Press Release Says, Legislature Completes Special Session Confirms Lieutenant Governor Campbell, Overrides Energy Money Veto

The Alaska State Senate today completed its work in the Special Session of the Legislature, voting to confirm the Governor’s line of succession, and to override a Governor’s veto.

“While I would have preferred to avoid the need for this special session, I am pleased that the Legislature took care of the important business on its agenda today,” said Senate President Gary Stevens (R-Kodiak).  “I have known General Campbell for a long time, and we look forward to working with him in his new role as Lieutenant Governor.”

The House and Senate called themselves into special session after former Governor Sarah Palin chose Lieutenant General Craig Campbell to succeed Lieutenant Governor (now Governor) Sean Parnell upon her resignation, although General Campbell had not been confirmed by the legislature, as is required by law.  By a combined vote of 55 to 4, the legislature confirmed General Campbell in the line of succession.  The vote means that General Campbell will officially take office as the State’s Lieutenant Governor. Governor Parnell was sworn in to office on July 26th.

The Senate and the House also voted to override the former Governor’s veto of $28.6 million in federal stimulus funds intended to encourage energy efficient homes and the development of alternative energy in Alaska.  The action received 45 votes, giving it the support of three-quarters of the members of both houses, the number statutorily required to override a Governor’s veto.

“With today’s votes, Alaskans will have access to federal funds that will help address energy needs across the state,” said Senator Stevens. “Alaskans, especially in rural areas of our state, have been suffering from extremely high energy costs, and we need to do all we can to encourage innovation and conservation.”