Two Keller Bills Move Out of Committee

(Juneau) - Representative Wes Keller, R-Wasilla, saw two bills make progress through the State House this week.

House Bill 354 would change some oversight language regarding loans available for general aviation in Alaska under the Capstone Avionics Loan program. Current language limits access to loans to individuals and small carriers that own their aircraft, and leases are not considered. In other parts of the country, Capstone and advances in avionics have resulted in a 47 percent decrease in aircraft accidents, and 33 percent fewer fatalities.

HB 354 was passed out of the House Labor & Commerce Committee, and now heads to the House Transportation Committee.

The House L&C Committee also heard House Joint Resolution 51, which requests the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make changes to regulations governing application standards for mortgage loans. The regulations take a traditional approach to mortgages with special licensing requirements. Many properties in Alaska, such as recreational cabins, do not meet the requirements as put forth for traditional loans and must often be financed by the owner or using other less traditional means.

HJR 51 now heads to the House Floor.