Overview of Senator McGuire and UAA

Senator McGuire was elected to the legislature first as a representative in 2000 and has established herself as a strong University supporter. During her campaign, she cited the University as important for the State and worthy of better funding. She spoke out in support of the University in 2002 and 2003.

In 2004, she was a sponsor of legislation that clarified the legal status of University practicum students, and she helped with the budget deal in the House. In 2004, she was also influential with members of the majority caucus on University issues.

In 2006, Representative McGuire voted against SB 141 (the new pension plan) and worked on HB475 which fixes problems with SB 141. She also voted to delay the implementation of the new pension plan. In 2007 Senator McGuire was supportive of the University. She received endorsements from United Academics and APEA/AFT.

In 2008 she helped with the capital budget and with funding for the Health Sciences Building and Sports Complex. Senator McGuire was a cosponsor for SB23 which would repeal the current defined contribution retirement plans and a cosponsor for SB33 for postsecondary scholarships. She was also a cosponsor of SB221 which establishes the Alaska Merit Scholarship program. SB221 was approved and forwarded to the Governor. Senator McGuire was endorsed by APEA in the 2010 General Election. In 2011, Senator McGuire was a member of the Senate Finance Committee which passed a budget for UA more favorable than the House or Governor’s versions. Senator McGuire has been a strong advocate for the Engineering Academy for the public schools.