Alaska starts October amid federal funding turmoil, environmental setbacks, and major policy shifts — but also with recognition for businesses driving the state’s economy. Here are the top stories shaping the 49th state today:
🏛️ Federal Shutdown Strains Alaskans
The federal government shutdown that began September 30 is already sending ripples through Alaska. While “essential” services like air traffic control, Social Security, and VA hospitals remain active, thousands of federal workers in Alaska, including employees at national parks, federal offices, and research stations, are either furloughed or working without pay. Programs that Alaskans depend on, such as food assistance, housing vouchers, and rural development grants, are facing disruptions depending on how long the impasse lasts.
🔗 ADN: Shutdown impacts in Alaska
💧EPA Cancels $280 Million in Grants to Alaska Villages
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has canceled $280 million in grants intended for Alaska Native and rural communities. These funds were earmarked for clean water systems, wastewater treatment, and environmental cleanup projects. Without them, many villages, particularly in remote areas, are left scrambling to finance infrastructure vital to public health. Tribal leaders and state officials are pressing for answers on whether the funding can be restored.
🔗 Wrangell Sentinel: EPA pulls Alaska grants
❄️ Climate Adaptation Science Center Spared from Closures
While several climate adaptation science centers across the U.S. face shutdowns, Alaska’s facility will remain open. The center plays a crucial role in researching glacial melt, permafrost thaw, and changing fish and wildlife patterns, all issues central to Alaska’s economy and way of life. Researchers say the decision highlights Alaska’s strategic importance in climate science and national security.
🔗 Alaska Public Media: Climate center remains open
⚖️ State Legal & Policy Shifts
Two recent developments are reshaping Alaska’s legal and regulatory landscape:
- Native Allotments Jurisdiction Restored: The Department of the Interior reaffirmed Alaska’s jurisdiction over Native allotment lands, strengthening state authority over land use and development.
- Regulation Repeals Upheld: The Alaska Supreme Court ruled that the state can continue repealing regulations labeled “unnecessary,” giving the executive branch greater latitude to streamline rules.
Together, these changes could significantly affect land management, resource development, and state–tribal relations.
🔗 Alaska Department of Law Press Releases
🎙️$4.5 Million Secured for Rural Public Media
Senator Dan Sullivan announced a deal with the White House delivering $4.5 million in emergency funding for 15 rural and Native public radio/TV stations. These outlets, vital for local news and emergency communication, faced severe financial strain this summer. Station managers say the funding is a lifeline for maintaining access to information in Alaska’s most remote regions.
🔗 Alaska’s News Source: Sullivan deal
🏆 Alaska Chamber Announces 2025 Premier Business Award Winners
The 2025 Premier Business Award winners are:
- Bill Bivin Small Business of the Year 🏆 Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal
- Rita Sholton Large Business of the Year 🏆 STG Inc.
- Local Chamber of the Year 🏆 Kenai Chamber of Commerce
- Alaska Chamber Advocate of the Year 🏆 Laurie Hummel
- William A. Egan Outstanding Alaskan of the Year 🏆 John MacKinnon
According to the Alaska Chamber’s Facebook post, the awards highlight the diversity of Alaska’s economy, from tourism and construction to local leadership and public service. These honorees showcase the best of Alaska’s business community. Celebrate the best with the best Oct. 9th in Girdwood at the Alaska Business Summit.
Learn more here: Alaska Business Summit
🔗 Alaska Business: Chamber winners announced
