Part of Alaska’s constitution - put together when they said “sure - we’ll be a state” is that the natural resources of Alaska are the property of Alaska’s citizens (the “state”). I think it is the only state that does this. The citizens own the mineral rights, logging rights, etc. In Louisiana the land owner may or may not own the mineral rights, but if he does, can sell the rights to the oil company.
Hence the $2,200 annual check, plus last year’s extra check to cover higher fuel, plus no taxes, etc.
Also - the revised tax system that Palin pushed through on the oil companies gives incentives for exploration and development, increases competition, as well as taxing the companies more. The old tax code was formed under allegations of “good old boy” graft giving BP(?) a better deal over others with allegations of kick-backs if I recall some of the articles I’ve read.
Also - the natural gas pipeline that had been considered back during the 70’s embargo (30 years ago!!) was pushed through by Palin. I’m pretty sure she didn’t hold a gun to the various private companies that have already started work on it (mainly geotechnical and environmental studies to date).
The underlying problem is that the North Slope oil field is old and playing out. The infrastructure(including the pipeline) is corroded and wearing out.