Most Alaska lawmakers have already left Juneau, but the special legislative session remains technically active until August 19. On Saturday, legislators overrode two of Governor Mike Dunleavy’s vetoes and passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 101 to allow an extended break.
The Alaska Constitution forbids recesses longer than three days without approval from both chambers. Representative Will Stapp of Fairbanks opposed the resolution and immediately filed for a re-vote, which would ordinarily occur the next day.
However, the reconsideration becomes irrelevant since lawmakers are not scheduled to reconvene until August 19. Republican minority members, including Stapp, wanted lawmakers to stay in session and discuss the governor’s proposed education changes.
Governor Dunleavy introduced three new education-related bills on Saturday during a press conference. These include tribal education compacting, teacher bonuses, and education tax credits. All were sent to committees.
Leaders from the House and Senate majorities have no plans to act on Dunleavy’s timeline. Instead, they’ll consider education policy through a task force meeting on August 25. If lawmakers had formally adjourned the session on Saturday, Dunleavy could have immediately summoned them back into another special session.
Passing SCR 101 keeps the session open without allowing further gubernatorial interference. Special sessions last up to 30 days unless lawmakers end them earlier. By delaying their next meeting until August 19, the Legislature avoids triggering another session call from the governor.
