Legislature(2001 - 2002)
2002-01-16 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2002-01-16 House Journal Page 1974 HB 325 HOUSE BILL NO. 325 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act relating to civil defense and disasters; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the House Special Committee on Military and Veterans' Affairs and the State Affairs and Health, Education & Social Services Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Zero, Dept. of Health & Social Services 2. Zero, Dept. of Military & Veterans' Affairs The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 14, 2002, appears below: "Dear Speaker Porter: I am transmitting a bill relating to disasters and civil defense, which results from recommendations of the Terrorism Disaster Policy Cabinet following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It is one of six bills I am forwarding to the Legislature today to ensure Alaska is fully prepared in terrorism prevention and emergency response. This bill would authorize the governor to declare that a state of emergency exists and to exercise emergency civil defense powers in the event of a terrorist attack or a credible threat of a terrorist attack on 2002-01-16 House Journal Page 1975 the state. Presently, the governor is authorized to declare a civil defense emergency and exercise these powers only in the event of an 'actual enemy attack.' This bill also would amend the definition of 'disaster' in state law to include a terrorist or enemy attack, an outbreak of disease, or a credible threat of such an event. This would authorize the governor to declare a disaster emergency and to exercise the disaster emergency powers if any of the above events occurred and causes or threatens severe damage, injury, loss of life or property, or shortage of food, water, or fuel. Presently, such incidents are not included within the definition of 'disaster,' hampering the state's ability to respond if they occur. Finally, this bill would amend the enumerated powers of the governor in the event of a disaster emergency to include the ability to allocate or redistribute pharmaceuticals and other medicines and supplies. Presently, the governor is authorized to allocate or redistribute only food, water, fuel, or clothing in the event of a disaster emergency. It also would authorize the governor to access, inspect, and share health care and medical records as necessary to protect public health and safety in the event of a disaster emergency. Without this authority, the state is unable to effectively respond to a bioterrorist attack or an epidemic. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor"