampeding for bargains at the same big box stores. But I’d like to urge you, on Saturday, to get out and support the local businesses that rely on continued community support to thrive. “Small business Saturday is an opportunity to revitalize each and every Alaskan. Local businesses understand the community better than most and their connection to all of us can be seen in their selection of products and services. They know us because they are us. “Because they are us, when you and I visit a local small business and support them. That money stays home, it stays in Alaska. It doesn’t go to the corporate offices in the lower 48. It stays with the employees, with the owners, with the managers and it gets pumped right back into the local economy. “So I encourage you to enjoy the local business community to the fullest. Start your day with a cup of coffee from your favorite barista with a great blend roasted there in town. Go find that unique Alaskan holiday gift that you’re not going to find any national chain carrying.  Buy it for your loved ones and celebrate - say this is homegrown, this is local. Or start a new home improvement project with a can of paint from the local hardware store. “Empower local businesses this Saturday and connect to your community. I know that’s what Verne and I are going to do.” ### … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-encourages-alaskans-to-shop-small-this-saturday Murkowski Encourages Alaskans to Shop Small this Saturday 2013-11-29 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.29.13 Murkowski Encourages Alaskans to Shop Small this Saturday Alaska's Small Businesses Know Us Because They Are Us WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Murkowski shared a message supporting Small Business Saturday. Click on the image above to watch her video message This Saturday, November 30th, is small business Saturday across America. We know by now that the Friday after Turkey Day is known affectionately as Black Friday. With people who set their alarm clocks way too early and shoppers stampeding for bargains at the same big box stores. But I'd like to urge you, on Saturday, to get out and support the local businesses that rely on continued community support to thrive. Small business Saturday is an opportunity to revitalize each and every Alaskan. Local businesses understand the community better than most and their connection to all of us can be seen in their selection of products and services. They know us because they are us. Because they are us, when you and I visit a local small business and support them. That money stays home, it stays in Alaska. It doesn't go to the corporate offices in the lower 48. It stays with the employees, with the owners, with the managers and it gets pumped right back into the local economy. So I encourage you to enjoy the local business community to the fullest. Start your day with a cup of coffee from your favorite barista with a great blend roasted there in town. Go find that unique Alaskan holiday gift that you're not going to find any national chain carrying. Buy it for your loved ones and celebrate - say this is homegrown, this is local. Or start a new home improvement project with a can of paint from the local hardware store. Empower local businesses this Saturday and connect to your community. I know that's what Verne and I are going to do. ### … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=363058 Congressman Don Young Shares a Message with Alaskans this Thanksgiving 2013-11-27 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Congressman Don Young Shares a Message with Alaskans this Thanksgiving f t # e Washington, D.C., November 27, 2013 Washington, D.C. - Alaskan Congressman Don Young today shared the following message with fellow Alaskans this Thanksgiving. “As we begin to gather around the dinner table with friends and family this Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of the many things to be thankful for this year. I am eternally grateful for the servicemen and women who serve to protect the freedoms we hold near and dear to our hearts in our great nation. These men and women, who are often far and away from loved ones during the holidays, serve for a cause much greater than their own. To the people of Alaska, I continue to appreciate the opportunity and support to serve the 49th state in Congress over these last 40 years. I’m thankful to God, for blessing me with good health and the love of family; my two daughters, sons-in-law and 14 grandchildren. “As you join together in good company this holiday season, I hope you may also reflect on the many things that bring you and your family happiness and joy this year. I wish you a very warm beginning to your holiday season.”  f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=cc6881d7-d2cc-4167-b398-edb89ac90e01 Murkowski Sustainability Fight Gets Major Change in Guidelines 2013-11-26 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.26.13 Murkowski Sustainability Fight Gets Major Change in Guidelines Third-Party Alaska Salmon Adversaries Removed From Federal Operation Guide Altogether The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has wiped the names of controversial outside groups that decline to consider Wild Alaska salmon as ‘sustainable’ – when Alaska is the only state to have a sustainability mandate written in its Constitution and salmon known as “the flagship species for sustainability around the world” – from its concessions guidelines after a half-year struggle by Senator Lisa Murkowski.  In a recent letter (attached) from a GSA Assistant Commissioner, the official writes to Senator Murkowski that the agency agrees, and that “American managed fisheries do not require third-party certification to demonstrate responsible and sustainable practices.” The federal government’s internal rules explicitly state “the government does not endorse any particular labeling or documentation system or program over another.”  Despite this, the National Park Service and other government agencies had begun to consult earlier this year with questionable groups like the Marine Stewardship Council to certify whether wild Alaska salmon is ‘sustainable’ – dubbed “a high-priced eco-endorsement” by the Alaska press, due to the fees involved in this label.  But after a strenuous campaign of letters, hearings and proposed legislation from Murkowski, the GSA has reconsidered this dubious (and unnecessary) relationship and removed the third-party groups names from its internal rules. In the GSA’s Concession Sustainability Guidelines released in July (also attached), it read: THEN- Only offer fish/seafood identified as “Best Choices” or “Good Alternatives” on the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch List or certified by Marine Stewardship Council (or equivalent program). A recent revision to the same GSA guidelines reads very differently, now sayi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-sustainability-fight-gets-major-change-in-guidelines Murkowski Sustainability Fight Gets Major Change in Guidelines 2013-11-26 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.26.13 Murkowski Sustainability Fight Gets Major Change in Guidelines Third-Party Alaska Salmon Adversaries Removed From Federal Operation Guide Altogether The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has wiped the names of controversial outside groups that decline to consider Wild Alaska salmon as sustainable' when Alaska is the only state to have a sustainability mandate written in its Constitution and salmon known as the flagship species for sustainability around the world from its concessions guidelines after a half-year struggle by Senator Lisa Murkowski. In a recent letter (attached) from a GSA Assistant Commissioner, the official writes to Senator Murkowski that the agency agrees, and that American managed fisheries do not require third-party certification to demonstrate responsible and sustainable practices. The federal government's internal rules explicitly state the government does not endorse any particular labeling or documentation system or program over another. Despite this, the National Park Service and other government agencies had begun to consult earlier this year with questionable groups like the Marine Stewardship Council to certify whether wild Alaska salmon is sustainable' dubbed a high-priced eco-endorsement by the Alaska press, due to the fees involved in this label. But after a strenuous campaign of letters, hearings and proposed legislation from Murkowski, the GSA has reconsidered this dubious (and unnecessary) relationship and removed the third-party groups names from its internal rules. In the GSA's Concession Sustainability Guidelines released in July (also attached), it read: THEN- Only offer fish/seafood identified as Best Choices or Good Alternatives on the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch List or certified by Marine Stewardship Council (or equivalent program). A recent revision to the same GSA guidelines reads very differently, now saying: NOW- Where s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362785 Congressman Don Young Receives High Honors for Vietnam War Memorial Legislation 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, Alaskan Congressman Don Young was honored by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) for “exemplary and courageous service to the country” for his work on commonsense legislation that will make possible the construction of a state-of-the-art visitor’s education center at the Vietnam Veterans Wall Memorial in Washington, D.C.  Congressman Young was recognized at the VVMF’s “2013 Build the Center Benefit” with the Charles “Mac” Mathias Award for his efforts in passing H.R. 588, the Vietnam Veterans Donor Acknowledgement Act. Congressman Young’s legislation, which was signed into law on July 1st of this year, removes unnecessary fundraising restrictions on the VVMF by allowing them to publicly recognize donors to their future Education Center at the Wall. This bill will help the VVMF make substantial steps forward in raising the nearly $100 million necessary for construction of an education center on the National Mall intended to educate visitors about the Vietnam War and honor the veterans who so honorably served. Congressman Don Young accepting the Charles “Mac” Mathias Award from Former Governor and Former DHS Secretary Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania. “While I am thankful and humbled to receive this distinguished award that has honored great people before me, I must say I do not feel deserving,” said Congressman Don Young when accepting the award. “My role in this Education Center was simple – I did my job and passed commonsense legislation that made right one of our nation’s many wrongs. I was extremely happy to help spearhead this cause through Congress that cuts away the bureaucratic red tape we often see in Washington, D.C., and works to educate the millions of visitors to the Vietnam War Memorial each year at no cost to the taxpayer. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Charles “Mac” Mathias Award was presented to Congressman Don Young on Thursday evening. The award honoring Senator Charles Mathias, the man responsible for choosing the Nati… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=4f8a37c5-618c-40b7-bc0c-8df477f3e6f1 Murkowski Responds to Pentagon Arctic Strategy Announcement 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Responds to Pentagon Arctic Strategy Announcement Senator Appreciates Elevation of Attention and Engagement WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the release of the United States Department of Defense Arctic Strategy showing it wants to be ‘very active and very involved’ in the region, saying: “I welcome the Department of Defense’s increased attention to, and engagement in, the Arctic. All components of the U.S. Government need to be involved to make the Arctic a national priority and our Armed Forces play a vital role toward that end.  There is a tremendous opportunity in front of us for increased international cooperation, collaboration, and partnerships in the Arctic. “While the Arctic is currently considered a low threat level, we want to keep the threat level low as the potential for conflict rises with increased activity and resource development.   The Department of Defense’s Arctic Strategy recognizes this reality.  I appreciated Secretary Hagel sitting down with me last week and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Department moving forward and in ensuring Alaska and our Arctic stakeholders are engaged as the Department moves forward with their Strategy.” Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=9c3d3412-4098-441b-bc0e-2dc481a8b32e Murkowski Launches #AKThanks Campaign, Engages Alaskans 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Launches #AKThanks Campaign, Engages Alaskans Senator’s Focus on Blessings Will Culminate with Tuesday Premiere of Her “Appreciating Alaska” Mini-Documentary WASHINGTON, DC — With Thanksgiving less than a week away, Senator Lisa Murkowski today is inviting Alaskans to focus on what they are grateful for, by starting a social media campaign to initiate a statewide conversation to ‘accentuate the positive.’  The Senator will invite all Alaskans on Facebook and Twitter to share their thoughts and stories, contributing daily the things she is thankful for.  On Tuesday, Murkowski will share the recent “Appreciating Alaska” video project she created with the Alaska Channel. “Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the negative things or the things that bug us, but that’s why we have Thanksgiving: to catch up with loved ones and take a moment to reflect on all the good we enjoy – whether it’s our families, culture, abundant resources and incredible beauty,” said Murkowski.  “Since everything is bigger in Alaska, I think that we should do Thanksgiving bigger, and set aside more than one day – so I’m inviting Alaskans to take this chance to remind ourselves and one another about all there is to celebrate in our lives.” The campaign will consist of every Alaskan online who wants to participate – via pictures, messages or videos via Twitter or Facebook – using the hashtag “#AKThanks.’ Several participating Alaskans’ posts, pictures, tweets or stories will be shared via news release when Senator Murkowski’s “Appreciating Alaska” premieres on Tuesday. (Still from Senator Lisa Murkowski’s mini-doc: “Appreciating Alaska”) ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=ee43291c-6d3e-4d98-8ba5-ba8c4ae5f457 Murkowski Proposes Alaska-Focused Amendments in Defense Bill 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Proposes Alaska-Focused Amendments in Defense Bill Senator: Actions Speak Louder Than Words When Demonstrating Support With the National Defense Authorization Act still before the United States Senate, Senator Lisa Murkowski has submitted a number of amendments focused on supporting Alaska’s military through tangible projects such as rescue helicopters, aircraft and space launch capabilities.  She is also continuing her advocacy to protect victims of military sexual assault and support a ‘culture change’ within the military. Aiming also to improve quality of life issues for the military, Senator Murkowski also offered legislation designed to improve the medical attention and mental health care given to service members, veterans and their families. Another amendment offered by Senator Murkowski would ensure the Alaska Fire Service remains stationed at Fort Wainwright by the Bureau of Land Management. “Our men and women in uniform appreciate our verbal support, but I also believe that actions speak louder than words when it comes time to congressional action,” said Murkowski.  “That’s why I have submitted a number of amendments to the NDAA that will support our troops in a wide range of ways – from providing robust equipment and vehicles to boosting our health care and justice system among the ranks.” Senator Murkowski’s amendments would:  Strengthen Alaska National Guard Aviation – This amendment would require the U.S. Air Force study the nation’s aging combat rescue helicopter fleet with emphasis on the life expectancy of helicopters assigned to Air National Guard rescue squadrons and its plan to replace many of the critical Pave Hawk rescue helicopters used in life-saving search and rescue missions across Alaska that have been worn down through age and use.  Boost Alaska’s Disaster Reponse Capacity – This amendment would require the U.S. Army to offer Governor Parnell title … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-launches-akthanks-campaign-engages-alaskans Murkowski Launches #AKThanks Campaign, Engages Alaskans 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Launches #AKThanks Campaign, Engages Alaskans Senator's Focus on Blessings Will Culminate with Tuesday Premiere of Her Appreciating Alaska Mini-Documentary WASHINGTON, DC With Thanksgiving less than a week away, Senator Lisa Murkowski today is inviting Alaskans to focus on what they are grateful for, by starting a social media campaign to initiate a statewide conversation to accentuate the positive.' The Senator will invite all Alaskans on Facebook and Twitter to share their thoughts and stories, contributing daily the things she is thankful for. On Tuesday, Murkowski will share the recent Appreciating Alaska video project she created with the Alaska Channel. Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in the negative things or the things that bug us, but that's why we have Thanksgiving: to catch up with loved ones and take a moment to reflect on all the good we enjoy whether it's our families, culture, abundant resources and incredible beauty, said Murkowski. Since everything is bigger in Alaska, I think that we should do Thanksgiving bigger, and set aside more than one day so I'm inviting Alaskans to take this chance to remind ourselves and one another about all there is to celebrate in our lives. The campaign will consist of every Alaskan online who wants to participate via pictures, messages or videos via Twitter or Facebook using the hashtag #AKThanks.' Several participating Alaskans' posts, pictures, tweets or stories will be shared via news release when Senator Murkowski's Appreciating Alaska premieres on Tuesday. (Still from Senator Lisa Murkowski's mini-doc: Appreciating Alaska) ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-proposes-alaska-focused-amendments-in-defense-bill Murkowski Proposes Alaska-Focused Amendments in Defense Bill 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Proposes Alaska-Focused Amendments in Defense Bill Senator: Actions Speak Louder Than Words When Demonstrating Support With the National Defense Authorization Act still before the United States Senate, Senator Lisa Murkowski has submitted a number of amendments focused on supporting Alaska's military through tangible projects such as rescue helicopters, aircraft and space launch capabilities. She is also continuing her advocacy to protect victims of military sexual assault and support a culture change' within the military. Aiming also to improve quality of life issues for the military, Senator Murkowski also offered legislation designed to improve the medical attention and mental health care given to service members, veterans and their families. Another amendment offered by Senator Murkowski would ensure the Alaska Fire Service remains stationed at Fort Wainwright by the Bureau of Land Management. Our men and women in uniform appreciate our verbal support, but I also believe that actions speak louder than words when it comes time to congressional action, said Murkowski. That's why I have submitted a number of amendments to the NDAA that will support our troops in a wide range of ways from providing robust equipment and vehicles to boosting our health care and justice system among the ranks. Senator Murkowski's amendments would: Strengthen Alaska National Guard Aviation This amendment would require the U.S. Air Force study the nation's aging combat rescue helicopter fleet with emphasis on the life expectancy of helicopters assigned to Air National Guard rescue squadrons and its plan to replace many of the critical Pave Hawk rescue helicopters used in life-saving search and rescue missions across Alaska that have been worn down through age and use. Boost Alaska's Disaster Reponse Capacity This amendment would require the U.S. Army to offer Governor Parnell title to eight C-2… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-responds-to-pentagon-arctic-strategy-announcement Murkowski Responds to Pentagon Arctic Strategy Announcement 2013-11-22 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.22.13 Murkowski Responds to Pentagon Arctic Strategy Announcement Senator Appreciates Elevation of Attention and Engagement WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the release of the United States Department of Defense Arctic Strategy showing it wants to be very active and very involved' in the region, saying: I welcome the Department of Defense's increased attention to, and engagement in, the Arctic. All components of the U.S. Government need to be involved to make the Arctic a national priority and our Armed Forces play a vital role toward that end. There is a tremendous opportunity in front of us for increased international cooperation, collaboration, and partnerships in the Arctic. While the Arctic is currently considered a low threat level, we want to keep the threat level low as the potential for conflict rises with increased activity and resource development. The Department of Defense's Arctic Strategy recognizes this reality. I appreciated Secretary Hagel sitting down with me last week and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Department moving forward and in ensuring Alaska and our Arctic stakeholders are engaged as the Department moves forward with their Strategy. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362614 Congressman Young Supports State Management of Federal Lands, Highlights Fed’s Failures 2013-11-21 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy “States across the country, including Alaska, have a proven record of success in managing public lands,” said Congressman Young. “Alaska alone manages millions of acres of state parks, forests, historic sites, a network of trails and public use cabins. This legislation addresses the major failure by our federal land management agencies to effectively manage our public lands and provides State agencies the opportunity to do better.” share: f t Washington, D.C. - In a House Natural Resources Subcommittee hearing today, Alaskan Congressman Don Young raised serious concern over the unending failures of the federal lands management agencies in Alaska and across the country, while addressing legislation he introduced to give states the ability to exercise management authority on selected federal lands managed by agencies such as the Forest Service and the National Park Service.  “States across the country, including Alaska, have a proven record of success in managing public lands,” said Congressman Young. “Alaska alone manages millions of acres of state parks, forests, historic sites, a network of trails and public use cabins. This legislation addresses the major failure by our federal land management agencies to effectively manage our public lands and provides State agencies the opportunity to do better.”  Congressman Young’s bill, H.R. 3294, the State Run Federal Lands Act, would provide a process for state controlled management of federal lands for states willing to pay 50 percent of the costs associated with managing the lands. The federal government would retain ownership.  “Our forests are in the worst condition they’ve ever been because of Forest Service inaction,” said Congressman Young. “Fires, pollution of the air, no management, and loss of fiber, are all related to the Forest Service. Regardless of perspective on this solution, I think we can all agree that federal management is both expensive and not working well. By allowing cooperative agreement… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=b72588ce-6ea9-4c4b-ba7c-33b819197e4e Murkowski Statement on U.S. Senate “Power Grab” 2013-11-21 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.21.13 Murkowski Statement on U.S. Senate “Power Grab” Senator - We’ve Seen Where Party Line Votes Get Us: the Health Care Law WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today shared her disappointment with the United States Senate’s vote to eliminate filibuster rights for certain nominations – and according to Reuters news service, “Ditch a Historic Senate Rule” – taking away the Senate Minority’s capacity to influence or impact the nomination process, saying: “Today, Senate Democrats decided they want more party line votes to push their agenda forward without needing to engage a single Republican.  It’s a power grab, plain and simple.  We’ve seen this movie before; it’s called the health care law, and I am astonished that only three Democrats refused to make this drastic political move to change the process. “Yesterday I stood with Senate colleagues from the most conservative side of my party to the left end of the other and we advocated together for changes in the military justice system; ours was a coalition built upon negotiation and solid thinking.  We were working to build policy in a collaborative and cooperative way.  The action on the floor today was a stunning contrast to that collaborative effort. “Today’s vote saddens me more than it angers me.  This is a sad day for the institution of the U.S. Senate, the legislative body designed to guard the views and the voices of the minority and to be – in the words of George Washington – the ‘saucer used to cool the tea.’ Senate Democrats have shattered that saucer into pieces.  I’m afraid today’s rules change will fundamentally alter our operations and lead us to being a less tempered body.”  ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-statement-on-us-senate-power-grab Murkowski Statement on U.S. Senate Power Grab 2013-11-21 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.21.13 Murkowski Statement on U.S. Senate Power Grab Senator - We've Seen Where Party Line Votes Get Us: the Health Care Law WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today shared her disappointment with the United States Senate's vote to eliminate filibuster rights for certain nominations and according to Reuters news service, Ditch a Historic Senate Rule taking away the Senate Minority's capacity to influence or impact the nomination process, saying: Today, Senate Democrats decided they want more party line votes to push their agenda forward without needing to engage a single Republican. It's a power grab, plain and simple. We've seen this movie before; it's called the health care law, and I am astonished that only three Democrats refused to make this drastic political move to change the process. Yesterday I stood with Senate colleagues from the most conservative side of my party to the left end of the other and we advocated together for changes in the military justice system; ours was a coalition built upon negotiation and solid thinking. We were working to build policy in a collaborative and cooperative way. The action on the floor today was a stunning contrast to that collaborative effort. Today's vote saddens me more than it angers me. This is a sad day for the institution of the U.S. Senate, the legislative body designed to guard the views and the voices of the minority and to be in the words of George Washington the saucer used to cool the tea.' Senate Democrats have shattered that saucer into pieces. I'm afraid today's rules change will fundamentally alter our operations and lead us to being a less tempered body. ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362366 Congressman Young Includes Two Alaskan Energy Policies in House Energy Package 2013-11-20 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy “While many Indian tribes and Alaska Native Corporations have made great strides in building businesses and strengthening their economies, tribal communities remain at the bottom of nearly every economic and social indicator,” said Rep. Young in an impassioned speech on the House floor yesterday. “The sad fact is that in 21st century America, severe poverty wears a Native face. Instead of helping tribes make positive strides in energy development, the Obama Administration is erecting new hurdles.” share: f t Washington, D.C. – Two pieces of Alaskan energy legislation introduced by Congressman Don Young were included today within a larger House energy bill, H.R. 1965 the Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act of 2013.  The two bills would help promote energy development for Alaska Native Corporations and Indian tribes as well as expedite exploration and production in the National Petroleum Reserve – Alaska (NPR-A). The combined energy package focusing on domestic onshore energy production and leasing passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 228 - 192. The first bill, the Native American Energy Act, promotes energy development by Indian tribes and Alaska Native Corporations by streamlining the permitting process, deterring frivolous lawsuits, and reducing heavy handed federal regulations that continue to obstruct energy exploration, development, and production on tribal lands, where more than ten percent of our nation’s energy is estimated to be contained. Click here to view Congressman Young speaking on behalf of the “Native American Energy Act” on the House Floor Congressman Young emphasized outdated federal policies that continue to prevent tribes the ability to develop areas rich in untapped energy resources, citing the 56 million acres of lands held in trust by the federal government for the benefit of Indians and the 44 million acres owned in fee by Alaska Native Corporations. “While many Indian tribes and Alaska Native Corporat… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362419 Congress Honors Tlingit Code Talkers, Forgotten Heroes of Both World Wars 2013-11-20 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C.- Senators Lisa Murkowski, Mark Begich, and Congressman Don Young today honored the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska and 32 other tribes from across the country with the highest honor bestowed by Congress, the Congressional Gold Medal, for their critical service and unrecognized role as Code Talkers during both World Wars.  The honor bestowed upon Alaska’s five Tlingit Code Talkers today represents Congress’ “highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The Tlingit and Haida tribe was represented at a ceremony hosted in the United States Capitol by three Alaskans; Commander William “Ozzie” Sheakley, William Thomas Jr., and Jeff David Jr. – a Tlingit code talker descendant. In addition to the 33 gold medals presented today, more than 200 silver medals were presented to the code talkers and their families. “The critical role these men played in sparing the lives of fellow servicemen is remarkable,” said Representative Don Young.  “By communicating in spoken code at places like Iwo Jima and Normandy, these fine men forever changed history. Because of them, we were able to relay real-time information on enemy positions, provide directions to troops on the ground, and gather intelligence that helped us end a dark time in the world’s history.” “These Tlingit soldiers bravely passed along our nation’s secrets at a very difficult time, but their story should not be a secret to Americans today,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski.  “Alaska’s World War II history is far too often an untold and unappreciated part of our nation’s history.  Our territory was occupied in the Aleutians, our first people represented the Alaska Territorial Guard and our Code Talkers stepped forward with a willingness to defend a nation they had yet to fully belong to.  I thank them and their people for their courage and commitment.” “Today is a proud and long overdue day for members of the Tlingit tribe and the families of the Tlingit code talkers,” said Se… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=275fc6f7-9750-42c1-b6a9-4f9fdd0fd8f9 Murkowski: Alaskan Examples Bear Witness to Need for Military “Culture Change,” Pushes Need for Transparency 2013-11-20 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.20.13 Murkowski: Alaskan Examples Bear Witness to Need for Military “Culture Change,” Pushes Need for Transparency Senator’s Floor Speech: “This is Not What Zero Tolerance Looks Like” WASHINGTON, DC — With the United States Senate debating S.1197, the National Defense Authorization Bill, Senator Lisa Murkowski today spoke on the Senate floor to continue her advocacy for S.967, the Military Justice Improvement Act (MJIA) to deliver the “culture change” on sexual misconduct within the Armed Forces that the Secretary of Defense himself has acknowledged is necessary. Co-sponsored by Senator Murkowski in May, the bill would eliminate many obstacles faced by victims of military sexual assault who often decide not to report the crimes due to the bias and inherent conflicts of interest within the military chain of command.  Repeatedly, Murkowski called for more transparency in the meting out of justice – saying that the MJIA would provide a ‘breath of fresh air’ in the culture. The United States Senate is presently weighing a number of approaches to dealing with this problem, but Murkowski is backing the effort that has attracted broad political support from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) – the bill’s sponsor – to Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Rand Paul (R-KY) and Ted Cruz (R-TX). In a floor speech meant to encourage more Senate colleagues to consider the approach taken by this bill, Senator Murkowski laid out this legislation’s advantages: The current system of military judgment relies upon the individual decisions of commanders for a decision on whether or not an offense is to be punished and which charges are to be brought. In our complex military, there are many, many commanders and while our code of military justice, may be uniform — we're seeing strong evidence that its implementation is anything but uniform.  Senator Gillibrand's approach ensures that charges will be investigated and that the charging decision will be made by disinterested military prosecutors whose only interest is that th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-alaskan-examples-bear-witness-to-need-for-military-culture-change-pushes-need-for-transparency Murkowski: Alaskan Examples Bear Witness to Need for Military Culture Change, Pushes Need for Transparency 2013-11-20 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.20.13 Murkowski: Alaskan Examples Bear Witness to Need for Military Culture Change, Pushes Need for Transparency Senator's Floor Speech: This is Not What Zero Tolerance Looks Like WASHINGTON, DC With the United States Senate debating S.1197, the National Defense Authorization Bill, Senator Lisa Murkowski today spoke on the Senate floor to continue her advocacy for S.967, the Military Justice Improvement Act (MJIA) to deliver the culture change on sexual misconduct within the Armed Forces that the Secretary of Defense himself has acknowledged is necessary. Co-sponsored by Senator Murkowski in May, the bill would eliminate many obstacles faced by victims of military sexual assault who often decide not to report the crimes due to the bias and inherent conflicts of interest within the military chain of command. Repeatedly, Murkowski called for more transparency in the meting out of justice saying that the MJIA would provide a breath of fresh air' in the culture. The United States Senate is presently weighing a number of approaches to dealing with this problem, but Murkowski is backing the effort that has attracted broad political support from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) the bill's sponsor to Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Rand Paul (R-KY) and Ted Cruz (R-TX). In a floor speech meant to encourage more Senate colleagues to consider the approach taken by this bill, Senator Murkowski laid out this legislation's advantages: The currentsystem of military judgmentrelies upon the individualdecisions of commanders for adecision on whether or not anoffense is to be punished andwhich charges are to be brought.In our complex military, thereare many, many commanders and while our code ofmilitary justice, may beuniform we'reseeing strong evidence that itsimplementation is anything butuniform. Senator Gillibrand's approachensures that charges will beinvestigated and that thecharging decision will be madeby disinterested militaryprosecutors whoseonly interest is that theperpetrators account for theirac… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=201283e8-7e04-4bcb-afb9-33a4e663f163 Murkowski Urges Detailed Arctic Agenda At State Department 2013-11-19 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.19.13 Murkowski Urges Detailed Arctic Agenda At State Department Senator Visits with Secretary of State to Push Arctic Conversation Beyond Talking Points WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today visited the State Department for a face-to-face meeting with Secretary John Kerry, where she continued her work with international global leaders to pave a path towards an effective Arctic strategy for the United States. During the meeting, Senator Murkowski raised the issue of defining the United States’ action plan in anticipation of the United States assuming the Chairmanship of the Arctic Council in May 2015, with Murkowski expressing a desire for increased activity by the State Department to be actively engaged in creating a detailed action plan.  Secretary Kerry agreed with her that a clear agenda laying out concrete goals with input from all stakeholders would be developed.   “Alaskans know the position we’re in at this moment; they read it and hear it every day: ‘America is an Arctic Nation,’ ‘the Arctic is an abundant region, full of opportunities’ and ‘we need to map out an Arctic Future.’ These are all true, broad facts, but the most crucial step is the next one: what next and how do we move forward right now?” said Murkowski. “We must dig in on the details now about what our next steps are – because our neighbors in the Arctic Circle have already begun moving forward and we cannot fall further behind.”   Senator Murkowski Discusses America’s Arctic Future with Secretary of State John Kerry – Photo Credit: Department of State Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-urges-detailed-arctic-agenda-at-state-department Murkowski Urges Detailed Arctic Agenda At State Department 2013-11-19 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.19.13 Murkowski Urges Detailed Arctic Agenda At State Department Senator Visits with Secretary of State to Push Arctic Conversation Beyond Talking Points WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today visited the State Department for a face-to-face meeting with Secretary John Kerry, where she continued her work with international global leaders to pave a path towards an effective Arctic strategy for the United States. During the meeting, Senator Murkowski raised the issue of defining the United States' action plan in anticipation of the United States assuming the Chairmanship of the Arctic Council in May 2015, with Murkowski expressing a desire for increased activity by the State Department to be actively engaged in creating a detailed action plan. Secretary Kerry agreed with her that a clear agenda laying out concrete goals with input from all stakeholders would be developed. Alaskans know the position we're in at this moment; they read it and hear it every day: America is an Arctic Nation,' the Arctic is an abundant region, full of opportunities' and we need to map out an Arctic Future.' These are all true, broad facts, but the most crucial step is the next one: what next and how do we move forward right now? said Murkowski. We must dig in on the details now about what our next steps are because our neighbors in the Arctic Circle have already begun moving forward and we cannot fall further behind. Senator Murkowski Discusses America's Arctic Future with Secretary of State John Kerry Photo Credit: Department of State Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=Newsletters&ContentRecord_id=63f8b373-a393-4b6a-acf4-3786c55461b4 Senator Murkowski's E-Newsletter for the week of November 17, 2013 2013-11-17 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.17.13 Senator Murkowski's E-Newsletter for the week of November 17, 2013 Wrap up from Alaska to DC: Veterans Day: Veterans Day is a day the nation sets aside to reflect, honor and appreciate those who have put their lives on the line for our country and our freedoms. Here in Alaska, we have the highest concentration of vets in America. Seventy-seven thousands of our neighbors, co-workers and best friends have answered the call to serve. It is important to recognize not only their sacrifice, but also the sacrifice of their families, not just once a year, but every day. Words cannot express the appreciation I and so many Alaskans feel for our warriors and veterans. From the bottom of my heart: Thank you. I had the honor of placing a wreath at the National Cemetery on JBER at a Canadian Remembrance Day ceremony. The annual Veterans Day event at JBER is a ceremony that also acknowledges the contributions of Canadians who have fought with us. Thomas Struth celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday, 11-12-13. It was an honor to meet this WWII and Korea war veteran.  Veteran Spotlight- Korea Veteran Herb Stettler: I am pleased to share the most recent edition of my Veteran Spotlight featuring Kenai resident Herb Stettler, who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. These days, Stettler is an active member of the Kenai Peninsula veteran community, supporting his fellow veterans and honoring their sacrifice at local events and ceremonies. Stettler enlisted in the Army at age 20 and his superior officers capitalized on his farm-honed strength by making him a machine gun operator.  During his 13 month Korean War tour, Stettler says there were some “hairy times” and he was often called upon to provide machine gun cover for his fellow soldiers to escape enemy fire. Today, at 82 years old, he is an active officer for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10046 and the American Legion where he works to honor veterans, their service, and our country.  It’s a commitment the Kenai community returned in… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361772 Rep. Young Supports Plan to Right President’s Broken Promise 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Alaskan Congressman Don Young today praised the final passage of H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act, legislation he cosponsored to allow millions of Americans with canceled healthcare policies under the Affordable Care Act the ability to keep their existing plans. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation makes good on the President’s broken promise that every American would be able to remain under their current insurance policy.  “Today’s passage of the Keep Your Health Plan Act gives the estimated 5,400 Alaskans and 5 million Americans who received cancellation notices the ability to remain on the plans the President assured them for years they would be able to stay on,” said Rep. Young. “It’s very clear that the American public is fed up and tired with the lies surrounding the Affordable Care Act and are demanding these failures be changed. I’ve said it many times before, Alaskans deserve better than this law and the only way to truly negate the negative effects is to fully repeal and replace it.” The Keep Your Health Plan Act passed the House by a vote of 261-157, with 39 House Democrats joining the effort. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361817 Rep. Young: “Customs and Border Protection got the message loud and clear” 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Rep. Young: “Customs and Border Protection got the message loud and clear” f t # e Washington, D.C., November 15, 2013 Alaskan Congressman Don Young received positive news today from the U.S. Custom and Border Protection (CBP) that they have reversed their decision to deny increased international travel to the Fairbanks International Airport by limiting landing rights for Air North – a Yukon Territory based airline service working closely with Holland America to bring visitors to Alaska. The decision comes only days after Congressman Young wrote CBP Assistant Commissioner Susan T. Mitchell asking the agency to reconsider their position, citing numerous reasons (click here to view the letter).  “I am glad to hear that CBP got the message loud and clear and found room to make this right,” said Rep. Young. “The permanent addition of three CBP staff to Fairbanks International Airport, without affecting other international travel, is a victory for not only Fairbanks but our state’s entire tourism industry – laying the foundation for substantially greater travel to the Interior. It was pretty clear to me that CBP’s original decision was shortsighted.” The joint effort between the Alaska Delegation and Governor Parnell to seek reversal of the CBP decision began earlier this summer when the Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau brought the issue to their attention. The unified efforts between all parties represented much more than two seasonal flights to Fairbanks, but larger issues surrounding one of Alaska’s greatest industries. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=1213affa-0412-487b-8318-95f840706e0b Murkowski: Customs and Border Patrol Decision Makes Fairbanks a Year-Round Destination 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.15.13 Murkowski: Customs and Border Patrol Decision Makes Fairbanks a Year-Round Destination Senator: “We Made Our Case - and Then Some” WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the news that United States Customs and Border Protection is permanently creating three new customs positions slots at Fairbanks International Airport – not only permitting the Dawson City to Fairbanks summer flights initially denied, but opening up new possibilities for the Golden Heart City to attract more visitors year-round: “When Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initially decided to deny additional summer flights to transport 19,000 Holland America cruise tour passengers into Fairbanks, I mobilized the delegation’s resources and brought the Alaska stakeholders to a table with CBP and explained the greater meaning this move would have for Interior Alaska’s expanding international visitor industry.  Together with the Fairbanks community, it is clear we made our case – and then some.  This is more than a silver lining to the storm cloud that we saw overhead for a bit; this is an open door to 365 days of more international tourism and an increased stream of visitors, commerce and visibility for all of Alaska, but especially the Interior and Alaska's northern region." Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=5be005c2-8e6c-4148-bdfb-94f064fb46bf Murkowski Bill Would Arm Soldiers With Information on Strain, Stress 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.15.13 Murkowski Bill Would Arm Soldiers With Information on Strain, Stress Senator Introduces Military Mental Health Improvement Act, To Combat Suicides By Reducing Stigma Through Better Information WASHINGTON, DC — As the United States Senate prepares to debate the National Defense Authorization Act – authorizing military pay, benefits and some policy initiatives – next week, Senator Lisa Murkowski is prioritizing our men and women in uniform by introducing S.1703, the Military Mental Health Improvement Act.  This bill would clearly and comprehensively communicate exactly how their mental health records can be accessed or used throughout their career to service members when they enter the military – so that misinformation that would make them more reluctant to share problems is not given a chance to take hold. “Military service on American soil and aboard is an intense and often life-changing experience for our troops, resulting in unseen scars that too many believe they must tolerate in deafening silence,” said Murkowski.  “There is a considerable stigma attached to seeking psychological help to treat the spectrum of stress and depression – where soldiers incorrectly believe their file will be flagged and their military career path will be hurt.  One of the bravest things someone can do is to ask for help; I believe that improving the information flow will keep soldiers from believing they must choose between their career and their health.” More members of the U.S. military took their own lives (349) in 2012 than the number of combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan combined, which many mental health care providers and active duty military trace back to the stigma of seeking the care of a psychologist and the rampant myths that making that call or appointment would impede one’s professional advancement pursuit. Murkowski’s introduction of the bill has already been appreciated by veterans groups nat… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-bill-would-arm-soldiers-with-information-on-strain-stress Murkowski Bill Would Arm Soldiers With Information on Strain, Stress 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.15.13 Murkowski Bill Would Arm Soldiers With Information on Strain, Stress Senator Introduces Military Mental Health Improvement Act, To Combat Suicides By Reducing Stigma Through Better Information WASHINGTON, DC As the United States Senate prepares to debate the National Defense Authorization Act authorizing military pay, benefits and some policy initiatives next week, Senator Lisa Murkowski is prioritizing our men and women in uniform by introducing S.1703, the Military Mental Health Improvement Act. This bill would clearly and comprehensively communicate exactly how their mental health records can be accessed or used throughout their career to service members when they enter the military so that misinformation that would make them more reluctant to share problems is not given a chance to take hold. Military service on American soil and aboard is an intense and often life-changing experience for our troops, resulting in unseen scars that too many believe they must tolerate in deafening silence, said Murkowski. There is a considerable stigma attached to seeking psychological help to treat the spectrum of stress and depression where soldiers incorrectly believe their file will be flagged and their military career path will be hurt. One of the bravest things someone can do is to ask for help; I believe that improving the information flow will keep soldiers from believing they must choose between their career and their health. More members of the U.S. military took their own lives (349) in 2012 than the number of combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan combined, which many mental health care providers and active duty military trace back to the stigma of seeking the care of a psychologist and the rampant myths that making that call or appointment would impede one's professional advancement pursuit. Murkowski's introduction of the bill has already been appreciated by veterans groups nationwide. The… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-customs-and-border-patrol-decision-makes-fairbanks-a-year-round-destination Murkowski: Customs and Border Patrol Decision Makes Fairbanks a Year-Round Destination 2013-11-15 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.15.13 Murkowski: Customs and Border Patrol Decision Makes Fairbanks a Year-Round Destination Senator: We Made Our Case - and Then Some WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today responded to the news that United States Customs and Border Protection is permanently creating three new customs positions slots at Fairbanks International Airport not only permitting the Dawson City to Fairbanks summer flights initially denied, but opening up new possibilities for the Golden Heart City to attract more visitors year-round: When Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initially decided to deny additional summer flights to transport 19,000 Holland America cruise tour passengers into Fairbanks, I mobilized the delegation's resources and brought the Alaska stakeholders to a table with CBP and explained the greater meaning this move would have for Interior Alaska's expanding international visitor industry. Together with the Fairbanks community, it is clear we made our case and then some. This is more than a silver lining to the storm cloud that we saw overhead for a bit; this is an open door to 365 days of more international tourism and an increased stream of visitors, commerce and visibility for all of Alaska, but especially the Interior and Alaska's northern region." Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=6e859fd4-2eb9-4343-948f-b83e7f3d1972 Murkowski Responds to Obama Health Care Reversal 2013-11-14 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.14.13 Murkowski Responds to Obama Health Care Reversal “This Does Not Keep the Promise Made to Alaskans, and It Does Not Fix The Problem” Senator Lisa Murkowski shared the following response to President Barack Obama’s news that he will allow exchanges to restore cancelled insurance plans for a year: “President Obama’s so-called ‘fix’ today amounts to little more than a punt in several directions. He punted health care cancellations for another year, but didn’t resolve any other issues with the law. He punted the discretion to deliver on this ‘keep your health care’ promise to health commissioners across the country.  He punted on fulfilling his promise for a year back to the health care insurance companies. “The President’s promise was pretty simple – if you like your health care plan, you can keep it.  Period.  Now, in response to a spectacular failure of a rollout of the exchange and the outrage of millions of Americans, he has recalibrated.  Now you can keep your health care at least for the next year if your provider will reissue it.  This does not keep the promise made to Alaskans, and it does not fix the problem.” Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=f59f6ef2-abdd-435a-8116-ba5e2349eaf9 Murkowski “Incredulous” at Indian Health Service’s Failure to Fully Fund Native Health Clinic Contracts 2013-11-14 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.14.13 Murkowski “Incredulous” at Indian Health Service’s Failure to Fully Fund Native Health Clinic Contracts “I Feel Like I Am Fighting the Administration” to Abide by Supreme Court Ruling WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today had a candid exchange with the Director of the Indian Health Service over the Obama administration’s continuing refusal to fully fund the contract support costs for tribal health care providers nationwide, saying she is “incredulous that we are still living through this” fight. Contract support costs are the operational costs of tribes to manage tribal health programs –including personal management systems, liability insurance, and facility support costs. Last year, the Supreme Court ruled in the case Ramah vs Salazar that tribes should be fully compensated to for the operation of self-governance contracts in delivering the promises of the Federal trust responsibility. Murkowski also rebuffed President Obama’s recent comments at the White House Tribal Nations Summit acknowledging his administration is shortchanging native tribes but seeking answers.  “I went to the summit to focus on what the President would say about Contract Support Costs.  The President said ‘I hear you loud and clear and we need to find answers,’” recalled Murkowski in her introduction. (clip below) “We don’t need to find answers; I think the Supreme Court laid it out very clearly – full reimbursement must be provided.” (Murkowski on Obama claim: Supreme Court’s decision requiring full funding was “unequivocal” – click image to watch statement.) When the time came for questioning witnesses, Murkowski again referred back to the Ramah ruling when she opened her line of questioning.  She focused on the administration’s continuing practice of shortchanging tribes despite the Supreme Court ruling. “I am still incredulous that we are still living through this.  I had to work with my colleagues here in th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-incredulous-at-indian-health-services-failure-to-fully-fund-native-health-clinic-contracts Murkowski Incredulous at Indian Health Services Failure to Fully Fund Native Health Clinic Contracts 2013-11-14 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.14.13 Murkowski Incredulous at Indian Health Service's Failure to Fully Fund Native Health Clinic Contracts I Feel Like I Am Fighting the Administration to Abide by Supreme Court Ruling WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today had a candid exchange with the Director of the Indian Health Service over the Obama administration's continuing refusal to fully fund the contract support costs for tribal health care providers nationwide, saying she is incredulous that we are still living through this fight.Contract support costs are the operational costs of tribes to manage tribal health programs including personal management systems, liability insurance, and facility support costs. Last year, the Supreme Court ruled in the case Ramah vs Salazar that tribes should be fully compensated to for the operation of self-governance contracts in delivering the promises of the Federal trust responsibility. Murkowski also rebuffed President Obama's recent comments at the White House Tribal Nations Summit acknowledging his administration is shortchanging native tribes but seeking answers. I went to the summit to focus on what the President would say about Contract Support Costs. The President said I hear you loud and clear and we need to find answers,' recalled Murkowski in her introduction. (clip below) We don't need to find answers; I think the Supreme Court laid it out very clearly full reimbursement must be provided. (Murkowski on Obama claim: Supreme Court's decision requiring full funding was unequivocal click image to watch statement.) When the time came for questioning witnesses, Murkowski again referred back to the Ramah ruling when she opened her line of questioning. She focused on the administration's continuing practice of shortchanging tribes despite the Supreme Court ruling. I am still incredulous that we are still living through this. I had to work with my colleagues here in the Senate and on the Hou… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-responds-to-obama-health-care-reversal Murkowski Responds to Obama Health Care Reversal 2013-11-14 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.14.13 Murkowski Responds to Obama Health Care Reversal This Does Not Keep the Promise Made to Alaskans, and It Does Not Fix The Problem Senator Lisa Murkowski shared the following response to President Barack Obama's news that he will allow exchanges to restore cancelled insurance plans for a year: President Obama's so-called fix' today amounts to little more than a punt in several directions. He punted health care cancellations for another year, but didn't resolve any other issues with the law. He punted the discretion to deliver on this keep your health care' promise to health commissioners across the country. He punted on fulfilling his promise for a year back to the health care insurance companies. The President's promise was pretty simple if you like your health care plan, you can keep it. Period. Now, in response to a spectacular failure of a rollout of the exchange and the outrage of millions of Americans, he has recalibrated. Now you can keep your health care at least for the next year if your provider will reissue it. This does not keep the promise made to Alaskans, and it does not fix the problem. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361311 Rep. Young Unsurprised by Low Enrollment Numbers, Underscores Failures of Law 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Today Alaskan Congressman Don Young issued the following statement in response to the Department of Health and Human Services release of Affordable Care Act enrollment numbers. “After nearly 4 years of planning and preparation for the rollout of this unsound healthcare law, the Administration has failed the American public once again by spending nearly $600 million taxpayer dollars on an unsecured, untested, and unworkable infrastructure to register and sign up for the healthcare exchange. Today’s enrollment numbers underscore the failures of this law and are a true reflection of what my colleagues and I have been saying for years; this law is a sinking ship with too many holes to fill.” “As a cosponsor of H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act, I look forward to the House passing legislation this week that gives Americans the right to keep the healthcare plans they like – one of the many promises the President has failed to keep. I will continue my efforts to relieve the hardship and pain inflicted upon Alaskans by working to delay, repeal and replace this law.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361354 Rep. Young Joins Growing Support for Fishery Disaster Relief 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Alaskan Congressman Don Young today joined 38 members of Congress in signing a bipartisan letter urging leadership in both the House and Senate to include fishery disaster relief in the final funding package for Fiscal Year (FY) 2014. The bipartisan coalition from coastal states across the country emphasized the devastating impacts fisheries disasters have had on coastal communities over recent years, and why these federally declared disasters should not be overlooked. “Alaskans rely heavily on fish for basic survival – especially those living on the Yukon River, Kuskokwim River and Cook Inlet,” said Representative Don Young. “When disaster strikes, it can come in many forms, even fisheries disaster. We owe it to the people of Alaska, and those affected by similar disasters across the country to include federal relief for authorized disasters that have not received appropriations.” In the attached letter, Congressman Young and the 37 co-authors wrote: Since 2012, the Department of Commerce declared a number of fishery failures in the United States. Regrettably funding has not been appropriated yet to deal with the effects of these disasters, which continue to affect communities in our states and districts. Indeed, while the Senate Appropriations Committee has included $150 million for fishery failures in the FY 2014 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) appropriations bill, funds have not been enacted into law to address the full spectrum of disaster needs. The 2012 federally declared disasters addressed in the letter are: ·         Alaska Chinook – On September 12, 2012, a federal fisheries disaster was declared for Alaska Chinook salmon fisheries in the Yukon River, Kuskokwim River and Cook Inlet.  ·         Mississippi Oyster and Blue Crab – On September 12, 2012, a federal fisheries disaster was declared for commercial oyster and blue crab fisheries in Mississippi.  ·         Northeast Multispecies Groundfish Fishery – On September 13, 2012, a federal fisheries disaste… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=702d697c-e0ee-441a-9515-fe7952c8b8c4 Flawed Eielson F-16 Proposal Suggests Sequestration Driving Military Strategy 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.13.13 Flawed Eielson F-16 Proposal Suggests Sequestration Driving Military Strategy Senator Questions Strategy When Making Cuts - “What is the Target Here?” Lower 48 Mayor Agrees With Need for Discretion When Seeking Savings WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today seized an opportunity during a Capitol Hill hearing to continue pressing for agencies to have discretion when making mandatory, across-the-board sequestration cuts – using the example of the recently-scuttled proposal to transfer F-16 aircraft from Eielson AFB to Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson.  Calling it an “eye opener,” Murkowski lamented the fact that the cuts are driving strategy instead of the other way around. During a Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee hearing focused on “Sequestration Impacts on Defense Programs,” Senator Murkowski began with an opening statement focusing on the flawed reasoning of the United States Air Force proposal, forced upon them by the blind cuts imposed by sequestration on all programs.  “Are we really working towards a strategy, or is the strategy being driven by sequestration,” asked Murkowski, before reminding her Senate colleagues that this transfer proposal had been made amid a heightened Pentagon focus on the Pacific region, closing with “Don’t you need to have these assets here?” (Eielson was “a real eye opener for us.” – Click image to watch except cited below. Click here to see Murkowski share how the Eielson proposal originated.) Excerpt: “It was a real eye opener for us in the sense that what was happening was this decision was being driven by a request to drive costs down: a budget request.  In the long run it was going to be a bad move for the Air Force and the Air Force changed their position – not without a little encouragement from the delegation, I might add.  But it was an opportunity to focus and force that conversation about “well what was the strategy here.” Mr. Chairman, I am so concerned that in an effort to chase the dollars – in an effort to drive down costs –… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=e53dbb8f-457c-4be6-8237-a5028293cfec Murkowski Doubles Fishery Failure Relief Support on Capitol Hill 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.13.13 Murkowski Doubles Fishery Failure Relief Support on Capitol Hill Senator Attracts Twenty Two New Congressional Lawmakers to her Original “Coastal Coalition” of Sixteen Senators WASHINGTON, D.C. – In her continuing efforts to secure federal relief funds for Alaskan communities along the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers – as well as Cook Inlet – damaged by low salmon runs in 2012, Senator Lisa Murkowski today more than doubled the number of lawmakers on both sides of Capitol Hill advocating for resources for fisheries that have experienced their own “fish droughts” over the past two years. Murkowski already established strong bipartisan backing from 15 of her Senate colleagues earlier this year.  Her continued efforts to boost the visibility of the issue can be seen in today’s letter to Congressional leadership from lawmakers concerned about fishery failure funds.  Beyond the original sixteen legislators, today’s letter includes three more Senate colleagues from the East Coast – Senators Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) – as well as nineteen members of the House of Representatives, bringing the total to 38 signatories. In the letter (below), Murkowski and the co-signatories write: For the communities they affect, fisheries disasters are as devastating as other federally-declared disasters.  Therefore, we request your assistance in ensuring that the $150 million fisheries disaster mitigation fund included in the Senate-version of the CJS appropriations bill is included in any final FY 2014 funding package.  These funds could be used in a variety of ways to provide fishermen vital help including support for emergency financial assistance, operational costs where necessary, economic development programs and science to manage the fishery in a timely way that gives confidence to all stakeholders. Murkowski’s Fisheries Disaster Funding Efforts Today’s development marks just the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/flawed-eielson-f-16-proposal-suggests-sequestration-driving-military-strategy Flawed Eielson F-16 Proposal Suggests Sequestration Driving Military Strategy 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.13.13 Flawed Eielson F-16 Proposal Suggests Sequestration Driving Military Strategy Senator Questions Strategy When Making Cuts - What is the Target Here? Lower 48 Mayor Agrees With Need for Discretion When Seeking Savings WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today seized an opportunity during a Capitol Hill hearing to continue pressing for agencies to have discretion when making mandatory, across-the-board sequestration cuts using the example of the recently-scuttled proposal to transfer F-16 aircraft from Eielson AFB to Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson. Calling it an eye opener, Murkowski lamented the fact that the cuts are driving strategy instead of the other way around. During a Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee hearing focused on Sequestration Impacts on Defense Programs, Senator Murkowski began with an opening statement focusing on the flawed reasoning of the United States Air Force proposal, forced upon them by the blind cuts imposed by sequestration on all programs. Are we really working towards a strategy, or is the strategy being driven by sequestration, asked Murkowski, before reminding her Senate colleagues that this transfer proposal had been made amid a heightened Pentagon focus on the Pacific region, closing with Don't you need to have these assets here? (Eielson was a real eye opener for us. Click image to watch except cited below. Click here to see Murkowski share how the Eielson proposal originated.) Excerpt: It was a real eye opener for us in the sense that what was happening was this decision was being driven by a request to drive costs down: a budget request. In the long run it was going to bea bad move for the Air Force and the Air Force changed their position not without a little encouragement from the delegation, I might add. But it was an opportunity to focus and force that conversation about well what was the strategy here. Mr. Chairman, I am so concerned that in an effort to chase the dollars in an effort to drive down costs we are putting our countr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-doubles-fishery-failure-relief-support-on-capitol-hill Murkowski Doubles Fishery Failure Relief Support on Capitol Hill 2013-11-13 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.13.13 Murkowski Doubles Fishery Failure Relief Support on Capitol Hill Senator Attracts Twenty Two New Congressional Lawmakers to her Original Coastal Coalition of Sixteen Senators WASHINGTON, D.C. In her continuing efforts to secure federal relief funds for Alaskan communities along the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers as well as Cook Inlet damaged by low salmon runs in 2012, Senator Lisa Murkowski today more than doubled the number of lawmakers on both sides of Capitol Hill advocating for resources for fisheries that have experienced their own fish droughts over the past two years. Murkowski already established strong bipartisan backing from 15 of her Senate colleagues earlier this year. Her continued efforts to boost the visibility of the issue can be seen in today's letter to Congressional leadership from lawmakers concerned about fishery failure funds. Beyond the original sixteen legislators, today's letter includes three more Senate colleagues from the East Coast Senators Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) as well as nineteen members of the House of Representatives, bringing the total to 38 signatories. In the letter (below), Murkowski and the co-signatories write: For the communities they affect, fisheries disasters are as devastating as other federally-declared disasters. Therefore, we request your assistance in ensuring that the $150 million fisheries disaster mitigation fund included in the Senate-version of the CJS appropriations bill is included in any final FY 2014 funding package. These funds could be used in a variety of ways to provide fishermen vital help including support for emergency financial assistance, operational costs where necessary, economic development programs and science to manage the fishery in a timely way that gives confidence to all stakeholders. Murkowski's Fisheries Disaster Funding Efforts Today's development marks just the latest effor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361120 Alaska Delegation Pushes for Equal Treatment for Indian Health Service and VA 2013-11-12 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Alaska’s Congressional Delegation is advocating that Congress use the same approach it does with the Veterans Administration and fund the Indian Health Service one year in advance, to avoid the recurring and needless uncertainty faced by Alaska Native health care providers and those of providers for all indigenous people.  Given the fact that the IHS has received its funding on time only once in the last fifteen years, the delegation wrote a letter pressing House and Senate Budget Committee Leadership to foster an environment for future budgets that does away with this nearly annual stress on the system: Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich joined Congressman Don Young in writing: “We respectfully request your support in allowing Congress to fund the Indian Health Service (IHS) on the same advance appropriations schedule that is currently used for Veteran Administration (VA) medical accounts.  This request would not require increased appropriations. We simply ask the Budget Conference to enable Congress to fund IHS one fiscal year in advance. “Congress, in enacting the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009, authorized advance appropriations for the VA.  Congress supported this effort in an overwhelming, bipartisan manner.  The VA and IHS are the only agencies that provide direct, federally-funded healthcare to specific populations and both agencies provide the services pursuant to longstanding federal policies.  Providing for the healthcare of our nation’s Native peoples is a critical component of our federal trust responsibility to tribes…” They also spotlighted the consistency of this problem by pointing out: “Since 1998, the Interior Appropriations bill, which funds IHS, has only once been enacted on time...” Closing out the letter, they informed the Conferees that this concept has national support: “Enabling advance appropriations for IHS is supported by a number of Native organizations and veterans advocacy groups including: the National Congress of Amer… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=0761d9a5-b0cf-4664-93e3-34245885dd65 Alaska Delegation Pushes for Equal Treatment for Indian Health Service and VA 2013-11-12 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.12.13 Alaska Delegation Pushes for Equal Treatment for Indian Health Service and VA Alaskan Lawmakers Seek Forward Funding for I.H.S. Consistent with How Resources are Directed to Veterans Administration WASHINGTON, D.C. – Alaska’s Congressional Delegation is advocating that Congress use the same approach it does with the Veterans Administration and fund the Indian Health Service one year in advance, to avoid the recurring and needless uncertainty faced by Alaska Native health care providers and those of providers for all indigenous people.  Given the fact that the IHS has received its funding on time only once in the last fifteen years, the delegation wrote a letter pressing House and Senate Budget Committee Leadership to foster an environment for future budgets that does away with this nearly annual stress on the system:  Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich joined Congressman Don Young in writing: “We respectfully request your support in allowing Congress to fund the Indian Health Service (IHS) on the same advance appropriations schedule that is currently used for Veteran Administration (VA) medical accounts.  This request would not require increased appropriations. We simply ask the Budget Conference to enable Congress to fund IHS one fiscal year in advance.  “Congress, in enacting the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009, authorized advance appropriations for the VA.  Congress supported this effort in an overwhelming, bipartisan manner.  The VA and IHS are the only agencies that provide direct, federally-funded healthcare to specific populations and both agencies provide the services pursuant to longstanding federal policies.  Providing for the healthcare of our nation’s Native peoples is a critical component of our federal trust responsibility to tribes…”  They also spotlighted the consistency of this problem by pointing out: “Since 1998, the Interior Appropriation… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/alaska-delegation-pushes-for-equal-treatment-for-indian-health-service-and-va Alaska Delegation Pushes for Equal Treatment for Indian Health Service and VA 2013-11-12 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.12.13 Alaska Delegation Pushes for Equal Treatment for Indian Health Service and VA Alaskan Lawmakers Seek Forward Funding for I.H.S. Consistent with How Resources are Directed to Veterans Administration WASHINGTON, D.C. Alaska's Congressional Delegation is advocating that Congress use the same approach it does with the Veterans Administration and fund the Indian Health Service one year in advance, to avoid the recurring and needless uncertainty faced by Alaska Native health care providers and those of providers for all indigenous people. Given the fact that the IHS has received its funding on time only once in the last fifteen years, the delegation wrote a letter pressing House and Senate Budget Committee Leadership to foster an environment for future budgets that does away with this nearly annual stress on the system: Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich joined Congressman Don Young in writing: We respectfully request your support in allowing Congress to fund the Indian Health Service (IHS) on the same advance appropriations schedule that is currently used for Veteran Administration (VA) medical accounts. This request would not require increased appropriations. We simply ask the Budget Conference to enable Congress to fund IHS one fiscal year in advance. Congress, in enacting the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009, authorized advance appropriations for the VA. Congress supported this effort in an overwhelming, bipartisan manner. The VA and IHS are the only agencies that provide direct, federally-funded healthcare to specific populations and both agencies provide the services pursuant to longstanding federal policies. Providing for the healthcare of our nation's Native peoples is a critical component of our federal trust responsibility to tribes They also spotlighted the consistency of this problem by pointing out: Since 1998, the Interior Appropriations bill, which … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=360895 Congressman Young Receives Clean Bill of Health 2013-11-10 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Congressman Young Receives Clean Bill of Health f t # e Washington, D.C., November 10, 2013 Washington, D.C. - While traveling in Southeast Alaska this week during the Congressional state work period, Alaska Congressman Don Young experienced some minor chest discomfort and out of caution went for examination at the Wrangell Medical Center. After observation, he was advised to seek further diagnostic tests, which he undertook Saturday afternoon in Anchorage. Following tests, Congressman Young was given a clean bill of health and is in excellent spirits. Saturday’s tests are standard procedure for someone who has had major heart surgery, which Congressman Young underwent in 1997. Congressman Young thanks the medical personnel and staff who assisted him in both Wrangell and Anchorage for their professionalism and excellent care, and encourages anyone experiencing this kind of discomfort not to hesitate to seek medical attention. ###  f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=ea3cebb3-89c9-4e05-9a17-b3ec57a412b0 Senator Murkowski Shares Veterans Day Message with Alaskans 2013-11-10 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.10.13 Senator Murkowski Shares Veterans Day Message with Alaskans Back Home, “Veterans are Teachers, Co-workers, Police Officers and Best Friends” Washington, D.C.— Senator Lisa Murkowski offered the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: “This Veteran’s Day, I’d like to thank all of the veterans who have served our country when called upon.  The decision to enter into any military service is not one to be taken lightly, nor is it an easy burden to bear.  Standing up to serve is something to be commended, something to be respected – and something to be honored by all of us who breathe easier and live freely because of those who have defended us at home and abroad.” “Our veterans connect all Americans- in ways that many may not realize. In Alaska, we have more veterans per capita than any other state. Our veterans are teachers, co-workers, police officers, and best friends. They continue serving their communities long after they take off their uniforms. It is in this capacity that they can connect all Americans.” “We saw this most recently when hundreds of Alaskans came and saluted a group of WWII veterans on their Last Frontier Honor Flight- which made its inaugural trip to Washington, D.C. in October. I had the privilege of greeting these veterans at the send-off at Ted Stevens International Airport as they began their trip to our nation’s capital to see the memorial built to honor them and their duty. It was incredibly meaningful to share their pride and anticipation of this trip.” “I have been honored to share the stories of Alaska veterans through my monthly ‘Veteran Spotlight’ project. I am inspired as I listen to acts of sacrifice and courage and a willingness to risk everything to defend our country.” “I thank all of our veterans and their families for their selfless gift to our Nation – because the spouses and children of our military also serve.  All Americans owe you a debt of g… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/2013/11/10/senator-murkowski-shares-veterans-day-message-with-alaskans Senator Murkowski Shares Veterans Day Message with Alaskans 2013-11-10 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.10.13 Senator Murkowski Shares Veterans Day Message with Alaskans Back Home, Veterans are Teachers, Co-workers, Police Officers and Best Friends Washington, D.C. Senator Lisa Murkowski offered the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: This Veteran's Day, I'd like to thank all of the veterans who have served our country when called upon. The decision to enter into any military service is not one to be taken lightly, nor is it an easy burden to bear. Standing up to serve is something to be commended, something to be respected and something to be honored by all of us who breathe easier and live freely because of those who have defended us at home and abroad. Our veterans connect all Americans- in ways that many may not realize. In Alaska, we have more veterans per capita than any other state. Our veterans are teachers, co-workers, police officers, and best friends. They continue serving their communities long after they take off their uniforms. It is in this capacity that they can connect all Americans. We saw this most recently when hundreds of Alaskans came and saluted a group of WWII veterans on their Last Frontier Honor Flight- which made its inaugural trip to Washington, D.C. in October. I had the privilege of greeting these veterans at the send-off at Ted Stevens International Airport as they began their trip to our nation's capital to see the memorial built to honor them and their duty. It was incredibly meaningful to share their pride and anticipation of this trip. I have been honored to share the stories of Alaska veterans through my monthly Veteran Spotlight' project. I am inspired as I listen to acts of sacrifice and courage and a willingness to risk everything to defend our country. I thank all of our veterans and their families for their selfless gift to our Nation because the spouses and children of our military also serve. All Americans owe you a debt of gratitude for the s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=360834 Congressman Young Honors Our Veterans 2013-11-08 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – Today Alaskan Congressman Don Young (U.S. Army 1955-1957) released the following statement commemorating Veterans Day: share: f t Washington, D.C. – Today Alaskan Congressman Don Young (U.S. Army 1955-1957) released the following statement commemorating Veterans Day: "On Monday, the 11th day of November, we honor the sacrifice and commitment of our nation’s servicemen and women. Without their service, courage, and willingness to lay their lives on the line, the United States would not be the great nation we call home today.”  “In Alaska, where more than 20,000 active duty servicemen and women and over 77,000 veterans call home, it’s critically important that we take a moment to reflect on those who defend the freedoms we know here at home and sometimes take for granted. I encourage every Alaskan to take a moment out of their busy schedule this weekend to offer their sincerest gratitude to our veterans.  “I want to personally thank each and every veteran for their service to this great nation. I am eternally grateful for the commitments you’ve made and the sacrifices you’ve faced. May God bless you and your families.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=3ac80d31-eb24-4070-8d4a-1ba6a470eb5c Murkowski: Health Care Law’s Full-Time Definition is “Out of Step,” Risking Work Hour Cuts 2013-11-08 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.08.13 Murkowski: Health Care Law’s Full-Time Definition is “Out of Step,” Risking Work Hour Cuts Senator Continues to Fight Widespread Negative Impacts of Law, Joins Bipartisan Push to Advance Forty Hours is Full Time Act WASHINGTON, D.C. – With the health care law’s employer mandate causing cuts to work hours nationwide, Senator Lisa Murkowski and a bipartisan group of Senators is urging the Budget Conference Committee to take up the Forty Hours is Full Time Act (S. 1188) she co-sponsored earlier this year. This bill aims to redefine the use of “full-time” employee in the health care law since the law presently considers that a “full-time employee” works a mere 30 hours, which could lead to dramatic decreases in take-home pay for Americans nationwide, especially in crucial Alaskan economic drivers like restaurants, hotels and retail. In a letter (attached), Murkowski asserts that effective health care reform “should expand access to coverage, while not inhibiting economic growth.” Later, she expresses concern that “the PPACA definition of full time as an employee working just 30 hours a week is out-of-step with standard employment practices in the U.S. today and will hurt the economy and likely cut hours for current full-time employees.” The Forty Hours is Full Time Act would change the PPACA’s definition of “full time employee” to 40 hours a week and would make a matching adjustment in the monthly hours used to calculate “full time equivalent” employee. After speaking with many small business owners in Alaska who had to cut hours due to new taxes, Murkowski implored the conference members take up this bill to add this sensible definition to the PPACA. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=ea19e6d4-d52a-4dd2-9b4c-fe94d19fe957 “I Hope the Lord Took all of Our Men Up There for Defending the Freedoms of Our People” 2013-11-08 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.08.13 “I Hope the Lord Took all of Our Men Up There for Defending the Freedoms of Our People” Murkowski Honors Iconic Kenai Korea Veteran WASHINGTON, DC – As the United States commemorates Veterans Day weekend, Senator Lisa Murkowski is releasing her 18th Veteran Spotlight interview, focusing on the service of Kenai resident Herb Stettler who served in the U.S. Army and did a 13 month tour during the Korean War.  Stettler is an active member of the Kenai Peninsula veteran community, supporting fellow veterans and honoring veteran sacrifice at local events and ceremonies – and has fostered a special bond with his neighbors for years that was reciprocated when they rallied to his aid last year. During his interview, Stettler recalls being 18 years old when he was asked to register for the draft.  At 20, he enlisted in the Army and his superior officers capitalized on his farm-honed strength making him a machine gun operator.  During his Korean War tour, Stettler says there were some “hairy times” and he was often called upon to provide machine gun cover for his fellow soldiers to escape enemy fire. Herb Stettler, U.S. Army veteran. (Click on image for excerpt of Herb talking about one of his proudest moments of his Korean War deployment. CLICK HERE for the extended interview)   “I hope that the Lord took all of our men up there for defending the freedoms of our people,” Said Herb Stettler.  “For those of us who made it home, we are there for each other.  It’s a camaraderie thing with your fellow veterans.  You’ve got something in common.  You don’t talk about it much- you’re mostly talking about day to day stuff, but you are there to support each other.” Stettler was awarded the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge for his service.  After he got out of the Army, Stettler made his way to Alaska, eventually settling on the Kenai Peninsula.  Today, at 82 years old, he is an active officer for … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/i-hope-the-lord-took-all-of-our-men-up-there-for-defending-the-freedoms-of-our-people I Hope the Lord Took all of Our Men Up There for Defending the Freedoms of Our People 2013-11-08 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.08.13 I Hope the Lord Took all of Our Men Up There for Defending the Freedoms of Our People Murkowski Honors Iconic Kenai Korea Veteran WASHINGTON, DC As the United States commemorates Veterans Day weekend, Senator Lisa Murkowski is releasing her 18th Veteran Spotlight interview, focusing on the service of Kenai resident Herb Stettler who served in the U.S. Army and did a 13 month tour during the Korean War. Stettler is an active member of the Kenai Peninsula veteran community, supporting fellow veterans and honoring veteran sacrifice at local events and ceremonies and has fostered a special bond with his neighbors for years that was reciprocated when they rallied to his aid last year. During his interview, Stettler recalls being 18 years old when he was asked to register for the draft. At 20, he enlisted in the Army and his superior officers capitalized on his farm-honed strength making him a machine gun operator. During his Korean War tour, Stettler says there were some hairy times and he was often called upon to provide machine gun cover for his fellow soldiers to escape enemy fire. Herb Stettler, U.S. Army veteran. (Click on image for excerpt of Herb talking about one of his proudest moments of his Korean War deployment. CLICK HERE for the extended interview) I hope that the Lord took all of our men up there for defending the freedoms of our people, Said Herb Stettler. For those of us who made it home, we are there for each other. It's a camaraderie thing with your fellow veterans. You've got something in common. You don't talk about it much- you're mostly talking about day to day stuff, but you are there to support each other. Stettler was awarded the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge for his service. After he got out of the Army, Stettler made his way to Alaska, eventually settling on the Kenai Peninsula. Today, at 82 years old, he is an active officer for the Veterans of Fore… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-health-care-laws-full-time-definition-is-out-of-step-risking-work-hour-cuts Murkowski: Health Care Laws Full-Time Definition is Out of Step, Risking Work Hour Cuts 2013-11-08 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.08.13 Murkowski: Health Care Law's Full-Time Definition is Out of Step, Risking Work Hour Cuts Senator Continues to Fight Widespread Negative Impacts of Law, Joins Bipartisan Push to Advance Forty Hours is Full Time Act WASHINGTON, D.C. With the health care law's employer mandate causing cuts to work hours nationwide, Senator Lisa Murkowski and a bipartisan group of Senators is urging the Budget Conference Committee to take up the Forty Hours is Full Time Act (S. 1188) she co-sponsored earlier this year. This bill aims to redefine the use of full-time employee in the health care law since the law presently considers that a full-time employee works a mere 30 hours, which could lead to dramatic decreases in take-home pay for Americans nationwide, especially in crucial Alaskan economic drivers like restaurants, hotels and retail. In a letter (attached), Murkowski asserts that effective health care reform should expand access to coverage, while not inhibiting economic growth. Later, she expresses concern that the PPACA definition of full time as an employee working just 30 hours a week is out-of-step with standard employment practices in the U.S. today and will hurt the economy and likely cut hours for current full-time employees. The Forty Hours is Full Time Act would change the PPACA's definition of full time employee to 40 hours a week and would make a matching adjustment in the monthly hours used to calculate full time equivalent employee. After speaking with many small business owners in Alaska who had to cut hours due to new taxes, Murkowski implored the conference members take up this bill to add this sensible definition to the PPACA. Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=fcfcaaf7-f7e1-49e4-8816-911364dd9fd8 Murkowski Votes to Protect Alaskans From Discrimination 2013-11-07 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.07.13 Murkowski Votes to Protect Alaskans From Discrimination Senator: Judge Workers on Merits, Performance WASHINGTON, DC — Senator Lisa Murkowski today cast her vote in support of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), a bill that protects Alaskans from discrimination.  Murkowski also supported an amendment to the bill protecting religious freedom in implementation of the law.  Moments ago, the legislation passed the Senate by a count of 64-32. On the floor of the Senate, Murkowski expressed the view that employees should be judged solely on the basis of ability or skill: (Murkowski makes argument for ENDA: “No discrimination” – 11/6 – Click image for excerpt.)  “Current law protects against discrimination in the workplace for many classes of individuals. Many of us have been involved in working to refine these laws that protect against discrimination affecting employment practices not on the basis of one's merits or qualifications but on the sole basis of factors unrelated to an individual's work experience, such as race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, and sex or gender. “We have made sure to put protections in place against discrimination in the workplace for these classes, these categories of individuals. But for those in the LGBT community for whom discrimination on the basis of sex does not apply, ENDA bridges that gap.  “It is time that that gap is resolved.  In fact, the separation that has been in place would be eliminated. Discrimination should never be accepted in any workplace or anywhere for that matter. It's just pretty simple -- just no discrimination. I am a strong, strong believer that individuals should be judged on their merits and not how they look or how they are perceived to be.” ABOUT ENDA: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 currently protect employees from unlawful employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex and na… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-votes-to-protect-alaskans-from-discrimination Murkowski Votes to Protect Alaskans From Discrimination 2013-11-07 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.07.13 Murkowski Votes to Protect Alaskans From Discrimination Senator: Judge Workers on Merits, Performance WASHINGTON, DC Senator Lisa Murkowski today cast her vote in support of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), a bill that protects Alaskans from discrimination. Murkowski also supported an amendment to the bill protecting religious freedom in implementation of the law. Moments ago, the legislation passed the Senate by a count of 64-32. On the floor of the Senate, Murkowski expressed the view that employees should be judged solely on the basis of ability or skill: (Murkowski makes argument for ENDA: No discrimination 11/6 Click image for excerpt.) Current lawprotects against discriminationin the workplace for manyclasses of individuals.Many of us have been involved inworking to refine these lawsthat protect againstdiscrimination affectingemployment practices not on thebasis of one's merits orqualifications but on the solebasis of factors unrelated to anindividual's work experience,such as race, ethnicity,national origin, religion, age,disability, and sex or gender. We have made sure toput protections in place against discrimination inthe workplace for these classes,these categories of individuals.But for those in the LGBT community forwhom discrimination on the basisof sex does not apply, ENDA bridges thatgap. It is time that that gapis resolved. In fact, the separation thathas been in place would be eliminated.Discrimination should never be accepted in any workplace or anywhere for thatmatter.It's just pretty simple -- justno discrimination.I am a strong, strong believerthat individuals should bejudged on their merits and nothow they look or how they areperceived to be. ABOUT ENDA: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 currently protect employees from unlawful employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex and national origin. The Employment Non-Discriminatio… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=abcaa37b-045a-43ce-b090-d28baf05f35d Murkowski Backs “If You Like Your Health Plan, You Can Keep It” Act 2013-11-06 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.06.13 Murkowski Backs “If You Like Your Health Plan, You Can Keep It” Act Senator Co-Sponsors Legislation to Deliver on Broken Promise WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Lisa Murkowski today announced her co-sponsorship of S.1617, the If You Like Your Health Plan You Can Keep It Act of 2013, amid rising reports of thousands of Alaskans’ inability to continue on with their current health care plan as President Obama had promised during the campaign to pass the legislation. “'Keep your health care plan if you like it’ was one of the key claims that President Obama used to force this flawed law through Congress, and now over 5,000 Alaskans have seen this promise broken in the first month of its rollout,” said Senator Murkowski.  “Americans deserve honesty.  Nancy Pelosi said we had to pass this bill to find out what was in it, and it turns out to be a work of fiction.  That’s not fair to Alaskans who are anxious and uncertain about their coverage and that of their families.” The legislation will amend the Affordable Care Act to allow Americans to hold onto the health insurance plans they are satisfied with, and not force them to discontinue their plans and enter the health care exchange.  Last week, a key health care exchange provider, Enroll Alaska, announced they were indefinitely suspending their operations due to widespread problems with the system that included its subsidy calculator. Senator Murkowski is joined on this bill by the sponsor Ron Johnson (WI) and Senators Lamar Alexander (TN), Kelly Ayotte (NH), John Barrasso (WY), Richard Burr (NC), Roy Blunt (MO), John Boozman (AR), Saxby Chambliss (GA), Daniel Coats (IN), Thomas Coburn (OK), Thad Cochran (MS), Susan Collins (ME), Bob Corker (TN), John Cornyn (TX), Michael Crapo (ID), Michael Enzi (WY), Deb Fischer (NE), Jeff Flake (AZ), Lindsey Graham (SC), Charles Grassley (IA), Orrin Hatch (UT), Dean Heller (NV), John Hoeven (ND), James Inhofe (OK), John Isa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=f3a35dd7-8116-4256-bf59-0283583fc14d Murkowski: “Words Aren’t Solving the Problem” of Military Sexual Assault 2013-11-06 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.06.13 Murkowski: “Words Aren’t Solving the Problem” of Military Sexual Assault Senator Joins Major Bipartisan Push to Pass Military Justice Improvement Act WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Lisa Murkowski today joined a bipartisan coalition of her colleagues to kick off a final two week push to create an independent, objective and non-biased military justice system – through the Military Justice Improvement Act – as the Senate is expected to debate the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) before Thanksgiving. The legislation that Murkowski co-sponsored in May would eliminate many obstacles that numerous victims of military sexual assault have described in deciding whether to report the crimes committed against them due to the bias and inherent conflicts of interest posed by the military chain of command's current sole decision-making power.  At a press conference earlier today, Murkowski was joined by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rand Paul (R-KY), Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) discussing how the problem has been acknowledged publicly by the Pentagon brass for decades, but no hard solutions have been enacted or created that provide a better environment for victims – this bill would take the decision out of the hands of the Commanding Officer and allow an independent Judge Advocate General to determine whether a court case should proceed.   (Senator Murkowski cites need for Military Justice Improvement Act – Click image to view)   In discussing the acknowledgements of military officials on the topic, Murkowski said: “There is a notion that somehow or other our military has addressed this issue because they are saying the right words.  Because they have said there is a ‘Commitment to Zero Tolerance’ here.  I have heard it and all my colleagues have heard it from every General who has chosen to visit in the last six months.  “They say ‘We’ve had our eyes ope… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-backs-if-you-like-your-health-plan-you-can-keep-it-act Murkowski Backs If You Like Your Health Plan, You Can Keep It Act 2013-11-06 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.06.13 Murkowski Backs If You Like Your Health Plan, You Can Keep It Act Senator Co-Sponsors Legislation to Deliver on Broken Promise WASHINGTON, D.C.Senator Lisa Murkowski today announced her co-sponsorship of S.1617, the If You Like Your Health Plan You Can Keep It Act of 2013, amid rising reports of thousands of Alaskans' inability to continue on with their current health care plan as President Obama had promised during the campaign to pass the legislation. 'Keep your health care plan if you like it' was one of the key claims that President Obama used to force this flawed law through Congress, and now over 5,000 Alaskans have seen this promise broken in the first month of its rollout, said Senator Murkowski. Americans deserve honesty. Nancy Pelosi said we had to pass this bill to find out what was in it, and it turns out to be a work of fiction. That's not fair to Alaskans who are anxious and uncertain about their coverage and that of their families. The legislation will amend the Affordable Care Act to allow Americans to hold onto the health insurance plans they are satisfied with, and not force them to discontinue their plans and enter the health care exchange. Last week, a key health care exchange provider, Enroll Alaska, announced they were indefinitely suspending their operations due to widespread problems with the system that included its subsidy calculator. Senator Murkowski is joined on this bill by the sponsor Ron Johnson (WI) and Senators Lamar Alexander (TN), Kelly Ayotte (NH), John Barrasso (WY), Richard Burr (NC), Roy Blunt (MO), John Boozman (AR), Saxby Chambliss (GA), Daniel Coats (IN), Thomas Coburn (OK), Thad Cochran (MS), Susan Collins (ME), Bob Corker (TN), John Cornyn (TX), Michael Crapo (ID), Michael Enzi (WY), Deb Fischer (NE), Jeff Flake (AZ), Lindsey Graham (SC), Charles Grassley (IA), Orrin Hatch (UT), Dean Heller (NV), John Hoeven (ND), James Inhofe (OK), John Isakson (GA), … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-words-arent-solving-the-problem-of-military-sexual-assault Murkowski: Words Arent Solving the Problem of Military Sexual Assault 2013-11-06 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.06.13 Murkowski: Words Aren't Solving the Problem of Military Sexual Assault Senator Joins Major Bipartisan Push to Pass Military Justice Improvement Act WASHINGTON, D.C.Senator Lisa Murkowski today joined a bipartisan coalition of her colleagues to kick off a final two week push to create an independent, objective and non-biased military justice system through the Military Justice Improvement Act as the Senate is expected to debate the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) before Thanksgiving. The legislation that Murkowski co-sponsored in May would eliminate many obstacles that numerous victims of military sexual assault have described in deciding whether to report the crimes committed against them due to the bias and inherent conflicts of interest posed by the military chain of command's current sole decision-making power. At a press conference earlier today, Murkowski was joined by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rand Paul (R-KY), Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) discussing how the problem has been acknowledged publicly by the Pentagon brass for decades, but no hard solutions have been enacted or created that provide a better environment for victims this bill would take the decision out of the hands of the Commanding Officer and allow an independent Judge Advocate General to determine whether a court case should proceed. (Senator Murkowski cites need for Military Justice Improvement Act Click image to view) In discussing the acknowledgements of military officials on the topic, Murkowski said: There is a notion that somehow or other our military has addressed this issue because they are saying the right words. Because they have said there is a Commitment to Zero Tolerance' here. I have heard it and all my colleagues have heard it from every General who has chosen to visit in the last six months. They say We've had our eyes opened wide.' Well, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://donyoung.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=360367 Representative Young Announces Public Schedule for Week of November 4th 2013-11-05 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Don Young Y000033 donyoung.house.gov     legacy Alaskan Congressman Don Young today announced he will visit Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg this week to meet with members of the community. share: f t Alaskan Congressman Don Young today announced the following public events during his travels to Southeast Alaska this week. Ketchikan Wednesday, November 6, 2013  12:00 p.m – Congressman Young will speak to the Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce -- Media Availability to Follow Location: Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce - 111 Stedman St, Ketchikan, AK Wrangell Thursday, November 7, 2013  3:00 p.m – Congressman Young will host a constituent “Meet and Greet” regarding current issues with the federal government -- Media Availability to Follow Location: Address: Nolan Civic Center, 296 Campbell Drive, Wrangell, AK Petersburg Friday, November 8, 2013  3:00 p.m – Congressman Young will participate in a community meeting sponsored by the Petersburg Chamber of Commerce -- Media Availability to Follow Location: Assembly Chambers, Petersburg, AK   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=0cc5ae7a-dd44-424e-823d-ee2552ffea66 Murkowski: Health Care Cost Increases Aren’t Statistics, They Are Alaskans 2013-11-05 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.05.13 Murkowski: Health Care Cost Increases Aren’t Statistics, They Are Alaskans Letters from Fairbanks, Anchorage, Petersburg, Valdez and Others Read on Floor WASHINGTON, D.C.—On the heels of her Committee Hearing exchange with the CMS Administrator earlier, Senator Lisa Murkowski today took the stories of everyday Alaskans with her to the floor of the United States Senate, in order to have more time to fully share their concerns and frustrations at the rollout of the health care exchanges in Alaska – both in terms of technical glitches and sticker shock at the dramatic rise in premiums. At the opening of her speech, Senator Murkowski recounted the questions she raised to the CMS Administrator earlier – focusing on website glitches and rising anxieties – before turning towards the authentic voices of Alaskans who have looked into the heath care law and been surprised at the higher costs they are finding.  Senator Murkowski shared the stories of: A Fairbanks family who runs a knife and tool shop expecting to see a 60% leap in their premium. A woman over 55 years old who expects to see a $1,500 monthly premium, who wrote “This is more than our mortgage. This is like a second mortgage.” An Anchorage woman worried about a 23% increase in her monthly premium. A 25 year old non-smoker from Petersburg whose monthly charges are rising from $102 to $281. A 41 year old Valdez man who says his estimated premium increase is 85 percent.   (Senator Lisa Murkowski shares Alaskans’ letters with her Senate colleagues – click image to view excerpt.  Click here for entire speech.)   When Senator Murkowski concluded her summary of the interaction she has had with Alaskans, she told her colleagues on the Senate floor, “We go through these stories … These stories are people that I represent.” … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=b4072c6a-5837-4595-a786-95a06c2ad035 Murkowski: “Who’s On The Hook” For Health Care Law Failures? 2013-11-05 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.05.13 Murkowski: “Who’s On The Hook” For Health Care Law Failures? Senator Vents Alaskan Frustrations, Anxieties With Administration Witness WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Lisa Murkowski today grilled the Administrator for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services over myriad failures and problems being experienced with Alaska’s health care exchange in a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee for Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Murkowski’s frustrations focused on: (AK exchange officials telling Murkowski “Stop.  It’s not working.” Click image for excerpt.)   “I had a meeting a few days ago with the navigators who are trying to facilitate these exchanges including Enroll Alaska that has been set up specifically for this process.  These are all folks that want this to work.  What I heard from them was ‘Stop.  It’s not working.’  As of the 29th of October, Enroll Alaska confirmed that there were three Alaskans who had successfully enrolled.  There is nobody else who has stepped forward to say they successfully enrolled in the exchange from Alaska… One of the things that was troubling in that meeting was to hear that the three people who have enrolled have been given incorrect information.”   (9pm-1am window doesn’t work for Alaska.  “The sun does not rise and set over Washington, DC.” Click image for excerpt.)   “Unlike what some might believe here, the sun does not rise and set over Washington, DC or in Eastern Standard Time. So when a family finishes up dinner, does the dishes and puts the kids to bed in Alaska, 9pm is 1am. At the time period when Alaskans can sit and move through any aspect of this exchange, you’re shutdown.  When will this site be available for all Americans to take a look at?”   (If things fail for Alaskans on January 1st, “Who is on the hook?” – Click image for excerpt.)   “If we’re in this situation where we have a concern with the subsidy calculator, we may h… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-health-care-cost-increases-arent-statistics-they-are-alaskans Murkowski: Health Care Cost Increases Arent Statistics, They Are Alaskans 2013-11-05 2013 2013-11 Republican House AK Lisa Murkowski M001153 www.murkowski.senate.gov     legacy 11.05.13 Murkowski: Health Care Cost Increases Aren't Statistics, They Are Alaskans Letters from Fairbanks, Anchorage, Petersburg, Valdez and Others Read on Floor WASHINGTON, D.C.On the heels of her Committee Hearing exchange with the CMS Administrator earlier, Senator Lisa Murkowski today took the stories of everyday Alaskans with her to the floor of the United States Senate, in order to have more time to fully share their concerns and frustrations at the rollout of the health care exchanges in Alaska both in terms of technical glitches and sticker shock at the dramatic rise in premiums. At the opening of her speech, Senator Murkowski recounted the questions she raised to the CMS Administrator earlier focusing on website glitches and rising anxieties before turning towards the authentic voices of Alaskans who have looked into the heath care law and been surprised at the higher costs they are finding. Senator Murkowski shared the stories of: A Fairbanks family who runs a knife and tool shop expecting to see a 60% leap in their premium. A woman over 55 years old who expects to see a $1,500 monthly premium, who wrote This is more than our mortgage. This is like a second mortgage. An Anchorage woman worried about a 23% increase in her monthly premium. A 25 year old non-smoker from Petersburg whose monthly charges are rising from $102 to $281. A 41 year old Valdez man who says his estimated premium increase is 85 percent. (Senator Lisa Murkowski shares Alaskans' letters with her Senate colleagues click image to view excerpt. Click here for entire speech.) When Senator Murkowski concluded her summary of the interaction she has had with Alaskans, she told her colleagues on the Senate floor, We go through these stories Thesestories are people that I represent. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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