Budget cuts pose danger to residents, officials say

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – Alaska environmental conservation officials warned lawmakers that budget cuts are increasing the dangers to residents.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation gave the warning as lawmakers work this week to finalize the budgets of various state agencies, the Juneau Empire reported Wednesday.

The department has seen its operating budget reduced from $87.9 million in 2014 to a proposal of $80.2 million for fiscal year 2019.

The department is tasked with enforcing drinking water safety, sanitation standards, food safety, and responding to oil spills.

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