1.2.6.2. Special Fund Operations $.736 billion in 2002

Most special fund revenues are associated with self-supporting activities of state agencies that are best kept track of separately from the general fund. We identified $736 milllion in the operating budget in this category.

About 2/3 of the special fund operating revenues are associated with 5 activities. The University of Alaska receives a general fund appropriation, but most of the University revenues come from tuition, dormitory and food services, various student fees, research grants, and endowments. These revenues, which amounted to $177 million, go directly to pay for University services and do not flow through the general fund. The Marine Highway System, like the University, receives an appropriation from the general fund, but most of its revenues come from passenger fares. Expenses associated with management of the Permanent Fund as well as state and teacher retirement accounts are also handled outside the general fund. The International Airport budgets are outside the general fund and supported by user fees.

There are a number of smaller state entities that generate revenues that are not run through the general fund like the Alaska Science and Technology Foundation, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), and the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA). In addition, revenues for some specific purposes such as debt retirement, fish and game management, and power cost equalization are collected in funds separate from the general fund. In some of these cases the money formerly did go into the general fund, but now it is accounted for separately.

To see how the money in each of these special funds was spent, click on the fund name.