Murkowski Morning Meeting for Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Arctic Council is “Diplomacy ahead of the curve”

Note to readers: Senator Lisa Murkowski is currently in Kiruna, Sweden, at the Arctic Council Ministerial meetings, as part of America’s delegation to represent Alaska’s and the United States’ interests. She became the first member of Congress to attend the Arctic Council in Nuuk, Greenland in 2011. As Arctic waters open up, it is crucial that the eight Arctic nations share thoughts on the emerging opportunities and challenges in the region. In the meantime, the Murkowski Morning Meeting team will continue to keep you informed of the events/discussions on Capitol Hill that matter to Alaska.

U.S. Senate Events

Natural Gas Boom Creating “Saudi America”

Alaskan Impact: Alaska has 35 trillion cubic feet of proven conventional gas reserves on the North Slope, and the potential for 200 trillion cubic feet more onshore and offshore of Alaska’s northern coast. The Energy and Natural Resources Committee today held the first of three natural gas roundtables to explore issues surrounding responsible production. The first forum focused on infrastructure, transportation, research, and innovation, including looking at ways to improve the permitting process for pipeline infrastructure like an Alaska gas pipeline project.

6:00am AKDT
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Roundtable

(Click image to watch)

Sen. Barrasso: “Saudi America” is changing the global natural gas equation.

Tough Cuts, Tough Questions

Alaskan Impact: With Arctic waters opening, it’s important that Alaska’s maritime infrastructure keep pace. Senator Murkowski attempted to address this issue in filing legislation to advance a deep draft port project in Alaska, along with other water port and harbor projects. Last week, the Coast Guard announced it would be decreasing its Arctic presence this year. Later today, the Coast Guard commandant will lay out his budget and priorities for the Senate.

10:30 AKDT
Senate Appropriations Committee Hearing
Topic: Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing on the proposed budget estimates for FY2014 for the Coast Guard.
Testimony from:

• Adm. Robert Papp Jr., Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard

Watch the entire hearing online: appropriations.senate.gov