Rep. Mary Peltola addresses Alaska State Legislature

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - Representative Mary Peltola addressed a joint session of the Alaska legislature on Friday, February 17.

Alaska’s sole delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives, Peltola was sworn in for her first full term in January.

She started by congratulating the legislature on its ability to cross party lines on many issues.

The representative then discussed millions of dollars that have been secured for Alaska’s infrastructure and defense.

Peltola highlighted her support for the Willow Project in the northern part of the state. She stressed that Governor Mike Dunleavy, as well as Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski have also indicated their support for the project.

Peltola discussed some of her hopes for the state going forward.

“Will we invest in our youngest and care for our oldest? Will we fund a public workforce that encourages people to live, stay, and retire in Alaska? Will we build an internet system that brings telehealth, vocational training, and human connection to all Alaskans? Will we fortify our grid and build a diverse, renewable economy that lowers energy prices? I hope the answer is yes,” asked Peltola.

Calling on her constituents to let the Biden administration know their thoughts on Willow, Peltola says she plans to meet with the president about the project.

Meanwhile, Peltola acknowledged the need for more use of renewable resources in the state, saying, “Make no mistake, we must reckon with the impacts of fossil fuels. Every year, Alaskans see our ice melting. We suffer through choking summer wildfires. We watch as our houses sink into thawing permafrost. We are on the front lines of this battle, and we must invest in a renewable future. In that future, we continue to lead in the energy sector as we cultivate our wealth of renewable energy resources.”

Peltola’s event comes 10 days after Senator Dan Sullivan addressed the legislature on February 7.

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