AGP Executive Report

Juneau & Alaska Politics: A push to stop HB 195 is heating up ahead of a June 17 deadline, with opponents warning the bill would let pharmacies prescribe and sell misoprostol, raising safety concerns in remote areas. Anchorage Community: The Alaska Zoo says two adult brown bears fought unexpectedly; staff separated the animals and is monitoring one bear’s recovery. Energy & Industry: Antares Nuclear hit a major U.S. milestone by reaching criticality with its Mark-0 small modular reactor in Idaho Falls, a step toward private nuclear power. Arctic & Travel: The Faroe Islands hosted the University of the Arctic Congress and an Arctic Council-linked ocean connectivity conference, spotlighting fisheries and aquaculture as the region sees more polar travel. Military Readiness: The U.S. Army’s 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment is transitioning from cavalry reconnaissance to parachute infantry after Exercise Red Flag-Alaska 26-2. Sports: Dimond’s Jared Mateaki won Gatorade Alaska Player of the Year after an unbeaten run and a state title.

Alaska Airlines expands nonstop travel: Alaska Airlines launched its first-ever nonstop Anchorage–Boston route on June 13, using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 and running weekly through Aug. 15, cutting out the usual connection via Seattle and tapping about 43,000 round-trip passengers between the markets in the past year. Health policy fight with Alaska ties: Republican attorneys general, including Alaska’s, urged the EPA to classify the abortion medication mifepristone as a water contaminant, arguing it threatens waterways—while health experts say there’s no proof of harm. Education staffing pressure: A federal court struck down a proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee, a potential lifeline for Alaska districts that rely on international teachers, though leaders warn it may be too late for fall hiring. Global health warning: The Pan American Health Organization questioned reports of a Russian COVID-19 vaccine being negotiated without standard safety and efficacy trials. Public safety and environment: Alaska’s oil spill in Saxman was reported, and wildfire conditions remain active as heavy rain and strong winds build across the state.

Alaska LNG: The Alaska House Finance Committee voted unanimously to advance a major tax break bill for the Alaska LNG project to the House floor, moving toward a Senate path. The measure would eliminate property taxes on the proposed gas line, LNG export hub and North Slope treatment plant, replacing them with a smaller volume-based tax tied to gas flow. Tribal contracting: The Defense Department reaffirmed that federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native Corporations can participate in SBA’s 8(a) program based on their political status under federal law. SBA rule change: The SBA proposed revising 8(a) rules for individually owned firms by requiring applicants to show social disadvantage, while keeping eligibility standards for tribally owned entities and ANC-owned participants unchanged. Outdoor grants: Federally recognized tribes can now apply for Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants of up to $15 million, after Congress expanded eligibility. Wildfire: Crews battled a lightning-caused wildfire northeast of Fairbanks, with the Clums Fire reported at 244 acres by Saturday evening. Juneau-area courts: The Zarrius Hildabrand murder trial began, with prosecutors arguing murder and the defense claiming suicide. Elections: Alaska’s Division of Elections issued a preliminary ruling that a Petersburg candidate, Dan J. Sullivan, is likely ineligible for the 2026 U.S. Senate ballot.

Alaska Elections: The Alaska Division of Elections says Petersburg’s Dan Sullivan is likely ineligible to run for U.S. Senate, a preliminary move tied to complaints that a “duplicate” candidate could confuse voters. U.S. Senate Race: The dispute over “two Dan Sullivans” continues to escalate as the state weighs whether the challenger meets eligibility rules. Energy Policy: The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources advanced Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s FLOWS Act, aimed at streamlining licensing for hydropower upgrades and maintenance—an issue with real stakes for remote Alaska communities. Public Lands & History: A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore National Park exhibits and signs that were changed under an order targeting displays deemed to “disparage Americans,” calling the removals a “white-out pen.” Denali Tragedy: Denali National Park rangers recovered four deceased climbers from two separate incidents, including a fall near Denali Pass and a medical emergency on the West Buttress route. Northern Lights: NOAA forecasts a chance to see aurora activity in parts of the northern U.S., with Alaska generally having the best odds.

Arctic Housing Boost: The U.S. Coast Guard will spend $143.4 million at Base Kodiak for 30 new housing units plus a 22,000-square-foot child development center expected to serve 200+ children, with work finishing in 2028. LNG Tax Break Moves Forward: Alaska House lawmakers passed a major tax cut for the proposed trans-Alaska LNG pipeline, replacing a 2% oil-and-gas property tax with a per-unit gas tax and sending the bill to the Senate for the special session’s next steps. Ballot Fight in the U.S. Senate Race: Alaska election officials preliminarily found Dan J. Sullivan (the challenger with the same name) ineligible, citing a lack of support in the evidence reviewed, setting up a final determination. Rural Voting Reality Check: A KYUK report shows how mail voting works in tiny Platinum, where ballots must be delivered by boat or snowmachine—highlighting how logistics can shape turnout. Wildlife Enforcement: Alaska wildlife inspectors described intercepting trafficked wildlife at airports, including a major shark fin case tied to suspicious cargo. Salmon Forecast: A new global report predicts lower 2026 Pacific salmon harvests, with Alaska Bristol Bay sockeye expected to drop sharply. Local Color: Fairbanks painted two new murals on City Hall, and Anchorage’s ravens nested on a woolly mammoth display at Bass Pro Shops.

Juneau Flood Preparedness: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is stepping in to help Juneau tackle recurring glacial outburst flood risk in the Mendenhall Valley, working with the city and local partners on mitigation plans aimed at protecting homes and infrastructure. Southeast Alaska Legal Trouble: A Ketchikan man, Brandon Moran, has been charged with possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, with investigators tracing the case to tips and digital communications. Alaska Elections: Alaska’s top elections official says a U.S. Senate candidate with the same name as Sen. Dan Sullivan could be disqualified from the August primary, after complaints triggered an eligibility review. Cruise Disruptions: A Holland America Alaska sailing was delayed after propulsion problems, forcing major itinerary changes and port cancellations. Community Notes: Seldovia’s burn permit suspension remains in effect, and Pier One Youth Theatre is running a Seldovia Drama Camp for ages 10–17 this summer. Arts & Culture: A major circumpolar Indigenous art exhibition opened at the National Gallery of Canada, featuring Alaska and other northern artists.

Juneau Public Safety: Juneau Police are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash on North Douglas Highway that killed an 89-year-old woman; the 62-year-old driver was also injured. Alaska LNG Watch: In Juneau, lawmakers are moving closer to passing a bill that would cut taxes tied to the proposed Alaska LNG project, with negotiations continuing after House Finance advanced the measure. Arctic Security Cutters: The U.S. Coast Guard says two new Arctic Security Cutters will be homeported in Kodiak and a third in Seward once infrastructure is ready—an effort aimed at boosting Arctic operations. State Politics: Alaska’s Division of Elections issued a preliminary decision saying Dan J. Sullivan of Petersburg is not eligible to run for U.S. Senate, citing concerns about the race and shared names. Wildfire Update: Crews report the Kopshesut Fire is at 50% containment near completion, while the Yenlo Fire is nearing final suppression work. State Parks: Alaska State Parks is preparing to switch reservation systems, with Reserve America bookings ending Dec. 31 and a new online system launching Oct. 1.

Arctic Spill Response: Alaska regulators confirmed the Jan. 5 grounding of the fishing vessel Arctic Sea released about 45,000 gallons of diesel near the Pribilofs; crews plugged a tank vent and standpipe and are planning further removal and salvage. Bycatch Research: University of Alaska Fairbanks scientists are using Chinook tagging data to help trawl fleets avoid depths and areas where salmon risk becoming bycatch, including impacts from Gulf of Alaska naval exercises. Fisheries Management: The North Pacific Fishery Management Council advanced a preferred Tanner crab conservation area near Kodiak’s Barnabas Gully, aiming to reduce groundfish impacts by favoring closure to nonpelagic trawling. Cruise Disruption: Holland America’s Zaandam is delayed out of Vancouver after propulsion repairs; the June 10 Alaska itinerary was adjusted and passengers received compensation. Coast Guard Icebreaker Plan: Two new icebreakers are set for Kodiak and a third for Seward once infrastructure is ready, with the Coast Guard accelerating preparations. Juneau Community: Auke Recreation Area near Juneau hosted a multi-day canoe Journey with dozens of pullers and traditional landing protocols.

Alaska LNG Push: The Alaska House Finance Committee voted 11-0 to advance HB 381, a major property-tax break bill aimed at making the Alaska LNG pipeline project financeable, with the bill now headed to the full House and facing a tougher Senate path. U.S. Senate Race Fallout: In Alaska’s 2026 U.S. Senate race, challenger Dan J. Sullivan says state officials can’t legally keep him off the ballot as Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom investigates allegations of voter confusion and possible coordination. Juneau & Local Governance: The Anchorage Assembly delayed a revived public safety commission vote after pushback, setting up a public hearing next month. Wildlife & Land: Sitnasuak Native Corp. took ownership of 14 miles along the Nome River for long-term conservation and subsistence access, while crews in the Chilkat Valley continue invasive plant removal. Health & Work Rules: CMS moved forward with Medicaid work requirements under a new federal framework, setting an 80-hour monthly requirement for many adults unless they qualify for exemptions. Aviation & Climate Tech: Alaska Airlines is set to use drop-in jet fuel from captured CO2 at a new commercial plant in Moses Lake, part of a push for lower lifecycle emissions.

Immigration Enforcement: The House narrowly passed a nearly $70 billion Homeland Security package that funds ICE and Border Patrol through September 2029, sending it to President Trump for signature and boosting his deportation agenda. Air Travel: Alaska Airlines is bringing back nonstop service from Paine Field to Portland, starting Wednesday, with daily flights and more connection options via PDX. Alaska Economy & Work: Alaska’s minimum wage rises to $14 on July 1, with paid sick leave rules tied to employer size. Courts & Airlines: A 9th Circuit panel upheld dismissal of former Alaska state Sen. Lora Reinbold’s lawsuit against Alaska Airlines over a COVID-era mask ban. Public Safety & Service: Thirteen Alaska National Guard members are activating to support Washington, D.C.’s Freedom 250 events with traffic control, security patrols, and public safety. Denali Tragedy: A Denali National Park mountaineering ranger died after falling into a crevasse during a climbing patrol; the incident remains under investigation. Local Sports: Homer High School baseball won a state championship award after a comeback in the title game.

Elections Watch: Alaska’s lieutenant governor opened an investigation into a U.S. Senate candidate named Dan J. Sullivan, alleging his filing may be meant to confuse voters and potentially trigger perjury concerns. Public Safety: Troopers and the Alaska Bureau of Investigation are probing the suspicious death of 39-year-old Derek Berry of Soldotna, whose remains were found after he’d been reported missing in May. Campaign Finance: A new report says Sen. Dan Sullivan has spent more than $1.5 million on luxury lodging and meals, with most spending outside Alaska. Wildfire Update: Crews are making progress on the Kopshesut Fire near Ambler, with containment now at 40 percent. Health & Community: Blood Bank of Alaska is urging donations as supplies tighten ahead of the FIFA World Cup, and “Yoga in the Park” returns in Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Immigration Enforcement Funding: The House cleared a key procedural step for a nearly $70 billion package to fund ICE, Border Patrol and Homeland Security through the rest of Trump’s term, with final action expected soon. Alaska Elections: Alaska Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom opened an investigation into a U.S. Senate candidate, Daniel James Sullivan Jr., after allegations he may be running to confuse voters because he shares a name with incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan. Juneau Public Safety: Juneau police are asking for help locating 29-year-old Dion McCabe, missing since June 5; last seen May 26 at a Safeway. Rural Health Money: Alaska health officials say more than 200 groups are in the running for $272 million in Rural Health Transformation funding, with a narrowed list of just over 400 proposals moving toward final decisions. Energy & Costs: Gas prices eased in Denali Borough, where midgrade hit a low of $5.44 per gallon in the week ending May 30. Connectivity for Remote Areas: Integrity Technologies and World Mobile announced a collaboration aimed at expanding rural and tribal connectivity nationwide.

Juneau Assembly Budget & Flood Funding: The Juneau Assembly approved next year’s city budget, including service reductions and facility closures, while also approving glacial outburst flood mitigation funding. The package keeps pools, Dimond Park Field House, the Douglas Fire Station, and social service grants, but cuts the Juneau-Douglas City Museum—leading to layoffs, reduced hours, and public pushback. Elections Watch (Southeast): Alaska Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom opened an investigation into Daniel James Sullivan Jr.’s U.S. Senate challenge, citing concerns about whether the filing could mislead voters due to the shared name with incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan. Alaska Economy & Energy: Lawmakers and Alaska’s Sen. Lisa Murkowski weighed in as a federal court struck down a proposed $100,000 H-1B fee, arguing it would worsen staffing shortages in rural Alaska. Mining Update: PolarX reported more “hyper-grade” copper at its Caribou Dome project and is moving into a 10,000-meter 2026 drill program. Sports: Juneau-Douglas won the Division I state baseball title, beating Service 5-4 in the final.

Alaska LNG push in the Interior: Fairbanks-area leaders and lawmakers rallied in support of building the Alaska LNG pipeline, arguing it’s the practical fix for soaring Fairbanks power costs and diesel-driven bills, with GVEA saying gas supply could let it convert equipment if the pipeline delivers. Juneau cost of winter fun: Eaglecrest Ski Area’s board approved about a 10% jump in season and day pass prices for next season, plus a new 3% credit card fee starting in July. Alaska energy transparency: The 9th Circuit ruled Alaska can make ConocoPhillips oil well data public from the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, overturning a lower-court confidentiality decision. Legislature momentum: Lawmakers sent more than 70 bills toward Gov. Mike Dunleavy after a late-session flurry, including new safeguards for minors’ psychiatric care. Aviation safety: The FAA proposed a $165,000 fine for Alaska Airlines over alleged intoxicated-passenger incidents on flights from 2024-2025. Local economy pressure: Anchorage bar closures cited rising insurance, rent, and supplies. Arctic weather gap: Researchers propose low-cost, locally run sensors to improve polar forecasts that communities across Alaska rely on.

Immigration Enforcement: The U.S. Senate voted early Friday to fund immigration enforcement agencies for the rest of Trump’s term, passing a roughly $70 billion bill 52-47 along party lines; Sen. Lisa Murkowski joined Democrats in opposing it, and the measure still needs House approval. Alaska Travel & Costs: A report on April airport traffic shows passenger declines tied to higher fuel costs and TSA staffing issues, while Alaska Airlines faces broader summer fare pressure as airlines respond to fuel shocks. Alaska Economy Snapshot: Alaska collected $4.6 million in public utilities sales taxes in 2024, up from the prior year, according to Census Bureau state tax data. Southeast Sports: Juneau-Douglas won the Division I state baseball title, beating Service 5-4 in Anchorage. Public Safety: Alaska State Troopers say a Palmer man missing after a Little Willow Creek boat capsizing was found dead. Letters & Policy: Anchorage readers urged lawmakers to investigate the Trump administration’s firing of NSF board members and the decommissioning of ocean monitoring instruments off Alaska. Earthquake Watch: A 7.8 quake near the Philippines triggered tsunami advisories for parts of the region, with no threat to Alaska reported.

Alaska LNG Fight: Glenfarne released updated Alaska LNG cost estimates, putting the full project at $44.5B to $54.5B and pushing lawmakers to decide in a fast-moving special session. Gas Price Protection: The pipeline developer also floated a plan to cap the natural gas price for Alaskans if the project runs over budget, aiming to reduce sticker-shock for Southcentral households. Public Scrutiny: Critics say Glenfarne “doesn’t need tax breaks” and warn the state still lacks meaningful financial disclosure before lawmakers make a deal. Interior Power Concerns: A letter raises alarm over a proposed mega data center at Eielson AFB, arguing local power capacity and permafrost risks could be severe. Local Land Use: Anchorage’s Assembly is set to consider natural burial projects in South Anchorage, including a wooded, low-cost cemetery proposal near Potter Marsh. Native Gaming Update: Tlingit & Haida opened Two Coppers Casino as federal review continues to reshape Alaska tribal gaming rules. Aurora Forecast: Northern lights could be visible farther south as geomagnetic storms build. Juneau Sports: Juneau won the D1 state final 5-4 over Service, capping a big weekend for local athletics.