AK News Digest: 12-24-09

Alaska senators follow party lines in health care vote

12/24/09 As the U.S. Senate this morning OK'd an overhaul of the nation's health care system, Alaska's senators parted ways. Democrat Mark Begich cited Alaska-specific provisions in a bill he believes is good for the nation. Lisa Murkowski, a Republican, says it may not bring "the positive change that people were hoping for."

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Council votes in support of reduced halibut catch rates December 24, 2009.

12/24/09 December 24, 2009. Following a detailed presentation by Julianne Curry of the Petersburg Vessel Owners Association the Petersburg city council voted unanimously against Resolution #1914 asking the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) to revise how they regulate the halibut fishery.

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Firearm bill a priority for Interior lawmaker

12/24/09 A Fairbanks lawmaker has proposed the Alaska Firearms Freedom Act, which seeks to stop the federal regulation of guns and ammunition made and sold within Alaska.

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Man and woman arrested when troopers bust working meth lab

12/24/09 Alaska State Troopers dismantled a methamphetamine laboratory in downtown Talkeetna early Wednesday, according to the Alaska Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Enforcement.

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