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Senate committee backs resolution urging protection of ANC participation in SBA 8(a) program
Summary
The Senate Resources Committee unanimously moved House Joint Resolution 44 (companion to SJR 26) from committee, sending a bipartisan message supporting Alaska Native Corporations and tribal entities’ participation in the federal SBA 8(a) business development program and warning lawmakers against proposals that would weaken participation.
Representative Maxine Divert told the Senate Resources Committee on Wednesday that House Joint Resolution 44 reaffirms Alaska’s support for Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) and tribal entities participating in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 8(a) business development program. “This program has been one of the most effective tools for creating economic opportunities in Alaska, particularly in rural Alaska and underserved communities,” Divert said.
Nicole Borromeo, who identified herself as president of a regional association representing the 12 Alaska Native regional corporations established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), testified in support and asked the Senate to match the House’s unanimous vote. “ANCs are among the state’s most significant private-sector economic engines, directly employing thousands and supporting billions in economic activity,” Borromeo said. She told the committee that, in 2022, ANCs generated roughly $13,500,000,000 in total revenue and account for about 7% of all wages paid in Alaska (figures stated in testimony).
Supporters told the committee ANC participation in the 8(a) program feeds dividends, scholarships, elder benefits and other community investments, and said ANC contractors also supply services to federal agencies, notably defense and homeland security. Divert and Borromeo warned that recent proposals in Washington could reduce ANC access to the program with negative consequences for jobs and community investment in rural Alaska.
Senator Wilikowski moved to report House Joint Resolution 44 from committee with individual recommendations and an attached zero fiscal note, authorizing legislative staff to make technical and conforming changes; Chair Senator Giesel heard no objections and announced the resolution moves from committee with a zero fiscal note.
The committee did not take additional testimony beyond the invited proponents and did not record a rollcall vote; the chair announced there were no objections to reporting the resolution. The measure will proceed in the legislative process as transmitted by committee.
