04/15/2025 03:30 PM Senate STATE AFFAIRS
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB34 | |
| SB120 | |
| SJR13 | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 34 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 120 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 116 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SJR 13 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 19 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
April 15, 2025
3:33 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Scott Kawasaki, Chair
Senator Jesse Bjorkman, Vice Chair
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
Senator Robert Yundt
MEMBERS ABSENT
All members present
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SENATE BILL NO. 34
"An Act relating to the duration of a regular session of the
legislature."
- MOVED SB 34 OUT OF COMMITTEE
SENATE BILL NO. 120
"An Act establishing the Alaska Climate Change Emergency
Response Commission; and relating to the powers and duties of
the Alaska Climate Change Emergency Response Commission."
- MOVED CSSB 120(STA) OUT OF COMMITTEE
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 13
Proposing amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska
relating to the appointment of state judges by the governor.
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 116
"An Act amending campaign contribution limits for state and
local office; directing the Alaska Public Offices Commission to
adjust campaign contribution limits for state and local office
once each decade beginning in 2031; and relating to campaign
contribution reporting requirements."
- SCHEDULED BUT NOT HEARD
SENATE BILL NO. 19
"An Act relating to the use and possession of electronic devices
by prisoners."
- SCHEDULED BUT NOT HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 34
SHORT TITLE: REPEAL 90 DAY SESSION LIMIT
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) GIESSEL
01/22/25 (S) PREFILE RELEASED 1/10/25
01/22/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/22/25 (S) STA, FIN
03/18/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/18/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/18/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
04/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SB 120
SHORT TITLE: CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) GRAY-JACKSON
03/05/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/05/25 (S) STA, FIN
03/13/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/13/25 (S) Scheduled but Not Heard
03/20/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/20/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/20/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
03/25/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/25/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/25/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
04/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SJR 13
SHORT TITLE: APPOINTMENT OF STATE JUDGES
SPONSOR(s): RULES BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR
02/28/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
02/28/25 (S) STA, JUD
03/20/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/20/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/20/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
04/15/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
WITNESS REGISTER
PAIGE BROWN, Staff
Senator Cathy Giessel
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a brief recap of SB 34.
DEIRDRE GOINS, Staff
Senator Gray-Jackson
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a brief recap of SB 120.
JULIA INGA, representing self
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
ALISA COX, representing self
Delta Junction, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
MELISSA SWOPE, representing self
Homer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
ED MARSHALL, representing self
Soldotna, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
WAYNE WOODS, representing self
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
KEN GRIFFIN, representing self
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
KEN HUCKEBA, representing self
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
MIKE COONS, representing self
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
CASSIE ANDREWS, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 120.
TREG TAYLOR, Attorney General
Department of Law
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a brief recap of SJR 13.
HEATHER ARNETT, Board Member
League of Women Voters of Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified with concerns on SJR 13.
DONNA GOLDSMITH, Co-Chair
Alaskan's for Fair Courts
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified with concerns on SJR 13.
SUSANNE DIPIETRO, Executive Director
Alaska Judicial Council
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions regarding SJR 13.
MIKE GERAGHTY, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SJR 13.
DAVID LANDRY, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SJR 13.
MIKE COONS, representing self
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SJR 13.
ED MARSHALL, representing self
Soldotna, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SJR 13.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:33:30 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI called the Senate State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting to order at 3:33 p.m. Present at the call to
order were Senators Bjorkman, Wielechowski, Yundt and Chair
Kawasaki. Senator Gray-Jackson arrived shortly thereafter.
SB 34-REPEAL 90 DAY SESSION LIMIT
3:34:36 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 34
"An Act relating to the duration of a regular session of the
legislature."
3:34:58 PM
PAIGE BROWN, Staff, Senator Cathy Giessel, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, presented a brief recap of SB 34
and stated that in 2006, voters approved a ballot initiative
limiting legislative sessions to 90 days; SB 34 proposes to
repeal that statutory cap.
3:35:24 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked what percentage of people voted for the
ballot initiative.
3:35:39 PM
MS. BROWN answered that just over 50 percent, though she can
verify and send the exact number to the committee.
3:36:00 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 34; finding none,
he closed public testimony.
3:36:22 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI solicited the will of the committee.
3:36:27 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN moved to report SB 34, work order 34-LS0323\A,
from committee with individual recommendations and attached
fiscal note(s).
3:36:49 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI found no objection and SB 34 was reported from
the Senate State Affairs Standing Committee.
3:37:00 PM
At ease.
SB 120-CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION
3:38:19 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 120 "An Act establishing the
Alaska Climate Change Emergency Response Commission; and
relating to the powers and duties of the Alaska Climate Change
Emergency Response Commission."
This is the third hearing of SB 120, [CSSB version N was adopted
at the previous meeting.]
3:39:33 PM
DEIRDRE GOINS, Staff, Senator Gray-Jackson, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, presented a brief recap of SB 120
and stated that Alaska is already experiencing serious climate
change impacts. SB 120 would establish a commission to
coordinate the state's response, secure federal resources, and
ensure communities, especially the most vulnerable, have a voice
in planning for the future.
3:40:49 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 120.
3:41:09 PM
JULIA INGA, representing self, Palmer, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 and argued that SB 120 is unnecessary,
calling it an overreaching bureaucracy that would waste money,
burden communities with rules, and threaten vital industries
like oil, gas, and fishing. She stressed that Alaskans should
adapt to nature locally, invest in practical needs like
infrastructure and healthcare, and resist outside climate
mandates or agendas.
3:44:32 PM
ALISA COX, representing self, Delta Junction, Alaska, testified
in opposition to SB 120, and viewing it as a "money grab" and
fear-mongering tactic rather than a genuine climate solution.
She argued that Alaskans know how to adapt to natural weather
cycles, that local forests already capture carbon effectively,
and that outside interventions only waste money on unnecessary
programs. She emphasized that the state's real needs are
practical infrastructure improvements, not regulatory control
over residents or expensive climate initiatives.
3:48:04 PM
MELISSA SWOPE, representing self, Homer, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 and creating the Alaska Climate Change
Emergency Response Commission. She said the commission is
costly, intrusive, and unaccountable. She argued it would drain
millions from the treasury, add unnecessary bureaucracy, and
empower outside lobbyists and NGOs to impose harmful regulations
on Alaska's core industries. She urged investing in
infrastructure that directly benefits Alaskans and focusing on
practical, locally driven solutions that honor the state's
history and values.
3:50:52 PM
ED MARSHALL, representing self, Soldotna, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120, criticizing the Alaska legislature for
overreach, corruption, and poor priorities. He said the
legislature has cited unchecked union funding, renewable energy
mandates, red flag laws, and other controversial actions. He
accused lawmakers of arrogance, ignoring voter decisions, and
mismanaging issues like climate policy, while expressing
frustration and urging voters to hold legislators accountable in
the next election.
3:53:33 PM
WAYNE WOODS, representing self, Palmer, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 arguing that the commission's powers are
overly broad and primarily benefit the green energy and climate-
change industry at Alaska's expense. He warned it could harm the
state's economy and allow undue influence from international
nonprofits, calling for lawmakers in Juneau to focus.
3:56:42 PM
KEN GRIFFIN, representing self, Wasilla, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 and calling it an overreach that strips
citizen sovereignty, wastes money on unnecessary commissions,
and fails to address real economic challenges. He warned it will
worsen Alaska's affordability crisis, drive residents away, and
accuse lawmakers of mismanaging priorities while failing to
protect the people's rights.
3:59:25 PM
KEN HUCKEBA, representing self, Wasilla, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 arguing that the bill empowers Non-
Government Organizations (NGOs) and special interests at the
expense of individual sovereignty and Alaska's representative
government. He criticized additional commissions, mandates, and
regulations as burdensome, economically harmful, and unsupported
by measurable outcomes, calling the legislation an offense to
common sense.
4:02:07 PM
MIKE COONS, representing self, Wasilla, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 120 criticizing the bill as an unnecessary and
costly commission driven by "climate change hysteria" and
compares it to policies in states he views as overly socialist.
He argued climate predictions have been exaggerated; Alaska's
budget is already in deficit. He said the legislature should
focus on constitutional responsibilities like balancing the
budget and protecting the Permanent Fund Dividend rather than
creating more bureaucracy.
4:05:49 PM
CASSIE ANDREWS, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified
in opposition to SB 120 and argued that the commission is less
about protecting the environment and more about giving NGOs and
climate activists a taxpayer-funded platform. She stressed
Alaska's emissions are negligible globally, yet the state is
unfairly targeted. Even with local members, the commission would
be influenced by outside money and mandates. She asked instead
for practical, common-sense adaptation rather than climate
alarmism.
[CHAIR KAWASAKI closed public testimony on SB 120.]
4:07:17 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI solicited the will of the committee.
4:07:25 PM
At ease.
4:07:33 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI reconvened the meeting.
4:07:38 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON moved to report CSSB 120, work order 34-
LS0073\N, from committee with individual recommendations and
attached fiscal note(s).
4:07:53 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI found no objection and CSSB 120(STA) was reported
from the Senate State Affairs Standing Committee.
4:08:08 PM
At ease.
SJR 13-APPOINTMENT OF STATE JUDGES
4:09:40 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 13 Proposing
amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska relating
to the appointment of state judges by the governor.
4:10:08 PM
TREG TAYLOR, Attorney General, Department of Law, Anchorage,
Alaska, presented a brief recap of SJR 13 and stated that this
resolution seeks to restore balance between Alaska's branches of
government by changing how judicial candidates are forwarded to
the governor. Instead of only advancing the "most qualified"
applicants, the Judicial Council would be required to pass along
all individuals who meet the constitutional qualifications,
giving the governor a broader selection.
4:11:25 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that he has heard of mistrust in the
Federal Judiciary Council but not in the Alaska Judiciary
Council and asked for examples of lack of confidence and trust.
4:11:43 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR noted increased "no" votes in judicial
retention elections. He said experts suggest this reflects
broader anti-system sentiment rather than specific issues with
judges. The concern has led to the creation of groups like
Alaskans for Fair Courts, signaling a perception that the
judiciary no longer represents ordinary Alaskans.
4:13:57 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked whether disliking Alaska's judicial
system on social media should justify changing the state
constitution to fix it.
4:14:08 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied no. He said the person on social
media said the attorney general was doing a horrible job running
the judiciary.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for a name of the person that said
the attorney general was doing a horrible job running the
judiciary and asked for proof.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he can look for the post,
though numbers speak for themselves. He said the judicial
retention votes in Alaska are showing a declining trend, with
support dropping below 60 percent. This growing concern over the
judicial system's operation led to the formation of Alaskans for
Fair Courts.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI read a section of the letter from the group
named, Justice not Politics:
[Original punctuation provided.]
The mean "yes" vote percentages for appellate judges
and trial judges in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th Judicial
Districts are consistently above 60 percent, with many
judges polling above 65 percent. The 3rd Judicial
District is more volatile, but still positive. The
mean "yes" vote percentages for trial court judges in
the 3rd Judicial District were above 60 percent in
2020, fell below 60 percent in 2022, but then rose
again in 2024 to just below 60 percent.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if the data from the letter sounded
accurate.
4:15:41 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he can't cite those
numbers. He noted that recent judicial elections show declining
support and the top public complaint he hears is that Alaska's
judiciary does not reflect the values of the average Alaskan.
4:16:14 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked whether he and the attorneys that
work for him believe Alaska's judicial system is unfair.
4:16:26 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he isn't debating policy,
however he is representing the governor's proposal to change
judicial selection, so all qualified candidates are forwarded to
the governor, rather than only the "most qualified."
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if, as head of the largest law firm
in the state, Attorney General Taylor agreed that Alaska should
have a qualified judiciary that attorneys could trust and
whether he had confidence in the state's judicial system.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he supports requiring the
Judicial Council to advance all qualified candidates to the
governor, arguing this returns power to the people and
legislature. He cited art. IV, sec. 4, Constitution of the State
of Alaska and noted the constitution sets three basic
qualifications and allows the legislature to add other authority
that should rest with elected lawmakers, not an unelected
council with three members.
4:17:54 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked, if under the proposed system,
someone could become a lifetime judge simply by meeting the
minimum years as an attorney, even if otherwise unqualified.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR answered that under the proposal, the
Judicial Council would forward all qualified candidates, but
legislaturenot the councilwould determine qualifications. He
said this would return power to the people to decide who can
become a judge in Alaska.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI commented that legislators don't have a
direct legislative say. He asked if legislators would vote to
confirm judges under SJR 13.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the Alaska Constitution
gives the legislature authority to set judicial qualifications.
He said the proposal empowers lawmakersnot the unelected
Judicial Councilto decide who becomes a judge.
4:19:15 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if he would be open to an amendment
so that potential judges are subject to legislative approval or
confirmation.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR said SJR 13 was a starting point and
represented the governor's policy choice to address growing
concern among Alaskans with the judicial system. He stated it
was within the committee's rights to amend SJR 13.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked how long Alaska has been without a
federal district court judge.
4:19:49 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that there are currently two
federal openings, with names being submitted by the committees
of Senators Murkowski and Sullivan, following the longstanding
federal system process.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked how long has Alaska been without a
judge in the Federal District Court.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he can't say for sure,
maybe half a year.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI said there hasn't been a federal judge for
several years. He asked if he thought emulating the federal
system and not having a judge for the state of Alaska for
several years is a good process.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that SJR 13 is not emulating the
federal system. He said the Alaska judicial council puts forward
all qualified applicants.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that under the current system,
judges are evaluated by colleagues, the public, and those the
judges represent. The proposed legislation would forward all
candidates meeting minimum qualificationsregardless of scores
for the governor's consideration. He asked if that's a better
system.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR responded that SJR 13 only forwards
"qualified" candidates, comparing it to other professions where
meeting basic credentials suffices. This resolution shifts the
power from six unelected council members back to the legislature
and, by extension, the people.
4:21:39 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if the Judicial Council includes
public members who are nominated by the governor and confirmed
by the legislature, countering the characterization of it as
solely unelected.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR answered yes.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if there are several attorneys who
are selected by colleagues.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR answered yes, three attorneys are
selected by colleagues.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for examples of when the Judicial
Council has been unfair in forwarding names.
4:22:08 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR said he has noticed several attorneys
with stellar careers that the Alaska Judicial Council (AJC) has
not passed through for consideration. There is a perception
among residents that the Alaska judiciary does not represent the
people.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for the names of the [attorneys] that
weren't forwarded by the Judicial Council.
4:22:27 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied he would not give names because
what is important is the people's distrust of the judicial
system. In increasing numbers people are voting to recall judges
regardless of their performance, which is an indication of
growing distrust for how judges are selected in Alaska.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked how many judges have been recalled in
the state's history.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that six judges have been
recalled.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that it seems the system is working.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that Senator Wielechowski is
entitled to his opinion. He explained that SJR 13 reflects the
governor's policy aimed at addressing increasing public distrust
in Alaska's judiciary.
4:23:54 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked for a clear, simple explanation of the
judicial selection process, including how ties are handled on
the six-member Judicial Council.
4:24:23 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the Alaska Judicial Council
consists of six selected members, three public and three
attorneys, plus the Chief Justice as a tiebreaker. He said
historically, the Chief Justice have sided with attorney members
that vote the same, fostering public distrust that the bar
controls judicial selection. He provided an anecdote and said
there is a tendency for public members to defer to attorneys,
creating an imbalance in decision-making and reinforcing
perceptions that the system favors legal insiders over the
public.
4:27:22 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked if there are three members selected by the
bar and three members selected by the public, who constituted
the public members.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the three members of the
public are selected by the governor.
SENATOR YUNDT asked who selects the Chief Justice.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the Chief Justice is
selected by the other justices of the Supreme Court.
SENATOR YUNDT asked if it was Attorney General Taylor's
assertion that the courts have a 43 advantage in the seven-
member Judicial Council, since they helped determine four
members while neither the legislature nor the governor could
ever have a fourth representative on the body.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that is exactly right.
SENATOR YUNDT acknowledged it could be seen as a potential
issue.
4:28:27 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON noted that while many emails and letters
have been received regarding the resolution, none have expressed
support. He asked why the public hasn't communicated approval of
the resolution.
4:29:06 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that public complaints about the
judiciary are commonly received by his office. He emphasized
that the power to select judges should rest with elected
legislatorswhom voters know and trustrather with the largely
unknown members of the Alaska Judicial Council.
4:30:14 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked how frequently tie votes occur on the
Judicial Council, given its equal split between attorney members
and public members.
4:30:26 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied he did not know the exact
number, but it has occurred a handful of times since he became
attorney general. In each case the Chief Justice voted with the
attorney members to block an applicant, making the vote
underinclusive rather than overinclusive.
4:31:14 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked what percentage of votes were ties.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR said he would review the last 30 votes
for ties and report back to the committee.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked how often disagreements occur between
attorney members and non-attorney members.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that in 3-3 votes on the
Judicial Council, the split consistently occurs along member
type the three attorney members vote against forwarding a
candidate the three public members vote in favor.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for the number of disagreements
between attorneys and non-attorneys.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he cant speculate and will
report back to the committee.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that the Judicial Council evaluates
nominees based on professional competence, diligence,
administrative skills, integrity, fairness, temperament,
judgment, common sense, legal and life experience, and
commitment to public service, equal justice, and the legal needs
of all Alaskans. He asked if this was his understanding.
4:32:59 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the Alaska Judicial
Council's standards listed above also include criteria related
to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), are inherently
subjective and, as a result, contribute to growing public
distrust of the judicial selection process. He emphasized that
nowhere in the Alaska Constitution is there a requirement to
select the "most qualified" candidate; this concept of the "most
qualified" is entirely a creation of the Judicial Council
itself, rather than a mandate from elected officials, the
governor, or the people. He said by relying on these subjective
standards, the council introduces potential bias into the
selection process, which undermines transparency and fosters
skepticism among Alaskans about whether the judiciary truly
reflects the interests and values of the public.
4:33:55 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked where the DEI requirements can be
found.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the DEI requirements can be
found in Alaska Judicial Council Bylaws, Art. 1, Sec. 2:
[Original punctuation provided.]
the Council shall also consider the following
criteria: other candidates who have applied; the
position applied for; and the community in which the
position is located. The Council shall actively
encourage qualified members of the bar to seek
nomination to such offices, making every effort to
promote diversity, including gender and ethnic
diversity, and shall strive to inform the public of
Alaska's judicial and public defender selection
process.
4:34:49 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked Attorney General Taylor if he would
like the legislature to change Section 2 so that diversity is
not promoted.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied, as a person concerned about the
qualifications of a judge, does he think the color of that judge
should matter.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that the governor is free to propose
legislation, and suggested he do so if he feels strongly about
diversity.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR stated that the discussion is a starting
point regarding public distrust in the Judiciary in the state of
Alaska.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked which judges were appointed because
of their diversity.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that this wasn't his rule; it's
a bylaw passed by the Alaska Judicial Council.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked Attorney General Taylor to name any
judge in Alaska's history that was appointed specifically
because of DEI considerations.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR reiterated that it was not his rule and
that he did not know.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that Attorney General Taylor said
DEI requirements played a part in [the appointment of a Judges].
He asked for the identity of a single judge in Alaska's history
who was appointed specifically due to DEI considerations.
4:36:13 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that he could not name a judge
appointed as a result of DEI.
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI interjected exactly.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR explained that the Judicial Council's
process is closed to the public, making it impossible to know
the reasoning behind decisions. He emphasized that only the
final outcomes are visible, and that secrecy stems from the
council's own rules, not from elected officials.
4:36:56 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked whether the legislature would have authority
to establish a list of qualifications for judges if SJR 13
passed.
4:37:14 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied that the legislature already has
a list of qualifications found in statute: Justices- AS
22.05.070, Court of Appeals of Judges- AS 22.07.040, Superior
Court Judges- AS 22.10.090, District Court Judges
qualifications- AS 22.15.160. He stated that there isn't
anything stopping the legislature from adding to the template.
4:37:42 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked whether the Legislature could amend the
process to allow the governor to select from all qualified
candidates, with the legislature confirming the appointment,
similar to other appointments.
4:38:18 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR replied there is nothing stopping the
legislature from amending SJR 13.
SENATOR YUNDT doubted that any judge was ever selected based on
DEI and acknowledges that its inclusion in the bylaws could
create public perception that it influences judicial
appointments.
4:39:03 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN asked about the role of the Commission on
Judicial Conduct in ensuring judges are accountable, act in the
public interest, and fulfill duties appropriately.
4:39:28 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR admitted his knowledge of judicial
accountability is rusty, suggesting the court system may better
explain. He noted there are mechanisms for holding judges
accountable and referenced a past attempt involving a judge in
Kenai.
4:40:22 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN read art. IV, sec 10, Constitution of the State
of Alaska:
[Original punctuation provided.]
The Commission on Judicial Conduct shall consist of
nine members, as follows: three persons who are
justices or judges of state courts, elected by the
justices and judges of state courts; three members who
have practiced law in this state for ten years,
appointed by the governor from nominations made by the
governing body of the organized bar and subject to
confirmation by a majority of the members of the
legislature in joint session; and three persons who
are not judges, retired judges, or members of the
state bar, appointed by the governor and subject to
confirmation by a majority of the members of the
legislature in joint session. In addition to being
subject to impeachment under section 12 of this
article, a justice or judge may be disqualified from
acting as such and may be suspended, removed from
office, retired, or censured by the supreme court upon
the recommendation of the commission. The powers and
duties of the commission and the bases for judicial
disqualification shall be established by law.
4:41:45 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SJR 13.
4:42:04 PM
HEATHER ARNETT, Board Member, League of Women Voters of Alaska,
Anchorage, Alaska, testified with concerns on SJR 13. She said
the League of Women Voters of Alaska conducted a 2015 study
comparing judicial selection systems and concluded Alaska's
current merit-based process works well. She argued that SJR 13
would undermine this system by eliminating the Alaska Judicial
Council's evaluative role, giving the governor full control over
appointments. The council's current process ensures judges are
chosen for competence, integrity, fairness, and public service,
resulting in highly qualified candidates who best uphold equal
justice.
4:45:09 PM
DONNA GOLDSMITH, Co-Chair, Alaskans for Fair Courts, Anchorage,
Alaska, testified with concerns on SJR 13. She refuted Attorney
General Taylor's claims, that the Alaska Judicial Council
ensures transparency, rigor, and nonpartisan evaluation of
judges. She noted the Chief Justice does not always side with
attorneys, the "best/tallest timber" standard has historical and
constitutional precedent, and the current system is open for
public review. Granting full appointment authority to the
governor would politicize the process and reduce accountability,
unlike the merit-based, transparent system that maintains high
public support for judges statewide.
CHAIR KAWASAKI stated that questions regarding statistically how
many go to a 3-3 tie breaker would be helpful to the Senate
State Affairs Committee.
4:52:23 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for statistics on the frequency of
tie votes within the Alaska Judicial Council.
4:52:41 PM
SUSANNE DIPIETRO, Executive Director, Alaska Judicial Council,
Anchorage, Alaska, answered questions regarding SJR 13 and
stated that since 1984, the Alaska Judicial Council has recorded
a total of 1,605 votes on judicial nominations. In most cases
about 84 percent of the time all members, or all but one, are in
agreement on whether to forward a candidate. She said tie votes
that require the Chief Justice to cast a deciding vote are
extremely rare, occurring in only 1.4 percent of all votes,
which amounts to just a couple dozen instances since 1984. When
the Chief Justice is called upon to break a tie, they vote to
forward the nominee to the governor roughly 72 percent of the
time, giving the governor the opportunity to make the final
appointment. This demonstrates that the process is largely
consistent and non-contentious, with the Chief Justice's tie-
breaking role being an infrequent and generally affirmative
intervention.
4:54:33 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if the Alaska Judicial Council has
ever chosen a judge based on DEI.
4:54:47 PM
MS. DIPIETRO replied not to her knowledge. She said the
statement about the council's nomination standards was
incorrect. The council encourages qualified applicants,
including diverse candidates, though nominees must meet only the
following standards: professional competence; diligence and
administrative skills; integrity; fairness; temperament;
judgment, including common sense and legal/life experience;
commitment to public and community service; and commitment to
equal justice and Alaska's diverse communities. She said no
other considerations are used, though the council does consider
the pool of applicants for each position.
4:56:09 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if it was accurate that tie votes
between attorneys and non-attorneys on the Alaska Judicial
Council occur only 1.4 percent of the time, and that in 72
percent of those cases, the Chief Justice votes to forward the
nominee to the governor.
MS. DIPIETRO replied that tie votes on the council are uncommon,
and a split specifically between attorneys and non-attorneys is
very rare. When the Chief Justice casts a tie-breaking vote,
they vote yes about 72 percent of the time. She stated that
within the last five years there are examples of the Chief
Justice voting with non-attorneys.
4:58:22 PM
MIKE GERAGHTY, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified
in opposition to SJR 13. He stated that from 2012-2014 he served
as the Attorney General for the State of Alaska. He argued that
SJR-13 would weaken the Alaska Judicial Council by limiting its
role to listing only minimally qualified applicants for the
governor, rather than those with the highest qualifications. He
emphasized that the council's bipartisan, transparent process
has worked effectively under both parties and helps maintain
judicial independence. He viewed the resolution as a step in the
wrong direction that could undermine the rule of law and hopes
it does not pass.
5:01:15 PM
DAVID LANDRY, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SJR 13. He warned that removing safeguards on
executive power over the judiciary, as proposed in SJR 13, could
replicate the problems seen in the federal system. He cited a
2024 Alaskan federal judge who resigned after five years due to
inappropriate behavior, highlighting how political appointments
of minimally qualified candidates can create chaos. He
emphasized that Alaska needs judges with maximum qualifications,
a standard ensured by the current Alaska Judicial Council
process.
5:03:53 PM
MIKE COONS, representing self, Wasilla, Alaska, testified in
support of SJR 13. He argued that the judiciary has become too
powerful and biased, favoring liberal policies and DEI
principles, rather than being independent or reflecting
conservative values. He claimed the current system allows a
small group of lawyers on the Judicial Council to control
judicial appointments and advocate for judges who align with
liberal views. He supports a constitutional amendment requiring
the council to forward all qualified candidates so the governor
can select, including the ability to choose outside the
council's recommendations, ensuring judges uphold the
constitution rather than political or ideological preferences.
5:06:06 PM
ED MARSHALL, representing self, Soldotna, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SJR 13. He stated that he initially supported SJR
13 yet changed his mind after hearing testimony. He distrusts
both the Judicial Council and the governor to make fair judicial
appointments, citing past political manipulations. He opposed
the resolution as written and instead advocates for a system
where Supreme Court justices are elected directly by the people,
similar to Wisconsin, rather than being selected by lawyers or
legislative bodies.
5:08:42 PM
ATTORNEY GENERAL TAYLOR emphasized that his testimony reflects
personal experience and public feedback, not the history of the
Alaska Judicial Council. He explained that SJR 13 is a policy
proposal aimed at restoring public confidence in the judiciary
by ensuring all qualified candidates are forwarded to the
governor. The legislature, elected by the people, determines
qualifications, not the unelected Alaska Judicial Council.
5:10:01 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SJR 13 in committee.
5:10:39 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Kawasaki adjourned the Senate State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting at 5:10 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 62 Support parole reform AP_Redacted.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 62 |
| SB 62 Support parole reform JY_Redacted.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 62 |
| SB 62 Support parole reform_Redacted RG.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 62 |
| SJR 13 Opposition LH_Redacted.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| JNPA opposition to SJR13 letter.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| SJR15 TW.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 15 |
| Opposition to SJR 13 DL.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| Trust Responses to S&H STA Committee Questions 2025 4.11.25.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
AMHTA presentation |
| SJR 13 Opposition LH.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| SJR 13 Opposition FT_Redacted.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| SJR 13 opposition WC.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| Support of Senate Bill 19 DA.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 19 |
| Support of Senate Bill 19 KM_Redacted.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 62 |
| LWVAK supports SB 116.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 116 |
| Climate Hoax SB 120 Oppose.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 120 |
| SJR 13-3.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |
| SJR 13 Fiscal Note.pdf |
SSTA 4/15/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 13 |