Murkowski Morning Meeting For Wednesday, October 7, 2015

What DC is Reading

• Wall Street Journal (Paywall): Obama’s Wishful-Thinking Syria Policy
• Politico: Iran’s Supreme Leader: No More Talks With The U.S.
• Washington Post: Aid Group Seeks Independent Probe Into U.S. Attack On Afghan Hospital

U.S. Senate Events

North Korea Threat

Alaskan Impact: Alaskans are more than aware of our state’s proximity to North Korea—especially given the rumors that the rogue nation is potentially developing nuclear-capable missiles that could reach Alaska. Senator Murkowski has continuously worked to make sure we have a robust missile radar system in Alaska in order to protect the country from any potential threats. Today the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee received testimony from national security experts on what our nation’s strategy should be regarding North Korea.

10:15a.m. AKDT

Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy Hearing

Topic: “Assessing the North Korea Threat and U.S. Policy: Strategic Patience or Effective Deterrence?”

Witnesses:

• Jay P. Leftkowitz, Partner, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
• Victor Cha, Senior Adviser and Korea chair, Center for Strategic and International Studies
• Ambassador Robert L. Gallucci, Director, John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress

Watch the entire hearing by clicking here.

Supporting Cultural Tourism

Alaskan Impact: Tourism plays a substantial role in Alaska’s economy—contributing $3.9 billion last year. Senator Murkowski is a proud co-sponsor of the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience (NATIVE) Act, which will allow Alaska Native communities and small businesses the opportunity to share their traditions and cultures with travelers from all over the world. Today the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will vote on this legislation to give cultural tourism a much-needed boost.

10:15a.m. AKDT

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Hearing

Topic: “Business Meeting to Consider S. 1579 and H.R. 487.”

Watch the entire hearing by clicking here.

U.S. House Events

Safe Skies

Alaskan Impact: The FAA just levied an unprecedented $1.9 million fine against a company for conducting unauthorized drone flights in heavily congested areas. Senator Murkowski recognizes the great potential that unmanned aircraft systems have in Alaska, but wants to make sure that regulations are in place so that they are operated safely and responsibly. Today the House Transportation Committee discussed how to ensure planes and drones can co-exist safely in our skies.

6:00a.m. AKDT

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Hearing

Topic: “Ensuring Aviation Safety in the Era of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.”

Witnesses:

• Michael G. Whitaker, Deputy Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration
• James Hubbard, Deputy Chief, State and Private Forestry, United States Forest Service
• Captain Tim Canoll, President, Air Line Pilots Association
• Rich Hanson, Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs, Academy of Model Aeronautics
• Dr. Mykel Kochenderfer, Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Watch the entire hearing by clicking here.