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July 15, 2008 Energy Rebate Poll My thanks to all those who responded to my poll regarding the proposed energy rebate program. This rebate as well as other energy issues will soon be debated here in the capitol, and your feedback is much appreciated. About 80 of you responded. Here are the numbers:
Within your responses there were many passionate and thoughtful articulations of each position. I’d like to share some of those with you. Supporting a $1200 check to all Alaskans: “I would be for the $1200 check because while the state is prospering at the current level of oil price, most of the people are not. This would just be a sharing of the wealth.” “Everyone in Alaska should get the same amount for any fuel subsidy. $1200 will do just fine and I can spend it a lot better than you can. Alternative energy will take care of itself with high energy prices. Any state incentives should be small and aid in development. The state has no business trying to decide what form of energy I put in my car or house.” Supporting both a $600 check to residents and an investment in alternatives: “I would choose number two as the most feasible. People are expecting something now but I would sure like to see money spent on renewable energy planning and mass transit.” Supporting the proposed energy funding go towards long term solutions: “No individual check. Invest the $700 million in renewables and long term solutions. I support some relief for high energy costs in the bush, but it does not make sense to give money to all Alaskans on top of the PFD.” “Having been able to travel the world I have found those places with mass transit seem to do better than we seem to be doing especially here in Alaska. Infrastructure to move people seems to be the most pressing thing. Just think of the fuel which would be saved with a train system from Willow and Girdwood.” “Work through Power Cost Equalization and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program; especially as the summer wanes...It seems to me this would be the most effective and equitable method(s) assisting those in greatest need, whether in the city, town or village.” And some of you supported no action: “As always, I appreciate receiving your updates. My vote is for your option, 4. Do nothing. Let the free market dictate what needs to happen. My concern with the Governor's proposal is that the fuel subsidy payment will become an entitlement and can't be eliminated. The usage of fuel isn't linear.” Many of you who responded put forth great and innovative ideas for dealing with the high cost of energy in the state. I appreciate all of the responses, and know they will be helpful during the upcoming debate. Please know you are still (and always!) welcome to weigh in on the energy rebate or any issue that is on your mind. I can be reached at senator_hollis_french@legis.state.ak.us, or 269-0234. AGIA Update The AGIA hearings are largely concluded. The House is scheduled to vote early next week on whether to award the AGIA license to TransCanada, with the Senate to follow. I’ll send you a summary of what I’ve learned, and tell you which way I’m intending to vote, soon. Best,
Hollis
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![[signed] Hollis French](http://www.aksenate.org/images/signatures/16.jpg)