Full Press Release
News from the Alaska State Legislature, the Office of Senator Rauscher
For Immediate Release: April 20, 2025
Senate Republicans Disappointed by Ag Dept. Vote Failure
Senator George Rauscher
JUNEAU – Yesterday in joint session, Executive Order 136, allowing the creation for a Department of Agriculture, was passed with a vote of 32 to 28, stalling the formation.
The Department of Agriculture would provide a reliable framework for development within Alaska’s agricultural economy by supporting local farms, ranches, horticulture, and more.
According to Senator Robb Myers (R – North Pole), “Farmers aren’t here asking us for a grant, for a subsidy, for a tax break, or for a contract.” The Senate Minority Whip continued, “Our farmers aren’t asking for money in their pockets. What they are asking for is a seat at the table.”
Prior to the vote, years of research was completed with the goal of determining the best course of action to boost our agricultural economy.
“The public doesn’t like it when we study, study, study, we have task forces, we write reports, then we put them on shelves, they collect dust, and we fail to act,” said Senator Shelley Hughes (R – Palmer). “We had two task forces on this particular subject with very specific recommendations. The number one recommendation was to create a Department of Ag.”
Local agriculture directly contributes to our state’s overall independence, food security, and health. The Senate Republican Caucus is disappointed our colleagues would allow their better judgement to be clouded by trivial factions instead of prioritizing Alaskans.
Senator Mike Shower (R – Wasilla) asked, “What is this really about?” The Minority Leader continued, “My suspicion is, the disapproval isn’t about creating a Department of Ag. This isn’t about the process or the money. What this is, is to not give the governor a win.”
Moving forward, the Senate Republican Caucus would like to see HB 140 and SB 128 – bills dedicated to creating the Department of Agriculture – pass through the legislature with strategic improvements and bipartisan support.
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