An executive order from Governor Mike Dunleavy aims to reorganize the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services into two separate departments – the Alaska Department of Health and the Alaska Department of Family and Community Services. According to a press release from the office of Governor Mike Dunleavy in December, the reorganization will streamline and improve the delivery of critical programs and services while creating more flexibility and responsiveness in both departments resulting in improved outcomes.
Senate President Peter Micciche explains the 106 page executive order to KSRM, “Ultimately, it saves a total of about $32 million and eliminates 139 full-time positions. I actually think one of the problems that we have is being able to peel back the layers of the onions in these huge departments because I think they have so much going on that they shift dollars around the department and it really makes it very difficult for us to get our arms around where we can make reductions. I think that part is a positive thing. This is an executive order, which I don’t like. I’m not an executive order fan. I think most Alaskans know what’s going on with the Biden Administration in executive orders. I’d rather we can process it as a bill, but I’m willing to listen and certainly willing to move in that direction. I think it’s the right approach.”
The reorganization reportedly won’t reduce programs or services to Alaskans who are currently served. According to the Governor’s office, the reorganization is intended to establish a firm foundation for each department that will lead to increased focus on services and outcomes for the Alaskans that are served.
Micciche explains if the governor has the ability to make this change without the legislature’s consent or support, “The Administration does, of course the Democrats have challenged it as being unconstitutional. I don’t know that I would go that far, but it would be much more positive and productive if we do this sort of thing together. If we support the governor and his efforts and once I get through this, from what I can see right now, it is likely the right move and I would like to formally bless that option instead of it being an executive order. A resolution supporting the executive order would be a way to support the effort, but I’m not there yet, but I think I will be.”
Members of the State Legislature have 60 days to disapprove it or it becomes law. The executive order would be effective July 1, 2021.
