Alaska Lawmakers reject Governor’s Executive Order creating Agriculture Department
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Alaska lawmakers on Saturday refused to accept an executive order from Governor Mike Dunleavy that sought to establish a state agriculture department, igniting a potential legal dispute between teh legislative and executive branches.
governor Dunleavy had proposed splitting the existing Division of Agriculture, currently part of the Department of Natural Resources, into a new cabinet-level department. He introduced this executive order as lawmakers convened for a special session, with the creation of the department being one of two agenda items.
However, the legislature rejected the order. Senate President Gary Stevens, a Republican from kodiak, and House Speaker Bryce Edgmon, an Independent from Dillingham, communicated their decision to the governor in a letter. They stated that both state law and the Constitution do not permit the governor to introduce an executive order during a special session. This stance is partly due to the legislature narrowly voting down a similar order earlier this year.
“We’re encouraging the governor to introduce it again in January and deal with it properly,” Stevens commented.
Legislators are also considering bills that would formally establish an agriculture department.
In a letter addressed to legislative leaders, Governor Dunleavy challenged the Legislature’s refusal to consider his order. he asserted that the Constitution and state law do not restrict executive orders to regular sessions. He indicated his intention to proceed with creating the department unless lawmakers voted to disapprove the order.
“Unless the Legislature convenes in joint session to disapprove the Executive Order as required by section 23 (of the Alaska Constitution), I will consider it to have become law at the close of the special session and proceed accordingly,” the governor wrote.
7 · Compliance & Disclaimers
This article does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding their specific situation.
8 · Call-to-Action
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