The Alaska State Legislature's Senate Finance Committee convened on April 4, 2025, to discuss several key issues, with a significant focus on financial literacy among youth in the state.

The meeting began with testimony from Ross Goble, a board member of Junior Achievement of Alaska. Goble, who identified himself as a parent and business leader from Anchorage, expressed strong support for Senate Bill 22. He emphasized the bill's potential to significantly improve the financial futures of young Alaskans.

Goble highlighted alarming statistics from a recent survey by the Alaska Department of Education, revealing that 65 percent of high school graduates in Alaska feel unprepared to manage their personal finances. He noted that this lack of financial literacy is not limited to youth; over 50 percent of adults in Alaska also face financial challenges. Goble pointed out that these issues contribute to cycles of debt and stress that affect not only individuals but also families and the broader community.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of addressing financial education as a means to empower future generations and improve overall economic stability in Alaska. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the bill, reflecting a commitment to enhancing financial literacy in the state.