05/15/2025 03:30 PM Senate STATE AFFAIRS
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB107 | |
| SR3 | |
| HB17 | |
| HJR13 | |
| HCR6 | |
| SB160 | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 160 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 107 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SR 3 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HB 17 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HJR 13 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HCR 6 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
May 15, 2025
3:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Scott Kawasaki, Chair
Senator Jesse Bjorkman, Vice Chair
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
Senator Robert Yundt
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Bill Wielechowski
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SENATE BILL NO. 107
"An Act establishing a violation for hindering the Alaska Sunset
Commission; establishing the Alaska Sunset Commission to review,
audit, and make recommendations on discontinuation of or changes
to state entities; and relating to the powers and duties of the
Alaska Sunset Commission."
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 3
Urging the United States Congress to grant American Samoans the
ability to serve as commissioned officers in the uniformed
services of the United States and the right to vote in federal
elections.
- HEARD & HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 17
"An Act relating to retirement benefits and military service."
- HEARD & HELD
CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 13(MLV)
Urging the President of the United States to expand evacuation
efforts for applicants with approved Special Immigrant Visas,
including resumption of evacuation flights organized by the
Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts; urging the United
States Department of State to secure legal protections and
humanitarian assistance for Special Immigrant Visa applicants;
urging the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services in
the United States Department of Homeland Security to expedite
the review of applications for Special Immigrant Visas; and
requesting that the United States Secretary of State provide a
report to Congress regarding efforts to reinstate evacuation
flights for applicants with approved Special Immigrant Visas.
- HEARD & HELD
CS FOR HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 6(MLV)
Commemorating the 250th birthday of the United States Marine
Corps.
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 160
"An Act relating to the membership of the legislative council;
and relating to the membership of the Legislative Budget and
Audit Committee."
- MOVED SB 160 OUT OF COMMITTEE
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 107
SHORT TITLE: ALASKA SUNSET COMMISSION
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) HUGHES
02/19/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
02/19/25 (S) STA, FIN
03/20/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/20/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/20/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
05/01/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
05/01/25 (S) Heard & Held
05/01/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SR 3
SHORT TITLE: SAMOAN SERVICE & VOTING RIGHTS
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) WIELECHOWSKI
05/09/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
05/09/25 (S) STA
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: HB 17
SHORT TITLE: DISABLED VETERANS: RETIREMENT BENEFITS
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) RAUSCHER
01/22/25 (H) PREFILE RELEASED 1/10/25
01/22/25 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/22/25 (H) MLV, FIN
02/18/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
02/18/25 (H) Heard & Held
02/18/25 (H) MINUTE(MLV)
02/25/25 (H) MLV AT 11:15 AM BARNES 124
02/25/25 (H) Moved HB 17 Out of Committee
02/25/25 (H) MINUTE(MLV)
02/26/25 (H) MLV RPT 7DP
02/26/25 (H) DP: HALL, FIELDS, SADDLER, GRAY,
ALLARD, NELSON, EISCHEID
03/19/25 (H) FIN AT 1:30 PM ADAMS 519
03/19/25 (H) Heard & Held
03/19/25 (H) MINUTE(FIN)
04/07/25 (H) FIN AT 1:30 PM ADAMS 519
04/07/25 (H) Moved HB 17 Out of Committee
04/07/25 (H) MINUTE(FIN)
04/09/25 (H) FIN RPT 10DP 1NR
04/09/25 (H) DP: BYNUM, JOHNSON, HANNAN, ALLARD,
TOMASZEWSKI, GALVIN, JIMMIE, STAPP,
FOSTER,
04/09/25 (H) SCHRAGE
04/09/25 (H) NR: JOSEPHSON
04/28/25 (H) TRANSMITTED TO (S)
04/28/25 (H) VERSION: HB 17
04/30/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/30/25 (S) STA, FIN
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: HJR 13
SHORT TITLE: AFGHANS, SP. IMMIGRANT VISAS, ASSISTANCE
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) STAPP
03/21/25 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/21/25 (H) MLV
04/08/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
04/08/25 (H) Heard & Held
04/08/25 (H) MINUTE(MLV)
04/15/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
04/15/25 (H) -- MEETING CANCELED --
04/24/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
04/24/25 (H) -- MEETING CANCELED --
04/29/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
04/29/25 (H) Moved CSHJR 13(MLV) Out of Committee
04/29/25 (H) MINUTE(MLV)
04/30/25 (H) MLV RPT CS(MLV) NEW TITLE 4DP
04/30/25 (H) DP: HALL, GRAY, FIELDS, EISCHEID
05/07/25 (H) TRANSMITTED TO (S)
05/07/25 (H) VERSION: CSHJR 13(MLV)
05/09/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
05/09/25 (S) STA
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: HCR 6
SHORT TITLE: US MARINE CORPS 250TH BIRTHDAY
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) UNDERWOOD
04/30/25 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/30/25 (H) MLV
05/06/25 (H) MLV AT 10:15 AM BARNES 124
05/06/25 (H) Moved CSHCR 6(MLV) Out of Committee
05/06/25 (H) MINUTE(MLV)
05/07/25 (H) MLV RPT CS(MLV) NEW TITLE 7DP
05/07/25 (H) DP: GRAY, ALLARD, FIELDS, SADDLER,
HALL, NELSON, EISCHEID
05/10/25 (H) TRANSMITTED TO (S)
05/10/25 (H) VERSION: CSHCR 6(MLV)
05/12/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
05/12/25 (S) STA
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SB 160
SHORT TITLE: MEMBERS LEG COUNCIL; LEG BUDGET & AUDIT
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) SHOWER
04/09/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/09/25 (S) STA, FIN
05/01/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
05/01/25 (S) Heard & Held
05/01/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
05/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
WITNESS REGISTER
JOE HAYES, Staff
Senator Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented the summary of changes version H
to version T for SB 107.
MAXINE LABERGE, Staff
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Introduced SR 3.
TAIVALEOAANA 'SEVEN' TOLEAFOA, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SR 3.
CHARLES ALAILIMA, Board Member
Right to Democracy
Washington D.C.
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SR 3.
TAFILISAOA TOLEAFOA, Executive Director
Pacific Community of Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SR 3.
CRAIG VALDEZ, Staff
Representative George Rauscher
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented HB 17.
AZABEL ORDAZ, Staff
Representative George Rauscher
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided the sectional analysis for HB 17.
MARK WHISENHUNT, representing self
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on HB 17.
AUSTIN FLAVIN, representing self
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 17.
MELINDA VOIGT, Deputy Director
Division of Retirement and Benefits (DRB)
Department of Administration
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions on HB 17.
REPRESENTATIVE WILL STAPP
District 32
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of HJR 13.
HENRY THOMPSON, Staff
Representative Will Stapp
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided details on HJR 13.
REPRESENTATIVE JUBILEE UNDERWOOD
District 27
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of HCR 6.
BUDDY WHITT, Staff
Representative Jubilee Underwood
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a presentation for HCR 6.
SENATOR MIKE SHOWER, District O
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of SB 160.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:30:32 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI called the Senate State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. Present at the call to
order were Senators Gray-Jackson, Yundt and Chair Kawasaki.
Senator Bjorkman arrived thereafter.
SB 107-ALASKA SUNSET COMMISSION
3:32:06 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO.
107 "An Act establishing a violation for hindering the Alaska
Sunset Commission; establishing the Alaska Sunset Commission to
review, audit, and make recommendations on discontinuation of or
changes to state entities; and relating to the powers and duties
of the Alaska Sunset Commission."
3:32:25 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI solicited a motion.
3:32:35 PM
SENATOR YUNDT moved to adopt the committee substitute (CS) for
SB 107, work order 34-LS0111\T, as the working document.
3:32:46 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI objected for purposes of discussion.
3:33:02 PM
JOE HAYES, Staff, Senator Scott Kawasaki, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, presented the summary of changes
version H to version T for SB 107 and read the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Summary of Changes CS SB 107 (SSTA) 34 LS-0111\T
This committee substitute makes two changes:
Page 4, Lines 7-14
• Provides that the governor may only remove a member
of the Sunset Commission for cause and establishing a
process for doing so. This provision is found on
Page 5, Lines 13-17
• Adds tax credits to the list of programs the
Commission shall review and prepare recommendations as
to whether they should be discontinued or changed.
3:33:47 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI removed his objection; found no further objection
and CSSB 107 was adopted as the working document.
3:34:07 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 107; finding none,
he kept public testimony open.
3:34:21 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 107 in committee.
3:34:29 PM
At ease.
SR 3-SAMOAN SERVICE & VOTING RIGHTS
3:35:00 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 3 Urging the United
States Congress to grant American Samoans the ability to serve
as commissioned officers in the uniformed services of the United
States and the right to vote in federal elections.
3:35:38 PM
MAXINE LABERGE, Staff, Senator Bill Wielechowski, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced SR 3 on behalf of the
sponsor and read the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Senate Resolution 3 urges the United States Congress
to grant American Samoans the ability to serve as
commissioned officers in the uniformed services of the
United States and the right to vote in federal
elections.
This issue was brought to Senator Wielechowski
recently by several members of the community. Our
office has been working with these stakeholders to
bring this resolution to the Senate.
American Samoa has been an unincorporated territory of
the United States since 1900. It is the only inhabited
territory of the U.S whose residents are considered
nationals but are not citizens. American Samoans can
obtain a United States passport as well as live and
work anywhere in the United States, yet they cannot
vote in federal elections or hold certain positions in
the service.
3:36:56 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced invited testimony and opened public
testimony on SR 3.
3:37:23 PM
TAIVALEOAANA 'SEVEN' TOLEAFOA, representing self, Anchorage,
Alaska, testified by invitation on SR 3 highlighted that the
military acronym LDRSHIPloyalty, duty, respect, selfless
service, honor, integrity, and personal courageas guiding
principles for non-commissioned officers. He noted that American
Samoa recently celebrated 125 years of loyalty and service to
the United States, despite economic hardship and limited
opportunities. Many American Samoans joined the military to
provide for families and proudly serve the nation. However, he
emphasized the injustice that American Samoans, who serve and
sacrifice for the U.S., are denied the right to vote. He urged
fair treatment and equal voting rights for American Samoans,
invoking a quote about self-determination: "If we are not at the
table for discussion, we will be on the menu.".
3:41:36 PM
CHARLES ALAILIMA, Board Member, Right to Democracy, Washington
D.C., testified in support of SR 3 referenced the U.S.
Constitution and the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause, noting
that people born under U.S. sovereignty should have birthright
citizenship. He recounted that in 1900 and 1904, Samoan chiefs
voluntarily ceded sovereignty of their islands to the United
States, with the understanding that U.S. law would hold supreme
authority while respecting Samoan traditions. However, efforts
in the 1920s to recognize American Samoans as U.S. citizens
failed in Congress due to racial prejudice. He said since then,
American Samoans have been classified only as U.S. nationals,
not citizens, despite generations of loyalty and military
service. This has caused widespread confusion across federal and
state agencies, including the military and passport system. He
argued that this unequal status violates the principle that all
are created equal, urging recognition of citizenship for
American Samoans under the 14th Amendment.
3:48:13 PM
TAFILISAOA TOLEAFOA, Executive Director, Pacific Community of
Alaska, Anchorage, Alaska, testified by invitation on SR 3
stated that American Samoans continue to serve in the military
and contribute to their communities, and those who have
sacrificed for the country deserve a voice and the right to
vote.
CHAIR KAWASAKI kept public testimony open for SR 3.
3:49:43 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SR 3 in committee.
HB 17-DISABLED VETERANS: RETIREMENT BENEFITS
3:49:50 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of HOUSE BILL NO. 17
"An Act relating to retirement benefits and military service."
3:50:21 PM
CRAIG VALDEZ, Staff, Representative George Rauscher, Alaska
State Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, presented HB 17 on behalf of
the sponsor and stated that it reintroduces last session's House
Bill 232, was reported out by House Military Veterans' Affairs
and House Finance committees but reached the Rules Committee too
late for House floor. HB 17 supports a small group of Alaska
veterans rated as totally and permanently disabled due to
service-connected conditions. HB 17 allows them to access earned
Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement benefits
regardless of age after at least five years of credited service,
including purchased military time. HB 17 does not create new
benefits or change health eligibility rulesit simply removes
barriers so eligible disabled veterans can retire with dignity.
The Department of Administration identified four known eligible
individuals, with up to 48 potentially qualifying.
3:52:40 PM
AZABEL ORDAZ, Staff, Representative George Rauscher, Alaska
State Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided the sectional
analysis for HB 17:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Sectional Analysis
ver A, 3.3.25
Section 1: AS 39.35.370(a)
This section amends AS 39.35.370(a) to add additional
language related to eligibility requirements when a
terminated employee is eligible for a normal
retirement benefit. Specifically adding new
subsections, A and B to section 1, lines 7 through 10.
Section 2:
Repeals three statutes.
3:53:32 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced invited testimony and opened public
testimony on HB 17.
3:53:47 PM
MARK WHISENHUNT, representing self, Palmer, Alaska, testified by
invitation on HB 17 and paraphrased the following written
testimony:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Disabled veterans often face challenges like limited
employment opportunities, difficulties in accessing
quality healthcare, and higher rates of mental health
issues such as PTSD. The transition to civilian life
can be particularly challenging. Some service members
find themselves contributing to their communities
through state and local government roles. As they make
the transition from active duty to civilian life,
veterans often downplay the physical or emotional
impact of their service. However, it's important to
recognize that, for some, these impacts simply cannot
be ignored.
There is a class of veterans who are totally and
permanently disabled, and they can face even greater
struggles to work and keep gainful employment due to
their service-connected disabilities. As such, this
class of veteran often struggles with income
stability.
I am one of those veterans who is now permanently
disabled. Through the years not only have I personally
experienced these challenges, but I have watched many
those I served with face similar obstacles. I recently
realized that something can be done to help, and that
you all have the power and ability to make a
difference.
HB 17 can serve a crucial role in addressing the
unique needs of disabled veterans in state and local
government service. Your support in advocating for and
ensuring the implementation of this legislation
emphasizes our unwavering support to those who have
devoted their lives to serving our country and our
communities with pride and distinction.
HB 17 provides a means for totally and permanently
disabled veterans to access the retirement benefits
they earned through their state and local service, at
a time when they need it the most. It offers vital
support and truly serves as a lifeline for disabled
veterans as they navigate the financial, physical, and
emotional challenges associated with their service-
connected disabilities.
Inaction on this matter would not only run counter to
our shared values but would also be a disservice to
those who have given so much for our nation, our
state, and our local communities.
Less than four percent of all veterans have been
deemed totally and permanently disabled by the
Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veterans Affairs
(VA) authored a study in 2019, on the mortality rate
of 100 percent Service Connected disabled Veterans.
The study revealed that this small group U.S. Veterans
have a significantly diminished life expectancy when
compared to the U.S. civilian population. Women
veterans of this group have a 22 percent reduced life
expectancy and men have an 11 percent reduced life
expectancy. So, what does that mean? It means that
our disabled Veterans are dying, on average, 15 years
sooner than their civilian counterparts.
3:55:13 PM
MR. WHISENHUNT continued with his testimony of HB 17:
So how many totally and permanently disabled veterans
currently have a PERS account? The retirement division
does not collect that data but knowing the make-up of
our state we can get an estimation. The estimation is
derived by looking at the number of applicable members
in the program (13,338). Then you multiply that by the
percent of residents who are veterans (10 percent).
Finally, you multiply that by the percent of veterans
who are totally and permanently disabled (3.6
percent). After doing so, one can estimate the number
of totally and permanently disabled veterans with a
PERS account to be approximately 48 people.
It is my believe that allowing approximately 48
disabled veterans, who have a significantly reduced
life expectancy, to access their hard-earned
retirement funds will in no way cause an undue
hardship to the PERS system.
In conclusion, I humbly ask each of you to stand
united and vote in favor of HB 17. Remember, it is
less than four percent of all veterans that have a
designation of totally and permanently disabled, yet
this modest change is very impactful in supporting
their well-being.
3:56:12 PM
AUSTIN FLAVIN, representing self, Palmer, Alaska, testified in
support of HB 17 and stated that as a lifelong Alaskan and Navy
veteran who served from 20042010 with a combat deployment to
Ramadi, Iraq. He developed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) from service-related exposures and has paid about $30,000
into PERS but can only receive credit for five years of military
service despite a six-year enlistment. He noted that veterans
often have shorter lifespans and face difficulties accessing VA
care. He urged the committee to support HB 17 so veterans like
him can access the benefits they've earned earlier and enjoy a
better quality of life.
4:00:13 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI referenced fiscal analysis for HB 17, noting that
the last line of the second paragraph states it would create
additional unfunded liability to the PERS plan.
4:00:45 PM
MELINDA VOIGT, Deputy Director, Division of Retirement and
Benefits (DRB), Department of Administration, Juneau, Alaska,
answered questions on HB 17 and explained that the legislation,
as written, has no direct cost to claim benefits once
eligibility requirements are met. However, because the plan
[TRS/PERS indiscernible] would ultimately pay the benefits, it
could create additional unfunded liability.
4:01:36 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI noted that HB 17 adds a new benefit for
individuals who currently lack benefits, and while the fiscal
note may appear indeterminate or zero. He asked if there still
a cost to the PERS or TRS systems.
4:02:03 PM
MS. VOIGT answered yes.
4:02:11 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked how disability will be defined according to
the Veterans Administration or another legal standard.
4:02:31 PM
MR. VALDEZ replied that the question is addressed in the
Department of Administration's letter, which indicates that
disability determination would likely be based on a VA-issued
DD-214 form showing 100 percent permanent total disability.
[CHAIR KAWASAKI kept public testimony open for HB 17.]
4:03:42 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held HB 17 in committee.
HJR 13-AFGHANS, SP. IMMIGRANT VISAS, ASSISTANCE
4:03:54 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of CS FOR HOUSE JOINT
RESOLUTION NO. 13(MLV) Urging the President of the United States
to expand evacuation efforts for applicants with approved
Special Immigrant Visas, including resumption of evacuation
flights organized by the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation
Efforts; urging the United States Department of State to secure
legal protections and humanitarian assistance for Special
Immigrant Visa applicants; urging the United States Citizenship
and Immigration Services in the United States Department of
Homeland Security to expedite the review of applications for
Special Immigrant Visas; and requesting that the United States
Secretary of State provide a report to Congress regarding
efforts to reinstate evacuation flights for applicants with
approved Special Immigrant Visas.
4:04:25 PM
REPRESENTATIVE WILL STAPP, District 32, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of HJR 13 summarized the
sponsor statement as follows:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Sponsor Statement for HJR 13
(34-LS0710\G)
After the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation,
the United States launched Operation Enduring Freedom
(OEF) on October 7, 2001. The primary purpose of the
mission was to address the issue of Al-Qaeda influence
in Afghanistan. During OEF, Afghani nationals assisted
our US servicemembers as translators and interpreters
throughout their mission. The acts of these Afghani
nationals provided necessary communication and
understanding of cultural norms.
In 2006, the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program was
established as part of the Afghan Allies Protection
Act and was expanded in 2008 to include Iraqi
nationals who assisted in the same capacity in Iraq
under Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). This program
allowed those who assisted us to apply and gain
permanent US residency.
Since the botched evacuation of US forces in
Afghanistan in 2021, processing and approval of these
SIV's and the subsequent evacuation of these Afghani
nationals and their families have been delayed or
stalled. HJR 13 aims to rectify this by respectfully
urging the President of the United States to order the
US Secretary of State to resume, expand, and expedite
the processing of these SIV applications and the
evacuations of these individuals and their families.
These Afghani citizens risked their lives and the
lives of their families under Taliban rule to assist
our service members during Operation Enduring Freedom,
on the promise that their service could be repaid with
a chance at permanent US residency. We must honor our
promises as a nation and do our best to assist these
allies.
4:06:43 PM
HENRY THOMPSON, Staff, Representative Will Stapp, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided more details on HJR 13 and
explained that there are three related programs: one created in
2006 for Iraqi and Afghan interpreters, another in 2008 for
Iraqis who assisted the U.S., and a 2009 program for Afghans. He
said the Afghan program is the largest, with 143,000 visas
granted to principals and their families, though only 50,000
principal visas were authorized. He noted significant delays in
processing and relocating applicants to the United States.
4:08:04 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked whether processing delays vary by country
or are specific to the Afghan Allied Protection Act.
4:08:30 PM
REPRESENTATIVE STAPP replied that he couldn't confirm specific
processing times but emphasized that Special Immigrant Visa
applicants undergo thorough State Department vetting and must
prove their service with U.S. forces. He added that many friends
are currently trying to help their interpreters immigrate under
the program.
4:09:23 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked where communication or coordination had
broken down in the program, since it worked well previously.
4:09:37 PM
REPRESENTATIVE STAPP answered that the program faltered after
the rapid collapse of the Afghan government. Unlike Iraq, where
a phased withdrawal maintained U.S. presence, Afghanistan's
sudden fall left little time to evacuate eligible individuals.
He said bureaucratic processes couldn't adjust quickly, and the
Taliban's return to power further complicated efforts. However,
some Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) continue working to
help evacuate and resettle those individuals in the United
States.
4:10:46 PM
SENATOR YUNDT noted that many civilians who worked with the U.S.
destroyed their documents for safety when the Afghan government
collapsed and asked how those individuals can immigrate without
proof of service.
4:11:16 PM
REPRESENTATIVE STAPP replied that some interpreters sent photos
before destroying their documents and noted that many records
still exist on the U.S. side, though they can be difficult to
locate. He agreed that the loss of documents hinders efforts to
expedite evacuations.
4:11:59 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on HJR 13; finding none,
he closed public testimony.
4:12:16 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held HJR 13 in committee.
HCR 6-US MARINE CORPS 250TH BIRTHDAY
4:12:33 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of CS FOR HOUSE
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 6(MLV) Commemorating the 250th
birthday of the United States Marine Corps.
4:13:11 PM
REPRESENTATIVE JUBILEE UNDERWOOD, District 27, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of HCR 6 read the
following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Chair Kawasaki, and committee members, thank you for
the opportunity to present House Concurrent Resolution
6, a bill to honor the 250th birthday of the United
States Marine Corps, a storied institution that has
defended our nation with unparalleled courage and
sacrifice since its founding on November 10, 1775.
This resolution celebrates the Marines' enduring
legacy of service, from the earliest battles of the
American Revolution to modern conflicts across the
globe. It recognizes their role as America's
expeditionary force, always ready to answer the call,
whether on land, sea, or air. As we approach this
historic milestone, we reflect on the values of honor,
courage, and commitment that define the Corps and
inspire generations.
To capture the spirit of the Marines, allow me to
share a few words from notable figures. Eleanor
Roosevelt, after visiting Marines during World War II,
is often quoted as saying, "The Marines I have seen
around the world have the cleanest bodies, the
filthiest minds, the highest morale, and the lowest
morals of any group of animals I have ever seen. Thank
God for the United States Marine Corps!" Though some
debate the exact wording, her admiration for their
spirit is undeniable.
President Ronald Reagan, in tribute to their impact,
said, "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering
if they made a difference in the world. But, the
Marines don't have that problem." This speaks to the
profound legacy of every Marine who has served.
And from General John J. Pershing, we hear, "The
deadliest weapon in the world is a Marine and his
rifle!"a testament to the unmatched skill and resolve
of these warriors.
4:15:06 PM
REPRESENTATIVE UNDERWOOD continued with the summary for HCR 6:
House Concurrent Resolution 6 calls for statewide
commemoration of this milestone, encouraging Alaskans
to honor the Marines' contributions through
ceremonies, educational programs, and community
events. It is a chance to thank the Marines, past and
present, for their sacrifices and to reaffirm our
commitment to supporting them.
In summary, by passing this resolution, we are joining
Marines, their families, and friends throughout the
nation and the world in celebrating this historic
250th birthday milestone. We also remember those
Marines who have gone before us, who have helped shape
the nation and the Marine Corps that we have today,
many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice for our
nation's defense. Let us honor their legacy with the
same fidelity they showedSemper Fidelis, always
faithful. Thank you.
4:16:01 PM
BUDDY WHITT, Staff, Representative Jubilee Underwood, Alaska
State Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided a presentation for
HCR 6 and moved to slide 2:
[Original punctuation provided.]
The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the U.S.
military, established on November 10, 1775, tasked
with conducting amphibious and expeditionary warfare,
providing rapid-response power projection from the
sea, and serving as a versatile, elite force for
national security missions worldwide.
4:17:36 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 3, History, and discussed the
following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
In 1775, The Second Continental Congress commissioned
innkeeper and former Quaker Samuel Nicholas to raise
two battalions of Continental Marines. Tun Tavern,
managed by Robert Mullan, became the chief recruiting
location for the Marines and Robert Mullen, the
taverns manager, became the "chief Marine Recruiter"
4:18:47 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 4, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Father Of Marine Corps
Samuel Nicholas is considered the "Father of the
Marine Corps." As the first commissioned officer of
the Continental Marines, appointed on November 28,
1775, by the Second Continental Congress, he played a
pivotal role in establishing and leading the Marine
Corps during the American Revolutionary War,
organizing its initial recruitment and operations
4:19:24 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 5, and discussed the mission of the
Marine Corp:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Make Marines
•Win Battles
•Create Quality Citizens
Mission Accomplishment is the Foundation of our
reputation
4:19:52 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 6 and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Every Marine A Riflemen
• All Marines are basic riflemen first, regardless
of specialty.
• 25 percent of enlisted recruit training is
dedicated to rifle marksmanship
• TBS trains officers to be infantry platoon
commanders
• Our history is full of examples of pilots,
logisticians, & administrators assigned infantry
duties.
4:20:11 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 7, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
170,000
In 2024, The USMC has active-duty members
33,000
Personnel in reserve.
4:20:21 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 8, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
How To Observe Marine Corps Birthday
Visit the Marine Corps War Memorial
• The iconic statue, located between Arlington,
Virginia, and Washington, D.C., depicts six
Marines raising a U.S. flag on a mountaintop
during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Reach out to a Marine
• Reach out to them and remind them how you
appreciate the hard work they have done for their
country.
Get together with your old Corps buddies
• Try to organize a gathering with your fellow
Marines to catch up and collectively appreciate
your time served.
4:21:28 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 9, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
A ball and a cake cutting ceremony
So thoroughly baked into the system of the Marine
Corps that it's written into the official manual is
the cake-cutting ceremony. Done with the same respect
for tradition and order as a 21 gun salute, the cake
cutting was formalized in the Drill Manual in 1956.
4:22:06 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 10, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Musical And Events
In addition to a fancy ball and cake cutting ceremony,
many birthdays have included a variety of battle
reenactments, pageants, musical performances, and even
sporting events.
4:22:13 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 11, and discussed the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Reading of marine corps order 47
Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921, issued by
Major General John A. Lejeune on November 1, 1921, is
traditionally read at every Marine Corps Birthday Ball
as part of the formal ceremony to honor the founding
of the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775. The order,
which summarizes the history, mission, and traditions
of the Corps, was directed to be read annually on
November 10 to every command, and this practice has
been consistently incorporated into the standardized
Birthday Ball celebrations, formalized by Commandant
Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr. in 1952.
4:22:40 PM
MR. WHITT moved to slide 12, and read the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
"This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we
who are Marines today have received from those who
preceded us in the corps. With it we have also
received from them the eternal spirit which has
animated our corps from generation to generation and
has been the distinguishing mark of the Marines in
every age. So long as that spirit continues to
flourish Marines will be found equal to every
emergency in the future as they have been in the past,
and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy
successors to the long line of illustrious men who
have served as "Soldiers of the Sea" since the
founding of the Corps."
John A. Lejeune, Major General Commandant
4:23:48 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON expressed gratitude for the bravery and
dedication of the Marine Corps, noting their personal connection
through an ex-husband who served, and voiced strong support for
the resolution.
4:24:24 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked why HCR 6 does not include the Army and
Navy since these branches were established before the Marine
Corp at the Continental Congress.
4:24:50 PM
MR. WHITT replied that, while he could not speak for the
sponsor, she did instructed her staff that the resolution would
be central to the Marine Corp and that other branches of
service, if represented in the building, would do likewise.
CHAIR KAWASAKI quipped that some members may have dropped the
ball.
4:25:21 PM
SENATOR YUNDT conjectured that the focus on the Marines might
relate to the branch's 250th birthday.
4:25:31 PM
MR. WHITT opined that with the semiquincentennial, many military
branches are celebrating anniversaries as most were established
around the same time.
4:26:02 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held HCR 6 in committee.
SB 160-MEMBERS LEG COUNCIL; LEG BUDGET & AUDIT
4:26:09 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO.
160 "An Act relating to the membership of the legislative
council; and relating to the membership of the Legislative
Budget and Audit Committee."
4:26:25 PM
SENATOR MIKE SHOWER, District O, Alaska State Legislature,
Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of SB 160 explained that the measure
allows a minority in each legislative body to have
representation on the budget and legislative council, requires
the minority to be at least 25 percent of the body, ensures the
minorities voice is heard, and carries no fiscal impact.
4:27:19 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced Senator Bjorkman joined the meeting.
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced that an updated fiscal note from the
Legislative Affairs Agency, prepared by Deputy Executive
Director Sante Lesh and approved by Executive Director Jessica
Geary, was issued today at 2:30 PM. The fiscal note reports a
zero fiscal impact, noting that SB 160 adds a minority member
from each body without increasing the total number of committee
members.
4:28:14 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI solicited the will of the committee.
4:28:16 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON moved to report SB 160, work order 34-
LS0751\A, from committee with individual recommendations and
attached fiscal note(s).
4:28:33 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI found no objection and SB 160 was reported from
the Senate State Affairs Standing Committee.
4:31:27 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Kawasaki adjourned the Senate State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting at 4:31 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Public Testimony Opposing HB 17 SA.pdf |
SSTA 5/13/2025 3:30:00 PM SSTA 5/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
HB 17 |
| USAG Alaska comment on Senate Bill 188 29SEP2025.pdf |
SSTA 5/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 188 Opposition |