As the last week of the 29th Legislature dwindles, the Alaska House was split over state worker raises.
House Bill 176 would repeal state employee’s salary schedule increases who are not covered by labor contracts.
The bill was voted on 21-19 Wednesday but Majority Leader Charisse Millette gave notice of reconsideration, meaning it could be voted on again.
House and Senate budget talks have yet to finalize negotiation terms related to the salary increases.
Representative Steve Thompson said more layoffs are likely if the state does not strike the raise, potentially save $9.3 million for all branches of government.
Critics said there are other ways to address Alaska’s multi-billion dollar deficit and the state should honor its commitments.