In 2015, the name of the peak was changed during the Obama administration to reflect the traditions of Alaska Natives and preference of many Alaskans.

An infected person flew from Seattle to Anchorage earlier this month around the same time multiple flights were leaving for Southeast Alaska.

As lawmakers ascended on the Capitol for the start of the new session and 34th Legislature on Tuesday, priorities are beginning to take shape, with education, energy, and the economy drawing focus. Before the introduction of new legislation,

The first day always involves more pomp and circumstance than legislating, and this time was no exception — but senators offered some clues about the road ahead.

The Alaska House and Senate on Tuesday convened the two-year session with bipartisan majorities governing both legislative chambers. Leaders of the Democrat-dominated House and Senate majorities said their priorities include a permanent increase to education funding,

Alaska’s Department of Education claims victory in pandemic funding dispute, and will collect $17.5 million in federal reimbursements.

The Senate reelected Kodiak Republican Sen. Gary Stevens to serve as president of the Senate and leader of a bipartisan majority. Meanwhile, the Alaska House swung from a Republican-dominated majority to a bipartisan majority with the election of Dillingham independent Rep. Bryce Edgmon as speaker in a 21-19 vote.

Alaska’s 60 legislators come from all corners of the state, and convened in Juneau on Tuesday as the 34th legislative session kicked off.

Future 49, with proponents from civilian pilots to Gov. Mike Dunleavy, is primed to launch to promote Alaskan issues and its energy, economic and national security benefits to the U.S.

Money’s going to be tight, but a permanent education funding increase rather than another one-time increase is among the essential achievements needed this session, state Senate leaders said as the 34th Alaska State Legislature gaveled in Tuesday.

House and Senate leaders say a bill that increases education funding is likely to be a first priority for the Legislature this year.