The Alaska House of Representatives has encouraged the Trump and Canadian governments to refrain from intensifying their trade dispute. On Monday, the House passed a resolution condemning restrictive measures or tolls that undermine Alaska-Canada ties by a vote of 33-4.
The resolution highlights the significance of their long-standing relationship and aims to protect Alaska’s and Canada’s interconnected economies. If the Senate approves it, it will be forwarded to officials in both countries.
The call coincides with continued threats of US tariffs against Canada and Canadian authority’s retaliatory measures. British Columbia recently introduced legislation that could impose tolls on traffic between Alaska and the contiguous United States.
The resolution highlights that Alaska exports nearly $600 million in goods annually to Canada and imports over $750 million. It also highlights that at least 20,300 jobs in Alaska depend on Canadian trade.
Resolution HJR 11 has yet to be scheduled for a Senate hearing. A companion resolution written with similar language currently sits in the Senate Rules Committee. House Majority Leader Chuck Kopp, R-Anchorage, emphasizes the urgency of cooperation between the US and Canadian governments.
Representative Andi Story, D-Juneau, pointed out that Indigenous communities across the border predate the establishment of either country, reinforcing the cultural bonds between Alaska and Canada. Rep. Dan Saddler, R-Eagle River, stressed the importance of mutual respect in resolving disputes and preserving the benefits of this partnership.
Four lawmakers voted against the resolution but did not explain their positions during the House session. One dissenting voter, Rep. Bill Elam, R-Nikiski, later remarked that foreign affairs should not involve the state legislature. The trade resolution with Canada aims to reinforce economic ties.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
