On April 22, in a joint session of the House and Senate, the attempt to override the governor’s veto of House Bill 69 was defeated — 33 to 27 — that is seven votes short of the required 40. I voted no on the override. And let me be clear: I didn’t make that choice lightly. But it’s time someone said the quiet part out loud.
Let’s not pretend. Almost everyone in this building — myself included — is ready to raise the BSA. Every legislator has a different idea of what that number should be, and what reforms should come with it. We debated, we held committee hearings, we took testimony, and we shaped a bill through the proper process.
Why did it fail? Because, for many, the mission was never policy or funding — it was politics.
I’m done with their games.
It’s time to govern like grown-ups. That means being honest about how we pay for things. It means accountability. It means doing the work on policy changes when necessary, and yes — it means compromise.
Last year, I took the hard vote to override the governor on a different education funding bill (Senate Bill 140). That vote failed by a single vote. Everyone should have learned from that experience. Instead, we got worse. WORSE.
While this circus played out in Juneau, our KPBSD school board members were back home, making brutal decisions just to keep schools afloat. They deserve better. You deserve better.
To our teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, theater techs, cafeteria staff, coaches, counselors — and so many others — I see you. I know the vote this week was devastating. This fight has drained your energy, manipulated your emotions, and left you feeling forgotten. You continue to feel the sting of a legislature who are too wrapped up in optics to deliver results.
I haven’t given up. And neither should you.
It’s time.
Time for the Governor.
Time for the House.
Time for the Senate.
To get to yes.
Enough with the blame. Enough with the performances. Let’s do the hard work of governing. Alaska’s future depends on it.
Please reach out to my office with any questions, comments, or concerns you may have by emailing Rep.Justin.Ruffridge@akleg.gov or calling 907-465-2693.
