Legislature(2025 - 2026)
2026-05-17 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2703 SENATE JOURNAL ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE THIRTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE SECOND SESSION Juneau, Alaska Sunday May 17, 2026 One Hundred Eighteenth Day Pursuant to adjournment the Senate was called to order by President Stevens at 2:13 p.m. The roll showed nineteen members present. Senator Stedman was excused from a call of the Senate. The prayer was offered by the Chaplain, Senator Rauscher. Senator Hoffman moved and asked unanimous consent the prayer be spread. Without objection, it was so ordered. Father God in Heaven, I come to you with offerings of thanksgiving, prayer and petition. Hallowed is your name above all and your kingdom has no end. Thank you for your son, who died on the cross that I may live with you eternally in heaven. I thank you for our spouses and families. I give thanks for our homes, our health, our income and our privilege to serve as legislators. Father God I recognize we cannot take a single breath without you. You are my provider. You forgive my iniquities time and time again. So, I ask for the strength and wisdom to forgive those around us in the same manor. Father God, help me to recognize my calling as an opportunity to be able make a difference, and I ask that I not 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2704 take it lightly. Yet, as we work alongside our colleagues, remind us of their need to represent their district with the same individuality and passion as we represent our own. Father God, heal the broken hearts of the foster child, give them a stable and loving environment. Provide them with hope and an answer to their prayers. I pray for the unborn child in this world. Give assurance to the recovering addict and a lighted path to those that still struggle. I pray for our children and grandchildren that they can grow and learn to become productive and giving in nature and that all parents accept their role in that. Father God, I ask that you watch over the final days of this session, keep us humble and civil. It is in Jesus’s name I pray. Amen. Senator Gray-Jackson led the Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance. Certification Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the journal for the one hundred seventeenth legislative day be approved as certified by the Secretary. Without objection, it was so ordered. The presence of Senator Stedman was noted. Messages from the House SCR 24 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House passed and returned: SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 24 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2705 concerning House Bill No. 184, relating to financing by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority for workforce housing development projects. The resolution was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. SB 104 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House passed and returned: CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 104(FIN) "An Act relating to the transfer of a title on the death of the owner; relating to the transferability of common interest community ownership interests; and providing for an effective date." The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. HB 10 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House concurred in the Senate amendment to HOUSE BILL NO. 10 am(efd add), thus adopting: SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 10(FIN) "An Act relating to the Board of Regents of the University of Alaska; and providing for an effective date." HB 184 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House concurred in the Senate amendment to CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 184(CRA) "An Act relating to financing by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority for workforce housing development projects" thus adopting: SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 184(FIN) "An Act relating to financing by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority for workforce housing development projects; relating to a mandatory exemption from municipal property taxes for certain assets of the Alaska Industrial 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2706 Development and Export Authority; and providing for an effective date by repealing the effective date of sec. 2, ch. 64, SLA 2018." (Title Change SCR 24) HB 216 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House concurred in the Senate amendment to HOUSE BILL NO. 216, thus adopting: SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 216(CRA) "An Act approving the transfer of land owned by the Alaska Railroad Corporation to the City of Whittier; and providing for an effective date." HB 314 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House concurred in the Senate amendment to HOUSE BILL NO. 314 am, thus adopting: HOUSE BILL NO. 314 am S "An Act relating to registered interior designers and interior design; relating to project costs for the construction, enlargement, or improvement of airports; extending the termination date of the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors; relating to the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors; establishing requirements for the practice of registered interior design; relating to the practice of architecture, engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, and registered interior design; relating to the scope of the certification requirements for architects, engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, and registered interior designers; relating to immunity for design professionals; relating to the cost of construction for recreation centers; relating to liens for labor or materials furnished; relating to the procurement of landscape architectural and interior design services; relating to the cost of construction of safe water and hygienic sewage disposal facilities in villages; and providing for an effective date." 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2707 Message dated May 16 was read stating the House passed and transmitted for consideration: First Reading and Reference of House Bills HB 193 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 193(FIN) am BY THE HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE, entitled: "An Act relating to minimum paid sick leave requirements; establishing a paid parental leave program; relating to employer surcharges; relating to the employment assistance and training program account; relating to unemployment benefits; relating to the collection of child support obligations; relating to employee unemployment tax credits; relating to employer contributions to unemployment; relating to the duties of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. HB 195 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 195(FIN) BY THE HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE, entitled: "An Act changing the term 'physician assistant' to 'physician associate'; relating to physician associates; relating to collaborative practice agreements for pharmacists; relating to the prescription of opioid overdose drugs; relating to the prescription and administration of drugs and devices by pharmacists; relating to reciprocity for pharmacists; amending the definition of 'practitioner'; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Finance Committee. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2708 Concur Messages SB 143 Senator Giessel moved the Senate concur in the House amendment to CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 143(CRA) "An Act relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; relating to the size of the city council in second class cities; and providing for an effective date" (page 2680). The question being: “Shall the Senate concur in the House amendment?” The roll was taken with the following result: CSSB 143(CRA) am H Shall the Senate Concur in the House Amendment(s) to CSSB 143(CRA)? Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, the Senate concurred in the House amendment, thus adopting CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 143(CRA) am H "An Act relating to ethics and budget training for school board members; relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; relating to the size of the city council in second class cities; and providing for an effective date." Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on concurrence be considered the vote on the effective date clauses. Without objection, it was so ordered. The Secretary was requested to notify the House. The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2709 HCR 19 HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 19 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning Senate Bill No. 143, relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; and relating to the size of the city council in second class cities, was before the Senate on final passage. The question being: “Shall HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 19 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning Senate Bill No. 143, relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; and relating to the size of the city council in second class cities, pass the Senate?” The roll was taken with the following result: HCR 19 Final Passage YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 19 passed the Senate, was signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House. Standing Committee Reports HB 50 The Labor and Commerce Committee considered HOUSE BILL NO. 50 "An Act relating to snow classics." Signing do pass: Senator Bjorkman, Chair; Senator Gray-Jackson. Signing no recommendation: Senators Dunbar, Yundt. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 2, zero, Department of Revenue The bill was referred to the Rules Committee. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2710 HB 217 The State Affairs Committee considered CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 217(CRA) am "An Act relating to commercial motor vehicle licensing examinations; regulating autonomous vehicles; and providing for an effective date" and recommended the adoption of the Transportation Committee Substitute offered on page 2622. Signing do not pass: Senator Bjorkman, Vice Chair; Senator Tilton. Signing do pass: Senator Gray-Jackson. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Administration The bill was referred to the Rules Committee. HB 261 The Education Committee considered CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 261(FIN) am "An Act relating to education funding; providing for an effective date by amending the effective date of secs. 10, 11, 13, and 15, ch. 5, SLA 2025; and providing for an effective date" and recommended it be replaced with SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 261(EDC) Signing do pass: Senator Tobin, Chair; Senators Kiehl, Stevens. Signing no recommendation: Senator Bjorkman. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 8, zero, Department of Education and Early Development Fiscal Note No. 9, Department of Education and Early Development Fiscal Note No. 10, Department of Education and Early Development Fiscal Note No. 11, Department of Education and Early Development Fiscal Note No. 12, Department of Education and Early Development The bill was referred to the Finance Committee. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2711 HB 388 The Finance Committee considered CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 388(FIN) "An Act relating to loans made from the bulk fuel loan account; and providing for an effective date." Signing do pass: Senators Olson, Stedman, Hoffman, Cochairs; Senators Cronk, Kiehl. Signing no recommendation: Senators Kaufman, Merrick. The following previously published fiscal information applies: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Fiscal Note No. 2, indeterminate, House Finance Committee. The bill was referred to the Rules Committee. Introduction and Reference of Senate Resolutions SCR 33 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE, Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 27, relating to medical care for major emergencies. was read the first time and held on the Secretary's desk. Consideration of the Calendar Second Reading of House Bills HB 23 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(L&C) "An Act renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2712 Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions" was read the second time. Senator Hoffman, Cochair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Finance Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2684. Without objection, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(FIN) "An Act renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to investigations and conciliation by the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions" was adopted. Senator Kawasaki offered Amendment No. 1 : Page 1, line 6: Delete "and" Page 1, line 7, following "commissions": Insert "; and providing for an effective date" Page 4, following line 19: Insert a new bill section to read: "* Sec. 13. This Act takes effect January 1, 2027." Senator Kawasaki moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Senator Cronk objected then withdrew his objection. There being no further objection, Amendment No. 1 was adopted. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(FIN)(edf add S) was read the third time. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2713 The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(FIN)(edf add S) "An Act renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to investigations and conciliation by the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 23(FIN)(efd add S) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(FIN)(edf add S) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. SCR 32 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 32 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 23, renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions, was before the Senate on final passage. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2714 The question being: "Shall SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 32 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 23, renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions, pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCR 32 Final Passage YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 32 passed the Senate and was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 25 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 25(L&C) am "An Act relating to disposable food service ware and containers provided by customers; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. Senator Bjorkman, Chair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Labor and Commerce Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2684. Without objection SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 25(L&C) was adopted. President Stevens stated SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 25(L&C) will advance to third reading on the May 18 calendar. HB 27 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) "An Act relating to medical care for major emergencies" was read the second time. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2715 Senator Gray-Jackson offered Amendment No. 1 : Page 1, line 1: Following "Act": Insert "relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development;" Following "emergencies": Insert "; and providing for an effective date" Page 1, following line 2: Insert new bill sections to read: "* Section 1. AS 14.30.360(a) is amended to read: (a) Each district in the state public school system shall be encouraged to initiate and conduct a program in health education for kindergarten through grade 12. The program should include instruction in physical health and personal safety including alcohol and drug abuse education, [CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR),] early cancer prevention and detection, dental health, family health including infant care, environmental health, the identification and prevention of child abuse, child abduction, neglect, sexual abuse, and domestic violence, and appropriate use of health services. * Sec. 2. AS 14.30 is amended by adding a new section to read: Sec. 14.30.363. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation education. The department shall adopt curricula to instruct public school students on hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The department shall determine which grade levels are required to receive instruction under this section and adopt curricula that is appropriate for each of those grade levels. A person holding a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation instructor certificate, a license or certificate to provide emergency medical services under AS 18.08.082, or a current teacher certificate issued under AS 14.20 may present the curriculum to students. A public school providing instruction to students in grades for which this curriculum has been adopted shall offer the instruction if practicable. The curricula must be based on current national, evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation." 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2716 Page 1, line 3: Delete "Section 1" Insert "Sec. 3" Renumber the following bill sections accordingly. Page 2, following line 12: Insert a new bill section to read: "* Sec. 6. Sections 1 and 2 of this Act take effect July 1, 2027." Senator Gray-Jackson moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Senator Cronk objected then withdrew his objection. There being no further objection, Amendment No. 1 was adopted. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) "An Act relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development; relating to medical care for major emergencies; and providing for an effective date" was read the third time. The question being: "Shall CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) "An Act relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development; relating to medical care for major emergencies; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSHB 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) passed the Senate. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2717 Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. SCR 33 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 27, relating to medical care for major emergencies, was before the Senate on final passage. The question being: "Shall SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 27, relating to medical care for major emergencies, pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCR 33 Final Passage YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33 passed the Senate and was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 52 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(HSS) am "An Act relating to the rights of minors undergoing evaluation or inpatient treatment at psychiatric hospitals; relating to the use of seclusion or restraint of minors at psychiatric hospitals; relating to a report published by the Department of Health; relating to inspections by the Department of Health of certain psychiatric hospitals; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. Senator Hoffman, Cochair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Finance Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2685. Without objection, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(FIN) was adopted. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2718 Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(FIN) was read the third time. The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(FIN) "An Act relating to the rights of minors undergoing evaluation or inpatient treatment at psychiatric hospitals; relating to the use of seclusion or restraint of minors at psychiatric hospitals; relating to a report published by the Department of Health; relating to inspections by the Department of Health of certain psychiatric hospitals; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 52(FIN) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(FIN) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 79 HOUSE BILL NO. 79 "An Act naming the Vic Fischer Shoup Bay State Marine Park" was read the second time. Senator Giessel, Chair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Resources Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2685. Without objection, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2719 NO. 79(RES) "An Act renaming the Institute of Social and Economic Research at the University of Alaska as the Vic Fischer Institute of Social and Economic Research; and naming the Vic Fischer Shoup Bay State Marine Park" was adopted. President Stevens stated SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 79(RES) will advance to third reading on the May 18 calendar. HB 176 HOUSE BILL NO. 176 "An Act relating to notice of new fees and fee increases from the University of Alaska; relating to billing statements from the University of Alaska; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. Senator Tobin, Chair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Education Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2193. Without objection, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) was adopted. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. Senators Kawasaki, Cronk, Wielechowski, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray- Jackson, Claman, Stevens moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as cross sponsors on the bill. Without objection, it was so ordered. SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) was read the third time. The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) "An Act relating to notice of new fees and fee increases from the University of Alaska; relating to billing statements from the University of Alaska; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2720 SCS HB 176(EDC) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 298 HOUSE BILL NO. 298 "An Act relating to the Legislative Ethics Act; relating to legislative subpoenas; relating to the jurisdiction of the office of the ombudsman; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. Senator Claman, Chair, moved and asked unanimous consent for the adoption of the Judiciary Senate Committee Substitute offered on page 2567. Without objection, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 298(JUD) was adopted. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 298(JUD) was read the third time. Senators Claman, Giessel, Stedman, Tobin, Kawasaki, Stevens moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as cross sponsors on the bill. Without objection, it was so ordered. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2721 The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 298(JUD) "An Act relating to the Legislative Ethics Act; relating to legislative subpoenas; relating to the jurisdiction of the office of the ombudsman; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS HB 298(JUD) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 298(JUD) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 363 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 363(MLV) "An Act relating to the sale of alcohol; relating to the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages by patriotic organizations; relating to club licenses; and providing for an effective date" was read the second time. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the bill be considered engrossed, advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 363(MLV) was read the third time. Senator Dunbar moved and asked unanimous consent to abstain from voting due to a conflict of interest. Objections were heard and Senator Dunbar was required to vote. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2722 The question being: "Shall CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 363(MLV) "An Act relating to the sale of alcohol; relating to the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages by patriotic organizations; relating to club licenses; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSHB 363(MLV) Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 363(MLV) passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clause(s). Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House. Third Reading of House Bills HB 133 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 133(FIN) am S "An Act establishing deadlines for the payment of contracts under the State Procurement Code; establishing deadlines for the payment of grants, contracts, and reimbursement agreements to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native organizations; relating to reports from state agencies to the legislature detailing late payments made during 2026; relating to the state financial transactions Internet website; and providing for an effective date" was read the third time. The question being: "Shall SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 133(FIN) am S "An Act establishing deadlines for the payment of contracts under the State Procurement Code; establishing deadlines for the payment of grants, contracts, and reimbursement agreements to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native organizations; relating to reports from state agencies to the legislature 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2723 detailing late payments made during 2026; relating to the state financial transactions Internet website; and providing for an effective date" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: SCS CSHB 133(FIN) am S Third Reading - Final Passage Effective Date(s) YEAS: 15 NAYS: 5 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Olson, Stedman, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski Nays: Merrick, Myers, Rauscher, Tilton, Yundt and so, SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 133(FIN) am S passed the Senate. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the vote on the passage of the bill be considered the vote on the effective date clauses. Without objection, it was so ordered and the bill was referred to the Secretary for engrossment. HB 214 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) "An Act relating to proof of financial responsibility for suspension for nonpayment of judgments" was read the third time. Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) "An Act relating to proof of financial responsibility for suspension for nonpayment of judgments" be moved to the bottom of the calendar. Without objection, it was so ordered. Second Reading of House Resolutions HJR 28 HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 28 Calling on the United States Congress to pass the Kids Online Safety Act, was read the second time. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2724 Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the resolution be advanced to third reading and placed on final passage. Without objection, it was so ordered. HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 28 was read the third time. The question being: "Shall HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 28 Calling on the United States Congress to pass the Kids Online Safety Act, pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: HJR 28 Third Reading - Final Passage YEAS: 20 NAYS: 0 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Dunbar, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Tobin, Wielechowski, Yundt and so, HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 28 passed the Senate, was signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House. Senators Claman, Gray-Jackson, Rauscher, Tilton, Stedman, Giessel, Kawasaki, Merrick, Olson, Stevens moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as cross sponsors on the resolution. Without objection, it was so ordered. Citations Honoring – Corrine and James “Jamie” Marks Senator(s) Kiehl Representative(s) Hannan, Story Honoring – Charlie Lamphear Senator(s) Rauscher, Cronk Honoring – Trooper Anthony “Tony” Beck Senator(s) Rauscher In Memoriam – Richard “Rich” Irvin Mauer Senator(s) Cronk Representative(s) Story 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2725 In Memoriam – Lonnie Rae Raulerson Representative(s) Allard Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the citations be adopted. Without objection, the citations were adopted and referred to the Secretary for transmittal. Unfinished Business HB 176 Senator Rauscher moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cross sponsor on SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) "An Act relating to notice of new fees and fee increases from the University of Alaska; relating to billing statements from the University of Alaska; and providing for an effective date." Without objection, it was so ordered. HB 27 Senator Claman moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as a cross sponsor on CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) "An Act relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development; relating to medical care for major emergencies; and providing for an effective date." Without objection, it was so ordered. HB 363 Senators Cronk, Merrick, Bjorkman, Yundt, Kawasaki, Claman moved and asked unanimous consent to be shown as cross sponsors on CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 363(MLV) "An Act relating to the sale of alcohol; relating to the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages by patriotic organizations; relating to club licenses; and providing for an effective date." Without objection, it was so ordered. Senator Dunbar moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from June 2 through June 7. Without objection, Senator Dunbar was excused. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2726 Senator Bjorkman moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate from May 23 through May 26. Without objection, Senator Bjorkman was excused. Senator Rauscher moved and asked unanimous consent to be excused from a call of the Senate May 22, through plane time, May 26. Without objection, Senator Rauscher was excused. Consideration of the Calendar (continued) HB 214 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) which had been read the third time and moved to the bottom of the calendar today, was before the Senate. Senator Bjorkman moved the bill be returned to second reading the purpose of a specific amendment, that being Amendment No. 1. Without objection, the bill was returned to second reading. Senator Bjorkman offered Amendment No. 1 : Page 1, line 1, following "Act": Insert "relating to transportation network companies and delivery network companies;" Page 1, line 2, following "judgments": Insert "; relating to insurance coverage for transportation of persons for hire; and relating to occupational accident insurance" Page 1, following line 3: Insert new bill sections to read: "* Section 1. AS 21.96 is amended by adding a new section to read: Sec. 21.96.017. Transportation and delivery network company occupational accident insurance. An insurer authorized to write commercial casualty insurance in this state may issue group or blanket occupational accident insurance required under AS 28.23.065. In this section, "group or blanket occupational accident insurance" does not include health care insurance as defined under AS 21.12.050 or workers' compensation insurance. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2727 * Sec. 2. AS 21.96.018(a) is amended to read: (a) Insurers that write automobile insurance in the state may, notwithstanding any requirement under AS 28.20, exclude any and all coverage afforded under the policy issued to an owner or operator of a personal vehicle for any loss or injury that occurs while a driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company, [OR] while a driver provides a prearranged ride, or while a courier provides delivery services. The right to exclude all coverage may apply to any coverage included in an automobile insurance policy, including (1) liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage; (2) uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage; (3) medical payments coverage; (4) comprehensive physical damage coverage; and (5) collision physical damage coverage. * Sec. 3. AS 21.96.018(b) is amended to read: (b) Nothing in this section (1) implies or requires that a personal automobile insurance policy provide coverage while a [THE DRIVER] (A) driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company; (B) driver is engaged in a prearranged ride; [OR] (C) driver otherwise uses a personal vehicle to transport passengers for compensation; or (D) courier is providing delivery services; (2) may be construed to require an insurer to use specific policy language or to refer to this section in order to exclude any and all coverage for any loss or injury that occurs while a [DRIVER] (A) driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company; [OR] (B) driver provides a prearranged ride; or (C) courier provides delivery services; or (3) precludes an insurer from providing coverage for the personal vehicle of a transportation network company driver or delivery network company courier if the insurer chooses to provide coverage by contract or endorsement. * Sec. 4. AS 21.96.018(f) is amended to read: (f) In this section, "courier," "delivery network company," "delivery network company courier," "delivery services," "digital network," "driver," "personal vehicle," "prearranged ride," 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2728 "transportation network company," and "transportation network company driver" have the meanings given in AS 28.23.180. * Sec. 5. AS 23.30.230(a) is amended to read: (a) The following persons are not covered by this chapter: (1) a part-time babysitter; (2) a cleaning person; (3) harvest help and similar part-time or transient help; (4) a person employed as a sports official on a contractual basis and who officiates only at sports events in which the players are not compensated; in this paragraph, "sports official" includes an umpire, referee, judge, scorekeeper, timekeeper, organizer, or other person who is a neutral participant in a sports event; (5) a person employed as an entertainer on a contractual basis; (6) a commercial fisherman, as defined in AS 16.05.940; (7) an individual who drives a taxicab and whose compensation and written contractual arrangement is as described in AS 23.10.055(a)(13), unless the hours worked by the individual or the areas in which the individual may work are restricted except to comply with local ordinances; (8) a participant in the Alaska temporary assistance program (AS 47.27) who is engaged in work activities required under AS 47.27.035 other than subsidized or unsubsidized work or on-the- job training; (9) a person employed as a player or coach by a professional hockey team if the person is covered under a health care insurance plan provided by the professional hockey team, the coverage is applicable to both work-related and nonwork-related injuries, and the coverage provides medical and related benefits as required under this chapter, except that coverage may not be limited to two years from the date of injury as described under AS 23.30.095(a); in this paragraph, "health care insurance" has the meaning given in AS 21.12.050; (10) a person working as a qualified real estate licensee who performs services under a written contract that provides that the person will not be treated as an employee for federal income tax or workers' compensation purposes; in this paragraph, "qualified real estate licensee" means a person who is required to be licensed under AS 08.88.161 and whose payment for services is directly related to sales or other output rather than the number of hours worked; (11) a transportation network company driver who provides a prearranged ride or is otherwise logged onto the digital network of a 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2729 transportation network company as a driver; [AND] (12) a person employed as an independent contractor; a person is an independent contractor for the purposes of this section only if the person (A) has an express contract to perform the services; (B) is free from direction and control over the means and manner of providing services, subject only to the right of the individual for whom, or entity for which, the services are provided to specify the desired results, completion schedule, or range of work hours, or to monitor the work for compliance with contract plans and specifications, or federal, state, or municipal law; (C) incurs most of the expenses for tools, labor, and other operational costs necessary to perform the services, except that materials and equipment may be supplied; (D) has an opportunity for profit and loss as a result of the services performed for the other individual or entity; (E) is free to hire and fire employees to help perform the services for the contracted work; (F) has all business, trade, or professional licenses required by federal, state, or municipal authorities for a business or individual engaging in the same type of services as the person; (G) follows federal Internal Revenue Service requirements by (i) obtaining an employer identification number, if required; (ii) filing business or self-employment tax returns for the previous tax year to report profit or income earned for the same type of services provided under the contract; or (iii) intending to file business or self-employment tax returns for the current tax year to report profit or income earned for the same type of services provided under the contract if the person's business was not operating in the previous tax year; and (H) meets at least two of the following criteria: (i) the person is responsible for the satisfactory completion of services that the person has contracted to perform and is subject to liability for a failure to complete the contracted work, or maintains liability insurance or other insurance policies necessary to protect the employees, financial interests, and customers of the person's business; (ii) the person maintains a business location or a business mailing address separate from the location of the individual for whom, or the entity for which, the services are performed; (iii) the person provides contracted services for two or more different 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2730 customers within a 12-month period or engages in any kind of business advertising, solicitation, or other marketing efforts reasonably calculated to obtain new contracts to provide similar services; and (13) a delivery network company courier who provides delivery services or is otherwise logged onto the digital network of a delivery network company under AS 28.23.080." Page 1, line 4: Delete "Section 1" Insert "Sec. 6" Renumber the following bill sections accordingly. Page 1, following line 14: Insert new bill sections to read: "* Sec. 7. AS 28.20.440 is amended by adding a new subsection to read: (m) The motor vehicle liability policy of an operator of a vehicle used or maintained for the transportation of persons for hire must contain the following coverage while the operator is transporting persons for hire: (1) primary automobile liability insurance that provides at least $1,000,000 for death, bodily injury, and property damage; (2) uninsured and underinsured motorists coverage, as required under AS 21.96.020 and this section, that provides at least $500,000 for death, bodily injury, and property damage, which may not be waived. * Sec. 8. AS 28.23.050(a) is amended to read: (a) A [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY DRIVER, OR TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company, on behalf of a [THE] driver or courier, shall maintain primary automobile insurance that (1) recognizes that (A) the driver is a transportation network company driver or otherwise uses a vehicle to transport passengers for compensation; or (B) the courier is a delivery network company courier; (2) for a transportation network company, [AND THAT] covers the driver while the driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company or while the driver is engaged in a prearranged ride; (3) for a delivery network company, covers the courier while the courier is using a motor vehicle and is providing delivery services 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2731 or is available to receive an offer immediately following completion of delivery services but is not providing delivery services. * Sec. 9. AS 28.23.050(b) is amended to read: (b) The following automobile insurance requirements shall apply while a participating [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company and is available to receive transportation requests but is not engaged in a prearranged ride, and while a courier using a motor vehicle is logged onto the digital network of a delivery network company and is available to receive an offer immediately following completion of delivery services but is not providing delivery services: (1) primary automobile liability insurance in the amount of at least $50,000 for death and bodily injury for each person, $100,000 for death and bodily injury for each incident, and $25,000 for property damage; (2) uninsured or underinsured motor vehicle coverage as required under AS 21.96.020 and AS 28.20.440; a transportation network company may not waive the coverage [; (3) THE COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SUBSECTION MAY BE SATISFIED BY (A) AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE MAINTAINED BY THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY DRIVER; (B) AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE MAINTAINED BY THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY; OR (C) ANY COMBINATION OF (A) AND (B) OF THIS PARAGRAPH]. * Sec. 10. AS 28.23.050(c) is amended to read: (c) The following automobile insurance requirements shall apply while a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver is engaged in a prearranged ride or a courier using a motor vehicle is providing delivery services: (1) primary automobile liability insurance that provides at least $1,000,000 for death, bodily injury, and property damage; (2) uninsured or underinsured motor vehicle coverage, as required under AS 21.96.020 and AS 28.20.440, that provides at least $500,000 for death, bodily injury, and property damage; a transportation network company may not waive the coverage [; (3) THE COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SUBSECTION 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2732 MAY BE SATISFIED BY (A) AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE MAINTAINED BY THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY DRIVER; (B) AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE MAINTAINED BY THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY; OR (C) A COMBINATION OF (A) AND (B) OF THIS PARAGRAPH]. * Sec. 11. AS 28.23.050(e) is amended to read: (e) Coverage under an automobile insurance policy maintained by the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company may not be dependent on a personal automobile insurer first denying a claim nor shall a personal automobile insurance policy be required first to deny a claim. * Sec. 12. AS 28.23.050(h) is amended to read: (h) A [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier shall carry proof of coverage under (b) and (c) of this section, as applicable, with the driver or courier at all times during the driver's or courier's use of a vehicle while the driver or courier is logged onto the [IN CONNECTION WITH A] digital network of a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company. In the event of an accident, a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier shall provide the insurance coverage information to the directly interested parties, automobile insurers, and investigating police officers upon request under AS 28.22.019. Upon that request, a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier shall also disclose to directly interested parties, automobile insurers, and investigating police officers whether the driver or courier was logged onto the digital network of a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company, [OR] on a prearranged ride, or providing delivery services at the time of an accident. * Sec. 13. AS 28.23.050(i) is amended to read: (i) If the insurance carrier for the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company makes a payment for a claim for physical damage to a personal vehicle that is subject to a lien, the insurance carrier shall pay the claim jointly to the owner of the personal vehicle and the primary lienholder or directly to the business repairing the personal vehicle. * Sec. 14. AS 28.23.060 is amended to read: Sec. 28.23.060. Transportation and delivery network company automobile insurance disclosures. A [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company shall disclose in writing to [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] drivers and 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2733 couriers the following before the drivers or couriers are allowed to accept a request for a prearranged ride or delivery services on the digital network of the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company: (1) the insurance coverage, including the types of coverage and the limits for each coverage, that the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company provides while the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier uses a personal vehicle in connection with a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company's digital network; (2) that the automobile insurance policy of the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier might not provide any coverage while the driver is logged onto the digital network of a transportation network company and is available to receive transportation requests, the driver [OR] is engaged in a prearranged ride, or the courier is providing delivery services, depending on the terms of the automobile insurance policy of the driver or courier; and (3) that, if the personal vehicle the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier uses to provide transportation network services or delivery services has a lien against it, using the motor vehicle for transportation network services or delivery services without physical damage coverage may violate the terms of the contract with the lienholder. * Sec. 15. AS 28.23 is amended by adding a new section to read: Sec. 28.23.065. Occupational accident insurance. (a) A company shall maintain group or blanket occupational accident insurance, issued by an insurer under AS 21.96.017, to provide coverage required under (b) of this section for an injury suffered by a driver or courier while the driver or courier is engaged in a prearranged ride or providing delivery services. (b) The occupational accident insurance policy required under this section must provide at least a combined single limit of $1,000,000 for each accident and payment of benefits that include (1) coverage for medical expenses incurred, up to at least $1,000,000, for up to 104 weeks following the injury; (2) coverage for total disability and partial disability, with payments made for up to 104 weeks following the injury that are equal to 66 percent of the driver's or courier's average weekly earnings as of the date of injury but not more than the maximum weekly compensation rate calculated under AS 23.30.175(a); however, if the average weekly earnings of the driver or courier is less than the minimum weekly 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2734 compensation rate calculated under AS 23.30.175(a), the weekly compensation must be equal to 100 percent of the driver's or courier's average weekly earnings; (3) accidental death insurance for the benefit of spouses, children, or other dependents of a driver or courier for injuries suffered by a driver or courier that result in death in an amount equal to 66 percent of the driver's or courier's average weekly earnings as of the date of injury but not more than the maximum weekly compensation rate calculated under AS 23.30.175(a); however, if the average weekly earnings of the driver or courier is less than the minimum weekly compensation rate calculated under AS 23.30.175(a), the weekly compensation must be equal to 100 percent of the driver's or courier's average weekly earnings multiplied by 104 weeks; and (4) when injuries suffered by a driver or courier result in death, an amount to pay for reasonable burial expenses, not to exceed eight times the maximum weekly compensation rate calculated under AS 23.30.175(a). (c) A policy required under this section may provide that, regardless of the number of policies involved, claims made, premiums shown on the policy, or premiums paid, the limits for any coverage under the policy may not be added to the limits for similar occupational accident insurance coverage provided by another company to determine the limit of occupational accident insurance coverage available arising from a single injury. (d) A benefit provided to a driver or courier under an occupational accident insurance policy required under this section must be treated as an amount payable under medical payments coverage, workers' compensation law, or a disability benefit for the purpose of determining the amount payable under uninsured and underinsured motorists coverage provided under AS 28.20.440 and 28.20.445. (e) If a claim is covered by more than one occupational accident insurance policy maintained by more than one company, the insurer of the company against whom a claim is filed is entitled to a contribution for the pro rata share of coverage attributable to other companies. (f) In this section, "average weekly earnings" means the total earnings of a driver or courier received from all transportation network companies and delivery network companies during the 28 days immediately preceding a covered incident, divided by four. * Sec. 16. AS 28.23.070 is amended to read: Sec. 28.23.070. Certificate of insurance. A [TRANSPORTATION 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2735 NETWORK] company shall file a written certificate of insurance with the director of the division of insurance demonstrating that the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company has satisfied the requirements of AS 28.23.050 and 28.23.065. A [. THE] certificate of insurance must state that the applicable insurance policy may not be cancelled unless written notice is provided to the division of insurance at least 30 days before cancellation. * Sec. 17. AS 28.23.080(a) is amended to read: (a) Except as provided in (b) of this section, a transportation network company or delivery network company is not an employer of transportation network company drivers or delivery network company couriers under AS 23.10.699, AS 23.20.520, or AS 23.30.395. A transportation network company driver or delivery network company courier is an independent contractor for all purposes and is not an employee of the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company if the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company (1) does not unilaterally prescribe specific hours during which a driver or courier shall be logged onto the digital network of the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company; (2) does not impose restrictions on the ability of the driver or courier to use the digital network of other transportation network companies or delivery network companies; (3) does not restrict a driver or courier from engaging in any other occupation or business; and (4) enters into a written agreement with the driver or courier stating that the driver or courier is an independent contractor for the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK] company. * Sec. 18. AS 28.23.180(1) is amended to read: (1) "digital network" means any online-enabled application, software, website, or system offered or used by a (A) transportation network company that enables the prearrangement of rides with transportation network company drivers; or (B) delivery network company to facilitate offers for delivery services; * Sec. 19. AS 28.23.180(2) is amended to read: (2) "personal vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is used by a [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier and is owned, leased, or otherwise authorized for use by the [TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY] driver or courier; 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2736 "personal vehicle" does not include a taxi, limousine, or other commercial motor vehicle for hire; * Sec. 20. AS 28.23.180 is amended by adding new paragraphs to read: (7) "company" means a transportation network company or a delivery network company; (8) "delivery network company" means a business entity that maintains a digital network used to facilitate offers for delivery services in the state; (9) "delivery network company courier" or "courier" means a person who is authorized to accept and fulfill offers through the digital network of a delivery network company; "delivery network company courier" or "courier" does not include a person whose services require the use of a vehicle weighing more than 6,000 pounds; (10) "delivery services" means the pickup of an item from a location in the state and the delivery of that item to a location selected by the customer within 50 miles of the pickup location by walking or using a motor vehicle, a bicycle, a scooter, public transportation, or other means of transportation and the selection, collection, or purchase of items by a delivery network company courier, as well as other services incident to delivery, beginning when a courier accepts an offer, continuing while the courier transports the requested item to the selected location, and ending when the courier completes the delivery or the delivery is otherwise terminated; "delivery services" does not include assistance with residential moving services; (11) "offer" means the opportunity to perform delivery services for compensation that a delivery network company presents to a courier through a digital network. * Sec. 21. AS 28.23.050(d) is repealed." Renumber the following bill sections accordingly. Page 2, line 3: Delete "sec. 1" Insert "sec. 6" Page 2, line 8, following "provisions": Insert "of sec. 6" 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2737 Senator Bjorkman moved for the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Senator Kawasaki objected. The question being: "Shall Amendment No. 1 be adopted?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSHB 214(STA) Second Reading Amendment No. 1? YEAS: 13 NAYS: 7 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Giessel, Hoffman, Kaufman, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Tilton, Yundt Nays: Dunbar, Gray-Jackson, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Stevens, Tobin, Wielechowski and so, Amendment No. 1 was adopted. CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) am S "An Act relating to transportation network companies and delivery network companies; relating to proof of financial responsibility for suspension for nonpayment of judgments; relating to insurance coverage for transportation of persons for hire; and relating to occupational accident insurance" was read the third time. The question being: CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) am S "An Act relating to transportation network companies and delivery network companies; relating to proof of financial responsibility for suspension for nonpayment of judgments; relating to insurance coverage for transportation of persons for hire; and relating to occupational accident insurance" pass the Senate?" The roll was taken with the following result: CSHB 214(STA) am S Third Reading - Final Passage YEAS: 17 NAYS: 3 EXCUSED: 0 ABSENT: 0 Yeas: Bjorkman, Claman, Cronk, Giessel, Gray-Jackson, Hoffman, Kaufman, Kawasaki, Kiehl, Merrick, Myers, Olson, Rauscher, Stedman, Stevens, Tilton, Yundt Nays: Dunbar, Tobin, Wielechowski 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2738 and so, SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) am S passed the Senate. Senator Kawasaki gave notice of reconsideration on CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 214(STA) am S. Announcements Rule 23(d) of the Alaska State Legislature Uniform Rules is currently in effect. Announcements are at the end of the journal. Engrossment HB 23 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 23(FIN)(edf add S) "An Act renaming the State Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to investigations and conciliation by the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to local civil rights commissions; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. HB 27 CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 27(HSS) am S(efd add S) "An Act relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development; relating to medical care for major emergencies; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2739 HB 52 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 52(FIN) "An Act relating to the rights of minors undergoing evaluation or inpatient treatment at psychiatric hospitals; relating to the use of seclusion or restraint of minors at psychiatric hospitals; relating to a report published by the Department of Health; relating to inspections by the Department of Health of certain psychiatric hospitals; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. HB 133 SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 133(FIN) am S "An Act establishing deadlines for the payment of contracts under the State Procurement Code; establishing deadlines for the payment of grants, contracts, and reimbursement agreements to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native organizations; relating to reports from state agencies to the legislature detailing late payments made during 2026; relating to the state financial transactions Internet website; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. HB 176 SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 176(EDC) "An Act relating to notice of new fees and fee increases from the University of Alaska; relating to billing statements from the University of Alaska; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. HB 298 SENATE CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 298(JUD) "An Act relating to the Legislative Ethics Act; relating to legislative subpoenas; relating to the jurisdiction of the office of the ombudsman; and providing for an effective date" was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and returned to the House for consideration. SCR 32 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 32 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 23, renaming the State 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2740 Commission for Human Rights the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to removal of commissioners of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to reports from the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; relating to the definition of 'employer' for the purposes of the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights; and relating to local civil rights commissions, was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and transmitted to the House for consideration. SCR 33 SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33 Suspending Rules 24(c), 35, 41(b), and 42(e), Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature, concerning House Bill No. 27, relating to medical care for major emergencies, was engrossed, signed by the President and Secretary and transmitted to the House for consideration. Adjournment Senator Giessel moved and asked unanimous consent the Senate stand in adjournment until 11:00 a.m., May 18, 2026. Without objection, the Senate adjourned at 3:52 p.m. Liz Clark Secretary of the Senate 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2741 Announcements Americans with Disabilities Act Notice - Persons with disabilities who require special accommodation or alternative communication formats to access committee meetings may contact the appropriate committee office or the Legislative Information Office in their community. Reasonable advance notice is needed to accommodate the request. For further information, call the ADA Coordinator at 465-3854 Voice/465-4980 TDD. STANDING COMMITTEES + indicates teleconference = indicates bill previously heard/scheduled EDUCATION May 18 Monday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 20 Wednesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- FINANCE May 18 Monday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + SJR 31 TYPHOON HALONG; SUPPORT COMM. RELOCATION Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled: += HB 28 TEACHER/STATE EMPLOYEE STUDENT LOAN PRGRM += SB 227 TAX COMPACT; SALES TAX; OIL & GAS TAX <Above Item Removed from Agenda> **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 18 Monday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM + HB 193 UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS; PAID PARENT LEAVE + HB 195 PHARMACIST PRESCRIPTION AUTHORITY Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 19 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 19 Tuesday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2742 FINANCE (continued) May 20 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 20 Wednesday Senate Finance 532 1:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES May 19 Tuesday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- JUDICIARY May 18 Monday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 20 Wednesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM No Meeting Scheduled ---------------------------------------- RESOURCES May 17 Sunday Butrovich 205 11:00 AM -- MEETING CANCELED -- -- Please Note Time Change -- += SB 280 OIL & GAS PROPERTY TAX; MUNI TAX Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 17 Sunday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM -- MEETING CANCELED -- += SB 280 OIL & GAS PROPERTY TAX; MUNI TAX Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** May 18 Monday Butrovich 205 9:00 AM -- Please Note Time Change -- += SB 280 OIL & GAS PROPERTY TAX; MUNI TAX Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** RESOURCES (continued) May 18 Monday Butrovich 205 3:30 PM += SB 280 OIL & GAS PROPERTY TAX; MUNI TAX Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** 2026-05-17 Senate Journal Page 2743 STATE AFFAIRS May 19 Tuesday Beltz 105 (tsbldg) 3:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- TRANSPORTATION May 19 Tuesday Butrovich 205 1:30 PM + Bills Previously Heard/Scheduled **Streamed live on AKL.tv** ---------------------------------------- CONFERENCE COMMITTEES CONFERENCE COMMITTEE ON HB263 AND HB265 May 17 Sunday Senate Finance 532 9:00 AM += HB 263 APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET;FUNDS;SUPP += HB 265 APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET + Department of Administration Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Department of Corrections Department of Education and Early Development Department of Environmental Conservation Department of Family and Community Services Department of Fish and Game Office of the Governor Department of Health Department of Labor Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs Department of Natural Resources Department of Public Safety Department of Revenue Department of Transportation and Public Facilities University of Alaska State Legislature Miscellaneous Items State Retirement Payments Fund Caps Permanent Fund Fund Transfers Supplemental Op Items Mental Health Capital Fiscal Notes