Alaska legislature works to avoid government shutdown

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – The Alaska Legislature remains on pace for a statewide government shutdown as lawmakers renew discussions they hope will bridge the gap between the House and Senate.

Gov. Bill Walker said he is confident the Legislature can avert an economically catastrophic shutdown July 1.

Officials’ top priority during the special session is the state operating budget.

“At this point, I must focus solely on one issue and one issue alone, and that is the operating budget so we do not have a shutdown in this state,” said Walker, who sets the agenda for the session.

Walker said he has not...