News & Commentary

Almost two months into the 32nd Alaska Legislative Session, the state’s lawmakers have gotten off to a bumpy start in tackling all the issues facing our state. The House did not organize until Feb. 18, when a multi-party coalition formed with Rep. Louise Stutes as Speaker, allowing the chamber to begin formal legislative work. This majority coalition should prevent passage of most, if not all, detrimental legislation that we’re watching, as well as increase the chances of positive policy advancements.

Government for the people. That should be the theme of the 32nd Alaska Legislative Session. Alaska is facing too many crises that must be addressed with urgency and seriousness —the state’s dire fiscal situation, supporting Alaskans as they continue to navigate the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing systemic racism, and ensuring the public can fully participate in its democracy, from access to voting to having faith that its government is transparent.

The American Civil Liberties Union’s national board of directors unanimously passed a second resolution today calling for the impeachment of President Donald J. Trump.

The $334,700 Governor Dunleavy vetoed in retaliation for an Alaska Supreme Court decision has been restored.

The ACLU of Alaska is urging the Alaska Vaccine Allocation Advisory Committee (AVAAC) to prioritize all incarcerated people in the Phase 1b of distribution and on equal terms with other congregate settings. Department of Corrections (DOC) staff who come into close contact with incarcerated people should be concurrently prioritized.

In a final judgment, the Alaska Superior Court has ordered the state to restore $334,700 in FY21 funding to the court system by the beginning of January. Governor Michael Dunleavy attacked the courts two years in row in retaliation for an Alaska Supreme Court ruling at odds with his personal views.

Alaskans, we join our fellow Americans in the 2020 waiting game. For the first time in a century, an election fell during a global pandemic, and a remarkable number of Alaskans made new voting plans to cast our ballots. While many of us are used to watching the results roll in live on television and Twitter, this year is different.

An Anchorage Superior Court has ruled that Governor Michael Dunleavy violated the Alaska Constitution when he vetoed $334,700 from the Alaska Court System twice for a Supreme Court ruling at odds with his personal beliefs.

Alaskans will not need a witness to sign their absentee ballots for the November general election because of COVID-19, the Alaska Supreme Court decided Monday. The state will be required to count unsigned ballots and to do voter outreach regarding the change.