JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The state of Alaska is warning that a host of government services could be delayed or halted if lawmakers fail to pass a budget before the new fiscal year starts on July 1.
Those services include Alaska’s ferry system, oversight of cruise ships in Alaska waters, early education and Head Start programs and issuance of subsistence permits.
Some agencies said they expected to maintain certain services to comply with health and safety mandates. The state said the Department of Law is looking at what money could be spent to continue “vital” state services if a budget is not passed.
Legislative leaders have said they don’t want to see a government shutdown but have yet to come to terms on a budget and plan for addressing Alaska’s deficit.