Alaska Legislature Votes to Accept Palin's Rejected Stimulus Funds

Former Governor Sarah Palin's rejection of almost $29 million in federal stimulus money designated for energy efficiency projects was overturned today in a special session of the Alaska State Legislature. The vote was 45-14 in favor of accepting the money. Had it not been approved, Alaska would have been the only state in the union to reject such funds.

In addition, the appointment of Craig Campbell to the position of Lt. Governor was confirmed by a vote of 55-4. Dept. of Corrections Commissioner Joe Schmidt had been previously confirmed by the legislature to fill that position, but when Palin stepped down from her position, she announced Campbell rather than Schmidt would be taking the place of Lt. Governor Sean Parnell when he ascended to the Governor's seat. This unexpected turn forced the need for the special session and a legislative vote on his confirmation at a cost to the state of over $100,000.