In a historic move, the Alaska Legislature vetoed 46-14 to enact the Alaska school funding override, increasing education funding. The override of Governor Mike Dunleavy’s veto marked the first time since 2002 that lawmakers overturned a sitting governor´s decision.
The override secures a permanent $700 increase in the base student allocation, the core of Alaska’s public school funding formula. Lawmakers say the change offers stability, ending the uncertainty districts faced with last-minute funding decisions in past years.
In 2023, schools only received a one-time $680 bonus after already setting their budgets. The House and Senate both passed HB57 earlier with overwhelming support, but the override required at least 40 votes to succeed.
Support came from both parties, including Republicans typically aligned with the governor. House Minority Leader Mia Costello R-Anchorage said she voted to override despite usually supporting Dunleavy’s agenda.
Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, called the vote perfect, praising the lack of debate during the override. Several lawmakers, including Representative Jeremy Bynum R-Ketchikan, emphasized their vote as constituents, not against the governor.
HB 57 also includes new education policies. It changes how charter school applications are handled, encourages limits on student cell phone use, and funds reading improvement and technical training programs.
The bill also establishes a task force to examine future education reforms. However, the funding’s future depends on the state budget and passage of Senate Bill 113, a tax-related measure tied to HB 57. Dunleavy may veto SB 113 or education funds in the budget.
Lawmakers expressed uncertainty over maintaining support for additional veto overrides. Still, many believe the school funding override sends a strong message about prioritizing education for Alaska’s students.
