An Anchorage Superior Court judge has ruled that Governor Bill Walker was within his authority when he reduced the Permanent Fund Dividend with a veto. The opposition plans to appeal.
Senator Bill Wielechowski of Anchorage challenged the governor’s cut to the annual check with two former legislators. They argued the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation was lawfully obligated to make nearly $1.4 billion from the fund’s earnings reserve available for dividends.
Arguments were heard in Anchorage Thursday by Superior Court Judge William Morse. After intense questioning, Morse sided with the state, saying Alaska’s governors hold significant authority to reduce or eliminate spending.
Attorney General Jahna Lindemuth stated the state was confident in the advice they had given the governor about using the veto.
The plaintiffs plan to appeal Judge Morse’s decision.