Legislative wrap-up: what's done, what's next.

• Author: Petro, Rachael
• Position: POLITICS

As president and chief executive officer of the premiere business organization in the state of Alaska, it is my responsibility to advocate for my members and their employees, all of whom care deeply about the state's economy and its ability to offer quality, sustainable jobs for all residents, from Ketchikan to Barrow. With that in mind, the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce and our members have been hard at work over the last year.

The 27th Alaska Legislature session provided ample opportunity to advocate for pro-business policies. For example, in 2011, reforming the state's oil tax structure was a high priority again because of the unquestioned importance of the oil and gas industry to the state's economic health.

Unfortunately, the session ended without any substantive changes, which means Alaska Chamber members will be back at it again next year, hopefully with more legislators in the House and Senate who understand what drives economic growth. It is critical that we elect legislators who understand that private sector investment--not government spending--creates economic prosperity.

Many Alaskans, me included, are weary of the debate surrounding oil tax reform. Weary or not, Alaska's economic future demands continued focus on the issue. Alaska Chamber members understand that demonizing any single industry, especially one that serves as the lifeblood for our state's economy, does not serve Alaskans well.

Shift in Philosophy

It is possible that we may see a philosophical shift in the make up of the 28th Alaska Legislature. With 59 out of 60 state legislative seats up for election, now is the time for Alaskans concerned about the future of our state's economy to engage in the political process. In an effort to help voters cut through the rhetoric, the Alaska Chamber, together with the Resource Development Council, the Alaska Support Industry Alliance and Prosperity Alaska, issued the Alaska Business Report Card. The Alaska Business Report Card group believes our elected leaders must be held accountable for the decisions they make. Letter grades are provided for each legislator, as well as the governor and the House and Senate majority and minorities, for votes on issues related to creating a friendly business environment in Alaska.

Before casting your ballots in August and November please visit alaskabusinessreportcard.com to see how incumbent lawmakers fared on pro-business legislation. To be clear, this report card has nothing to do with...