Ballot Measure 1 bad for Alaskans' access to legislators

The League of Women Voters of Juneau encourages all registered voters in Alaska to go to the polls on Aug. 24 and vote NO on Ballot Measure 1. Contrary to the basic rights of an American citizen, Ballot Measure 1 would interfere with Alaskans' ability to communicate with their legislators or to get involved with a political campaign.

Information about the ballot can be found in the currently circulating State of Alaska Primary Election Ballot Measures Pamphlet. We encourage all people to read carefully what is at stake.

If passed, local nonprofit social service organizations or local governments, such as the City and Borough of Juneau, would not be allowed to discuss their needs or advocate on behalf of their constituents with their legislators. To do so would prevent them from receiving any state funding. The measure would even affect the family members of private contractors doing business with the state.

If Ballot Measure 1 passed, Alaska taxpayers will have to pay for an expensive court challenge. We encourage citizens to Vote NO on Ballot Measure 1 on Aug. 24 so protection of our freedom of speech will continue.

Thank you.

Carolyn V. Brown

Juneau

Brown is President of the League of Women Voters of Juneau