Gov. Dunleavy abolishes Alaska climate-change commission, removes roadblock for Knik Arm bridge

JUNEAU — Gov. Mike Dunleavy has abolished Alaska’s climate change strategy commission and has removed a procedural roadblock for several major construction projects, including the Knik Arm Crossing.

Administrative Order No. 309, issued Friday, rescinds seven orders issued by former Gov. Bill Walker, including one from Oct. 31, 2017, that established the state’s climate change strategy and the Climate Action for Alaska Leadership Team. That team drafted a climate change policy and formally submitted it to the governor’s office in September. The plan has not been implemented.

The governor’s office sent letters to the climate change team on Friday saying their work for the task force “has ended.” The state website for the team, including the draft strategy it created, has been removed. The developments were first reported by Alaska Public Media on Saturday.

“I was kind of surprised to get the letter because we had hoped that he would continue the work of this group,” said Molly McCammon, director of the Alaska Ocean Observing System and a member of the group.

Read more: https://www.adn.com/politics/2019/02/24/gov-dunleavy-abolishes-alaska-climate-change-commission-removes-roadblock-for-knik-arm-bridge/