From an American Resources perspective, Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell’s speech was particularly interesting, as it emphasized the importance of mineral resources as a foundation for the economic and strategic well-being of Alaska, and the nation as a whole.  Stressing that “Alaska’s resources can lead to America’s energy independence,” the governor also called for fostering “a climate that cultivates investment in Alaska’s other natural resources,” a point he had spelled out in more detail in his budget address.

A key to doing so, as we have frequently pointed out, is taking on onerous permitting processes, which the governor’s budget seeks to do head first, with the goal to “provide more timely decision making for mining, timber, public access, land sales and transfers, and other resource development applications.”