Legislature(2023 - 2024)
2024-02-21 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2024-02-21 Senate Journal Page 1692 SB 255 SENATE BILL NO. 255 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to the obstruction of airports and runways; relating to the obstruction of highways; establishing the crime of obstruction of free passage in public places; relating to the obstruction of public places; relating to the crime of trespassing; relating to the obstruction of navigable waters; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation and Judiciary Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Public Safety 2024-02-21 Senate Journal Page 1693 Governor's transmittal letter dated February 20: Dear President Stevens: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18 of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to obstruction of access to public places. The bill increases the penalties for obstructing highways and navigable waterways, and for criminal trespass, where there is a substantial risk of physical harm or interference with emergency response. The bill expands criminal liability for obstructing airport runways. The bill also establishes a new crime of obstruction in public places. Finally, the bill creates a new civil cause of action by any person who is obstructed and provides for statutory damages in addition to compensatory and other damages. Liability extends to persons and organizations that conspire with or encourage anyone who engages in public obstruction. Alaskans have a constitutional liberty interest in freely moving about the State. This bill will protect the right to freedom of movement against infringement by increasing and expanding existing criminal prohibitions on obstructing public places and rights of way and by establishing new civil liability for obstruction of public places. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Mike Dunleavy Governor