The experts are widely divided in their forecasts for oil prices in the new millenium. We will continue the majority commitment to our 5-year plan of reducing the budget. Our other significant task is to make sure that the gains we have already made, both by the state legislature and our congressional delegation, are maintained and strengthened. AK is not taking more than its fair share. Our congressional delegation needs the continued vocal support of Alaska's legislature and its citizens.
People outside are skeptical about our needs.
After the federal money is gone, that won't be easy. We must learn from others like the example in Oregon. Let's look at one example of how federal dollars are building Alaska infrastructure. The railroad is now upgrading its facilities at the Seward dock, an important terminus for Alaska's huge coal deposits, thanks to Senator Stevens. The railroad is also enhancing its depots in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Denali which should greatly add to our tourist experience, thanks to Senator Stevens.