Nov. 14, 2011: USUAA Student Government hosts debate on Governor Parnell's oil tax plan

Monday, Nov. 14, 12-2 p.m.
Student Union North Cafeteria

Alaska earns 90 percent of its revenue from oil taxes. This year Governor Sean Parnell has introduced a plan to the state legislature to reduce those taxes to make Alaska more competitive. Come hear the issues of the plan to be debated by Deputy Commissioner Bruce Tangeman of Alaska's Department of Revenue, representing the oil tax plan, and Alaska State House Representative Les Gara representing the opposition.

Parnell wants to reduce oil taxes in order to attract more drilling and exploration in Alaska, with officials arguing that Alaska has the highest oil production taxes in the country, forcing business outside to states like North Dakota and Texas. Opponents of the plan argue that this reduction in one of our primary revenue sources could damage Alaska's credit, hurt its savings and negatively affect Alaska's bottom line.

Following the debate there will be an opportunity for attendees to ask the representatives questions and comment on the proposed plan. The event is free and open to the public and refreshments will be served. Please join us for what we expect to be an exciting debate.