Murkowski Morning Meeting for Wednesday, May 9, 2012

U.S. Senate Events

Alaska’s “Arctic Nation” Needs

Alaskan Impact: Whether through the Nome fuel mission in January or the recent rescue efforts of a 13-year old girl in Juneau, Alaska has a close relationship with the United States Coast Guard. USCG Commandant Admiral Robert Papp recently said America is “behind the power curve” when it comes to an Arctic plan or presence. Today the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee held a hearing at Senator Murkowski’s request to explore how best to empower this critical service.

6:00am AKDT
Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee Hearing
Topic: “Coast Guard Budget”
Testimony from:

• Coast Guard Commandant Robert Papp Jr.

Senator Murkowski Opening Comment: “Arctic Nation”

Committee Chair Sen. Landrieu: “We’ve got to get icebreakers”

Watch the entire hearing online: http://1.usa.gov/jaYAdc

House of Representatives Events

Offshore Opportunities and Schedule Concerns

Alaskan Impact: The House Natural Resources Committee takes a look this morning at President Obama’s policies on offshore oil and natural gas production. Supporters of increased domestic energy production are concerned the administration will miss a July 1 deadline to open new areas for drilling. The current five year plan offers some new leasing opportunities in Alaskan waters, but continues a ban on exploration off the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines.

6:00am AKDT
House Natural Resources Committee Hearing
Topic: “Evaluating the President’s Offshore Drilling Plan”
Testimony from:

• Tommy Beaudreau, Director of Bureau of Ocean Energy Management

Watch the entire hearing online: http://bit.ly/JukBTp

Off the Hill Events

Obesity: Alaska’s Other Epidemic

Alaskan Impact: Alaska’s obesity rates rose to nearly 66% – doubling obesity rates in the state – over the last decade. Minorities, especially Alaska Natives, are 40% more likely to be obese than their white counterparts. On the heels of a study finding 43% of Americans will be obese by 2030, a conference is occurring to focus on healthier eating habits and promote more physical activity.

3:00am AKDT
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) – Conference
Topic: “Reversing the Obesity Trend”