Lawmakers continue to wrestle with a session marked by political point counterpoint. Floor sessions may soon resume in Anchorage, but the move was nearly blocked by Juneau Democrat Sam Kito who objected to adjourning yesterday’s technical session.
House Speaker Mike Chenault ruled Kito’s objection out of order, a ruling which was upheld on a 2-to-2 vote.
Kito’s play wasn’t the only reason for pause yesterday; in a legislative memo requested by another Juneau Democrat, Senator Dennis Egan, the Legislature’s legal counsel said it’s likely any actions taken in Anchorage could be subject to legal challenges since they would take place outside of the mandates of the Governor’s special session.
Walker said he won’t press the issue of meeting in Juneau, but majority members recognized it’s possible any actions on the budget which are taken in Anchorage could be legally overturned. Senate President Kevin Meyer said he’ll weigh the risks.
The Legislature may now choose to wait until the Governor’s special session ends May 27th and call their own session in Anchorage.
