03/18/2025 03:30 PM Senate STATE AFFAIRS
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB64 | |
| SB35 | |
| SB34 | |
| SB37 | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 64 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SB 35 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SB 34 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SB 37 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
March 18, 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. 64
"An Act relating to elections; relating to voters; relating to
voting; relating to voter preregistration for minors at least 16
years of age; relating to voter registration; relating to the
Alaska Public Offices Commission; relating to synthetic media in
electioneering communications; relating to campaign signs;
relating to public official financial disclosures; relating to
the crime of unlawful interference with voting in the first
degree; and providing for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 35
"An Act relating to transportation network and delivery network
companies."
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 34
"An Act relating to the duration of a regular session of the
legislature."
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 37
"An Act relating to the Executive Budget Act; relating to
strategic plans, mission statements, performance plans, and
financial plans for executive branch agencies; and providing for
an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 64
SHORT TITLE: ELECTIONS
SPONSOR(s): RULES
01/24/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/24/25 (S) STA, FIN
01/30/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
01/30/25 (S) Heard & Held
01/30/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
02/04/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
02/04/25 (S) Heard & Held
02/04/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
03/11/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/11/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/11/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
03/13/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/13/25 (S) Heard & Held
03/13/25 (S) MINUTE(STA)
03/18/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SB 35
SHORT TITLE: DELIVERY NETWORK COMPANIES
SPONSOR(s): BJORKMAN
01/10/25 (S) PREFILE RELEASED 1/10/25
01/22/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/22/25 (S) STA, L&C
03/18/25 (S) STA AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SB 34
SHORT TITLE: REPEAL 90 DAY SESSION LIMIT
SPONSOR(s): GIESSEL
01/10/25 (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)
BILL: SB 37
SHORT TITLE: STRATEGIC PLANS FOR STATE AGENCIES
SPONSOR(s): KAUFMAN
01/10/25 (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)
WITNESS REGISTER
CAROL BEECHER, Director
Division of Elections
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Spoke to the proposed amendments for SB 64.
MARY DAVID, Executive Vice President
Kawerak Inc.
Nome, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 64.
ED MARTIN, representing self
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 64.
MARGE STONEKING, Advocacy Director
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 64.
SAVAYA BIEBER, Staff
Senator Jesse Bjorkman
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided the sectional analysis for SB 35.
JOHN FINLEY, Public Policy
Uber Eats
San Francisco, California
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SB 35.
PATRICK FITZGERALD, Political Coordinator
Teamsters Local 959
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SB 35.
JESSICA LYMAN, Government Affairs
Western U.S.
Instacart
San Francisco, California
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 35.
KARI NORE, Director
External Affairs
Alaska Chamber of Commerce
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 35.
ANNA POWELL, Senior Manager
Government Relations
Door Dash
Seattle, Washington
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 35.
SENATOR CATHY GIESSEL, District E
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of SB 34.
PAIGE BROWN, Staff
Senator Cathy Giessel
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided the sectional analysis for SB 34.
ED MARTIN, representing self
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 34.
SENATOR JAMES KAUFMAN, District F
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of SB 37.
EMMA TORKELSON, Staff
Senator James Kaufman
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a summary of the sectional analysis
for SB 37.
ED MARTIN, representing self
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 37.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:33:04 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 64-ELECTIONS
3:34:14 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 64
"An Act relating to elections; relating to voters; relating to
voting; relating to voter preregistration for minors at least 16
years of age; relating to voter registration; relating to the
Alaska Public Offices Commission; relating to synthetic media in
electioneering communications; relating to campaign signs;
relating to public official financial disclosures; relating to
the crime of unlawful interference with voting in the first
degree; and providing for an effective date."
3:35:56 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked Ms. Beecher to speak on ballot tracking and
related issues.
3:36:06 PM
CAROL BEECHER, Director, Division of Elections, Anchorage,
Alaska, spoke to the proposed amendments for SB 64 and answered
that people can access the My Voter Portal (MVP) by contacting
the Division of Elections to receive a code to log in. Once
logged in the voter can see if their ballot was mailed or
received by the division. With no cure process the voter won't
be able to see or be notified of ballot issues until after the
election.
3:37:01 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked about potential issues with using a more
extensive level of ballot tracking.
3:37:15 PM
MS. BEECHER responded that the division is in contact with
ballot tracking vendors, like the vendor BallotTrax used by the
City of Anchorage, to decide whether vendors can help solve
ballot tracking problems.
3:37:47 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI said that Anchorage is an urban area with
post offices, but rural Alaska doesn't have the same
infrastructure. He asked if she could explain the complexities
that exist with ballot tracking and what other option Alaska has
besides putting RFID chips in each ballot.
3:38:15 PM
MS. BEECHER answered that one of the main challenges is the lack
of ability to scan postal codes in rural areas and figuring out
how to track ballots coming back to the division by adding the
tracking mechanisms into the ballot envelopes. She opined that a
ballot tracking system would not work in the rural areas at this
time.
3:39:15 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI referenced Section 41 [AS 15.20.221 and AS
15.20.222] and stated that the committee needs to review Section
41 to adhere to best practices, including ballot tracking.
3:40:14 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that he supports ballot tracking and
asked if Alaska will be able to obtain a ballot tracking system
under what the current laws require.
3:40:35 PM
MS. BEECHER responded that she will know more after meeting with
the vendors.
3:41:19 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI stated that in the sectional analysis for SB
Section 43 says the director will provide secure ballot drop
boxes at every division office. He noted in a previous election
year there were secure ballot boxes outside of each division
office in Anchorage and Fairbanks. He asked whether Ms. Beecher
could adopt regulations to provide drop boxes outside of each
division office.
3:42:12 PM
MS. BEECHER answered that the division doesn't own its own drop
boxes. In 2020 it borrowed drop boxes from the municipality. She
said for this provision to work the division would need to buy
the drop boxes, have a place to store them in the off-election
year, have a way to move them to the correct locations, install
a security monitoring system with cameras, and during election
time the boxes would need to be manned and closed by 8 pm. She
stated that if the legislation passes a regulation that requires
the division to provide pre-paid ballot envelopes, voters could
go to the USPS and there wouldn't be a need for secure ballot
boxes.
3:43:39 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI agreed that there wouldn't be a need for
ballot drop boxes if the division sent out pre-paid ballot
envelopes. He asked if putting a ballot box in the Division of
Elections would be a large cost.
3:44:16 PM
MS. BEECHER clarified if he was referring to an actual box
similar to the ones the municipality has or a box you can put on
the counter.
3:44:29 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI answered that he thinks a box at the
counter would suffice.
3:44:33 PM
MS. BEECHER answered that all election offices have drop boxes
that can be used on election day.
3:44:44 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that the idea of requesting ballot
drop boxes is getting expensive and asked if she had an estimate
for the fiscal note.
3:45:01 PM
MS. BEECHER answered that the division knows the cost of the
boxes but not the freight or monitoring system that will be
required in tandem with the boxes.
3:45:33 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 64.
3:46:17 PM
MARY DAVID, Executive Vice President, Kawerak Inc., Nome,
Alaska, testified in support of SB 64 and listed some challenges
from last elections namely: limited polling hours, staff
shortages and rejected ballots due to missing witness
signatures. She said during the general elections in 2024, House
District 39 only had 40.9 percent show up to vote. She suggested
removing the witness signature requirement to make it more
convenient for rural Alaska and military to vote. She noted that
many rural Alaskans residents speak English as a second language
and having staff that could translate would be helpful.
3:48:37 PM
ED MARTIN, representing self, Kenai, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 64 and stated that by law, contractors that
handle ballots must be bonded. He stated his belief that the
witness signature and photo ID should remain required.
3:50:58 PM
MARGE STONEKING, Advocacy Director, American Association of
Retired Persons Alaska (AARP), Anchorage, Alaska, testified in
support of SB 64 and stated that AARP supports election laws
that maximize the opportunity for voter participation and expand
voter access, by removing the witness signature requirement of
absentee mail-in ballots, creating a ballot curing process for
voters, providing return postage envelopes to pay for mail-in
ballots and requiring a secure drop box for every 20,000
residents.
3:53:35 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held public testimony open for SB 64.
3:54:13 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 64 in committee.
SB 35-DELIVERY NETWORK COMPANIES
3:54:46 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 35
"An Act relating to transportation network and delivery network
companies."
3:55:16 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN speaking as sponsor of SB 35 introduced the
legislation:
[Original punctuation provided.]
SB 35 amends statutes related to workers compensation,
aligning individuals who provide delivery services
through delivery network companies with individuals
who provide services through Transportation Network
Companies. The legislation will define these workers
as independent contractors, provided they meet
statutory requirements.
3:55:48 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN continued with the introduction of SB 35:
Currently, delivery network companies are not defined
in statute, which has led to confusion and litigation
across the country, threatening these services that
customers value and depend on.
People have built a dependence on Digital Network
Companies, for food and other items. DNC's can deliver
prescriptions, groceries, household supplies and even
pick up prescriptions from a customer's home and get
it filled at a pharmacy.
Drivers will often swap between passenger
transportation and goods delivery and sometimes are
even logged onto multiple apps at once, depending on
the demand of customers.
Roughly 90 percent of drivers work less than 10 hours
per week. These drivers usually provide delivery
services to supplement their income, so they can work
their full-time job, or go to school during the day,
et cetera.
The vast majority of door dashers prefer to remain
working as independent contractors. Thus, creating a
need for a path forward that requires drivers to have
the ability to work as much or as little as they want,
and whenever they want.
3:57:15 PM
SAVAYA BIEBER, Staff, Senator Jesse Bjorkman, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided the sectional analysis for
SB 35:
[Original punctuation provided.]
SB 35 Delivery Network Companies
Version A Sectional Analysis
Section 1: Amends AS 23.30.230(a) by adding a delivery
network company courier that provides delivery
services or is logged onto the digital network of a
delivery network company under AS 28.23.080 to the
list of individuals who are not covered by the Alaska
Workers' Compensation Act.
Section 2: Amends AS 28.23.080(a) to establish that
delivery network companies are not an employer of
transportation network drivers or delivery network
couriers under AS 23.10.699, AS 23.20.520, or AS
23.30.395. It further clarifies that an independent
contractor for all purposes is not an employee of the
company if the company does not propose specific
working hours, does not impose restrictions on the
ability of the driver to use the digital network of
other companies, does not restrict a driver from
engaging in any other occupation, or if the company
enters into a written agreement with the driver or
courier stating that the driver is an independent
contractor for the company.
Section 3: Amends AS 28.23.180(1) by adding to the
definition of "digital network" to include use by
delivery network companies to facilitate offers for
delivery services.
Section 4: Adds definitions to AS 28.23.180, to define
"company", "delivery network company", "delivery
network company courier" or "courier", "delivery
services", and "offer".
3:58:59 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked if there is insurance coverage for a
person driving a car used for delivery services.
3:59:11 PM
MS. BIEBER answered she would have to get back to him with an
answer.
3:59:24 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that delivery drivers are exempt
from workers' compensation in Alaska if involved in an accident
but when the driver gets sick or gets a disease from a passenger
that they drove in their car, the driver may qualify for
workers' compensation. He noted in Section 4, line 7, [AS
28.23.180] a company is defined as a transportation network
company or a delivery network company and asked if UPS, FedEx,
or the United States Postal Service be swept into that
definition.
4:00:17 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN answered that his office can check with the
Department of Labor and the Division of Insurance.
4:00:35 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked if Senator Bjorkman knows how many Alaskan
customers Uber Eats, or similar delivery companies, serve on a
daily or weekly basis.
4:00:51 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN answered that he doesn't have an exact number,
but Uber Eats has about 16,000 thousand customers in Alaska and
DoorDash has about 14,000 thousand customers.
4:01:19 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked if Senator Bjorkman's office knows of any
states where the delivery drivers are considered employees.
4:01:35 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN answered that he is not aware of any states
that consider delivery drivers to be employees.
4:01:43 PM
MS. BIEBER added that none of the 50 states consider delivery
drivers as employees.
4:01:54 PM
SENATOR YUNDT asked if Senator Bjorkman has asked delivery
drivers whether they would continue working for the delivery
network companies if the drivers were classified as employees.
4:02:17 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN answered that the feedback from drivers
indicated being classified as employees would not meet their
expectations regarding the flexibility and freedom they
currently experience as self-employed drivers.
4:03:02 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced invited testimony and opened public
testimony on SB 35.
4:03:22 PM
JOHN FINLEY, Public Policy, Uber Eats, San Francisco,
California, testified by invitation on SB 35 and stated that SB
35 updates current law to affirm that delivery drivers have the
same status as transportation network drivers. Many people use
both Uber Eats and Uber rides, and this legislation ensures the
drivers are treated the same under Alaska law. SB 35 protects
worker independence and provides consistency. Flexibility is the
top reason drivers choose platforms like Uber; the drivers set
their own hours and can work across different delivery apps. He
said in Alaska, the lack of clear law creates legal uncertainty,
which may affect the services many residents and businesses rely
on. He noted that since launching in Anchorage in 2020, Uber
Eats has boosted local economic growth, empowered small
businesses, and made essential items more accessible. Uber Eats
offers more than just food; you can order groceries,
prescriptions, and even use government food benefits for
delivery. Uber Eats help small businesses grow without the cost
of running their own delivery services. According to the latest
report, 85 percent of restaurants said they couldn't offer
delivery without Uber Eats. This helps local shops compete and
stay open, especially during economic shifts. Customers can
order from local favorites just as easily as big chains. Uber
Eats believes delivery platforms strengthen local economies.
4:07:06 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked if all states follow Alaska's Uber Eats
model or is there a model that considers a driver an employee.
4:07:18 PM
MR. FINLEY answered that in the United States delivery drivers
are all considered independent contractors and not employees. He
stated that in some states there are statutes in place that give
drivers certain benefits, Uber Eats calls this an independent
contractor plus contract.
4:08:28 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked what happens when a driver gets injured on
the job.
4:08:48 PM
MR. FINLEY said he will need to verify occupational hazard
insurance information, but Uber Eats provides a million dollars
in liability coverage when a driver is in an accident.
4:09:44 PM
PATRICK FITZGERALD, Political Coordinator, Teamsters Local 959,
Anchorage, Alaska, testified on SB 35 and stated that this
legislation would exempt delivery network companies like
DoorDash and Amazon Eats from providing workers' compensation,
aligning them with transportation companies like Uber and Lyft.
SB 35 reclassifies these workers as independent contractors,
responsible for their own insurance, equipment, and now workers'
compensation. Teamsters Local 959 opposes this because these
workers generate profit for the companies, which hold no
liability. Companies like DoorDash and Amazon Eats have steadily
shifted responsibilities away from themselves while earning
billions. He said these contractors, expected to make around
$58,000 a year, also cover fuel, maintenance, and other costs,
now adding workers' compensation is unfair, especially given
Alaska's risky road conditions. SB 35 gives global companies
another way to avoid responsibility for the people who power
their business. Workers' compensation is a basic standard all
large companies should meet. He said while his company
appreciates Senator Bjorkman's efforts to create consistency,
its his belief that these companies should provide workers'
compensation for their workforce.
4:11:50 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI referenced the definition of a delivery network
company courier in Section 4 [AS 28.23.180] and asked if a FedEx
employees might be considered a courier.
4:12:18 PM
MR. FITZGERALD replied that Teamsters Local 959 represents UPS
not FedEx. He said UPS drivers are considered employees and
therefore are unaffected by SB 35.
4:12:54 PM
JESSICA LYMAN, Government Affairs, Western U.S., Instacart, San
Francisco, California, testified in support of SB 35. She
paraphrased the following written testimony:
[Original punctuation provided.]
On behalf of Instacart, I am writing to thank you for
introducing SB 35 and express our support for the
legislation, which would preserve access to the
independence and flexibility that shoppers on the
Instacart platform and other app-based delivery
workers consistently say they want and need and that
rideshare drivers are already provided within the
State of Alaska.
Instacart is the leading grocery technology company in
North America, and we are proud to offer access to
flexible earning opportunities for the more than 1,600
Alaskans. Shoppers the individuals who pick, pack,
and deliver orders are often caretakers, parents,
students, or retirees seeking alternatives to
traditional employment or ways to supplement other
income. In fact, over 80 percent of shoppers say they
choose to shop on Instacart because of the
independence it provides. Nationally, the vast
majority of people who earn through our platform
including in Alaska shop less than 10 hours a week
on average. They have the freedom to choose when,
where, and for how long they work without any set
schedule, minimum commitment, or obligation.
4:14:17 PM
MS. LYMAN continued with her testimony of SB 35:
In Alaska, Instacart partners with more than 25 retail
banners in more than 130 stores, with almost half of
those locations accepting EBT SNAP. By supporting
these retailers, Instacart has helped add over 100
brick-and-mortar grocery jobs from cashiers to store
managers across Alaska and approximately $5.1
million in additional revenue for Alaska's grocers2.
Moreover, Instacart is happy to serve tens of
thousands across the Frontier state.
Senate Bill 35 meets the needs of a modern and
independent workforce by clarifying that individuals
delivering essential goods on app-based platforms are
properly classified as independent contractors,
provided they meet the same specific criteria applied
to rideshare drivers. This workforce enjoys
unprecedented flexibility and many may choose to
operate on multiple platforms across delivery and
rideshare. This clarity will preserve parity for these
workers whether they are driving on a rideshare
platform or delivering food, prescriptions or other
essential goods and put an end to needless
uncertainty, which can undermine the flexibility and
freedom that shoppers want and deserve.
Thank you again for introducing Senate Bill 35. By
doing so, we can ensure a fair and equitable
environment for the growing app-based workforce across
Alaska. We urge the Legislature to pass this bill.
4:15:38 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked what Instacart does if a driver(shopper)
claims an injury, given that drivers do not qualify for workers'
compensation.
4:15:55 PM
MS. LYMAN answered that Instacart provides occupation accidental
insurance that will cover a shopper if they are injured while
shopping for Instacart.
4:16:29 PM
KARI NORE, Director, External Affairs, Alaska Chamber of
Commerce, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in support of SB 35 and
read the following testimony:
[Original punctuation provided.]
The Alaska Chamber (the Chamber) writes in support of
Senate Bill 35, an act relating to transportation
network and delivery network companies.
The Alaska Chamber is the state's largest statewide
business advocacy organization. Our mission is to
promote a healthy business environment in Alaska. The
Chamber has more than 700 members and represents
businesses of all sizes and industries from across the
state, representing 58,000 Alaskan workers and $4.6
billion in wages.
Delivery network companies provide convenient and
affordable delivery of goods to Alaskans. They also
provide economic opportunity to people who can use
this avenue to garner additional income. It is
estimated that one delivery network company operating
in Alaska has 14,500 Alaskans working on their
platform and 89 percent of those Alaskans work less
than 10 hours per week. This highlights how delivery
network companies provide opportunities for Alaskans
to make a supplemental income on their terms.
SB 35 would establish standards that reflect the
reality of app-based work -- the same standards that
the state already uses for rideshare drivers -- and
provide delivery network companies and delivery
drivers in Alaska with greater regulatory certainty.
Furthermore, this would ensure Alaska stays in line
with developments in other states where marketplace
platform workers across all platforms are treated
uniformly.
Businesses need consistency in the laws and
regulations governing them to thrive in the economy.
SB 35 is a free enterprise and good-for-business bill,
and we encourage swift passage.
4:18:20 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI stated that SB 35 would extend the list of
persons who are not covered by the workers compensation law. He
said there are 13 different job classes that aren't covered by
workers compensation law, food delivery services being one of
them. He asked why the Chamber of Commerce is supportive of SB
35 when typically it wants fairness for everyone and SB 35
wouldn't give drivers workers compensation.
4:19:12 PM
MS. NORE responded that she will have to get back to the
committee with an answer.
4:19:25 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI Senator Gray-Jackson joined the meeting.
4:19:39 PM
ANNA POWELL, Senior Manager, Government Relations, Door Dash,
Seattle, Washington, testified in support of SB 35 and read the
following testimony:
[Original punctuation provided.]
We are a technology company that empowers the local
economy by connecting consumers with their favorite
local businesses. In this state alone, we partner with
more than 700 merchants and more than 14,000 couriers
or, as we call them, "Dashers" who chose to earn
supplemental income by delivering food, groceries, and
other goods throughout their communities. DoorDash
stands with the Dasher community who overwhelmingly
prefer to remain independent contractors and offers
the following comments in support of SB 35.
Dashers and the Importance of Independence and
Flexibility
Alaska Dashers value the independence and flexibility
that dashing provides. A Dasher never needs to commit
to a schedule to be online, is free to decline any
offer for work they are sent, and can leave the
platform for weeks or months at a time and come back
whenever a new need arises.
4:20:49 PM
MS. POWELL continued with her testimony:
Time and time again, Dashers tell us that the top
motivation for using platforms like DoorDash is the
ability to create their own schedule and work as much
or as little as they want. Why? Because most Dashers
do relatively little work on the platform: in 2023, on
average, Dashers in Alaska only spent five hours per
week on delivery, and almost 90% delivered less than
10 hours per week. The vast majority have other
primary sources of income or responsibilities and only
use the platform for supplemental work. In a survey
last year, 82% of Dasher respondents say they have a
full-or part-time job, are self-employed, students,
stay-at-home caregivers or retired.
SB 35 Protects App-Based Delivery Worker Independence
The flexibility and independence that Dashers highly
value is incompatible with traditional employment.
That's why in a survey last year, more than 90% of
Dasher respondents said they preferred to remain
independent contractors.
SB 35 would protect the independence of Dashers and
other app-based delivery workers. Many existing worker
classification standards were not created with app-
based work and workers in mind. SB 35 would establish
a classification test for app-based delivery workers
that recognizes the unique nature of this work. This
standard is already used in Alaska for rideshare
drivers and is similar to standards for app-based
workers that have been adopted in numerous states
including Arizona, California, Florida, Indiana, Iowa,
Kentucky, Tennessee, and Utah.
DoorDash strongly supports SB 35 that would protect
the flexibility this type of work provides to the
thousands of Alaskan Dashers who choose it.
4:23:00 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI closed public testimony on SB 35.
4:23:21 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN reiterated that SB 35 aims to treat delivery
network companies the same as transportation network companies,
allowing people to take on delivery work freely without the
added restrictions on being classified as employees.
4:23:53 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 35 in committee.
SB 34-REPEAL 90 DAY SESSION LIMIT
4:23:58 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 34
"An Act relating to the duration of a regular session of the
legislature."
4:24:27 PM
SENATOR CATHY GIESSEL, District E, Alaska State Legislature,
Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of SB 34. She noted that SB 34 repeals a
citizens initiative passed in 2006 and discussed the following
points regarding the 90 day session limit:
[Original punctuation provided.]
• Passed to limit legislative sessions to 90 days
to promote efficiency and cost savings.
• Intended to streamline the legislative process
and reduce extended sessions.
• Legislature has only met the 90-day limit three
times since its passage.
• Two of these instances were in the early years
after adoption.
• The third was during the COVID-19 pandemic
(2020)an exceptional circumstance.
• The Legislature has frequently extended sessions
beyond the 121-day constitutional limit.
• More extended and special sessions raise costs
rather than reducing them.
• Managing natural resources, budgeting, and major
policies demand thorough discussion and debate.
• As budget challenges grow with inflation and lack
of revenue, more discussion is needed for
balancing the budget
4:26:10 PM
SENATOR GIESSEL continued:
• In 2020, the Legislature met for 69 days due to
pandemic restrictions.
• However, in 2021, the Legislature was in session
for 217 days to compensate for lost time.
• Demonstrates that artificial time constraints do
not eliminate legislative needs.
• The public expects sessions to conclude within 90
days.
• The reality of extended sessions leads to public
frustration.
• The 90-day rule has created more confusion than
efficiency.
• Fails to ensure efficiency or cost savings as
originally intended.
• Forces unnecessary special sessions that increase
legislative workload.
• Complex governance requires flexibility, not
rigid time constraints.
4:28:09 PM
PAIGE BROWN, Staff, Senator Cathy Giessel, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided the sectional analysis for
SB 34:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Sectional Analysis
"An Act relating to the duration of a regular session
of the legislature."
Section 1. Repeals AS 24.05.150(b). This sections
repeals the statute requiring the legislature to
adjourn from a regular session within 90 consecutive
calendar days, including the day the legislature first
convenes in that regular session.
4:28:47 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 34.
4:29:03 PM
ED MARTIN, representing self, Kenai, Alaska, testified in
opposition to SB 34 and stated that the main flaw in SB 34 is
ignoring art. III, sec. 2, Constitution of the State of Alaska,
"all political power is inherent in the people. He said the
people voted for a 90-day session, and everything should be
accomplished in that time period, if the focus stayed on
legislative priorities like budgets, appointments, and judges,
not symbolic bills.
4:31:49 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI closed public testimony on SB 34.
4:32:29 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 34 in committee.
SB 37-STRATEGIC PLANS FOR STATE AGENCIES
4:32:33 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 37
"An Act relating to the Executive Budget Act; relating to
strategic plans, mission statements, performance plans, and
financial plans for executive branch agencies; and providing for
an effective date."
4:32:55 PM
SENATOR JAMES KAUFMAN, District F, Alaska State Legislature,
Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of SB 37. He said SB 37 aims to create a
better management framework for state agencies through improved
planning and execution. There hasn't been much change from
similar legislation from past sessions. He said the core issue
is that Alaska often ranks near the bottom in state agency
performance metrics. This proposal introduces four-year
strategic operating plans, updated every two years, to guide
annual funding and agency discussions. The goal is to shift from
reactive problem-solving to long-term improvement. SB 37 offers
a structure to help agencies move toward better performance. He
stated that the process is simple: the governor sets priorities,
agencies submit their four-year plans, and budgets are built
around those plans.
4:35:29 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked how the legislature decides on the best
metrics to use to figure out if the state agency is doing well
or not.
4:35:51 PM
SENATOR KAUFMAN responded that the most effective way to select
the best metrics is to rely on the individual performing the
work, as they possess the necessary understanding to identify
the appropriate metrics. He said instead of locking performance
standards into statute, the legislature should set goals, and
agencies should figure out how to achieve them. This leads to
plans and metrics being revealed and will guide annual funding
discussions.
4:37:14 PM
EMMA TORKELSON, Staff, Senator James Kaufman, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided a summary of the sectional
analysis for SB 37:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Sectional Analysis for SB 37 Bill Version A
An Act relating to the Executive Budget Act; relating
to strategic plans, mission statements, performance
plans, and financial plans for executive branch
agencies; and providing for an effective date.
Section 1: Is a conforming change to reference the new
planning structure created later in the bill.
Section 2: Are several language changes to align
earlier sections of the Executive Budget Act to the
new sections created later in the bill.
Section 3 & 4: Makes agencies responsible for setting
their mission statements and performance measures
(rather than the legislature). Adds a reference to the
plan structure created later in the bill. It further
directs the legislature to use the mission statements
and performance measurements determine if the agencies
goals are being achieved.
We believe providing agencies with the ability to
write and communicate both will increase the
likelihood that agencies will make progress toward
their goals.
4:38:26 PM
MS. TORKELSON continued with the sectional analysis:
Section 5: Updates language to reference strategic
plans created later in the bill.
Section 6: Makes changes to clarify that the
legislature is to refer to strategic plans, mission
statements, and financial plans in our budgeting
process.
Section 7: Makes changes to clarify that each state
entity shall:
1.Allocate resources to implement multi-year
plans.
2.Express program results in measurable terms
3.Measure progress towards multi-year plans and
other results
4.Promote activities consistent with multi-year
plans that reduce future costs.
5.Plan for both the short- and long-term
6.Require accountability at all levels for
meeting multi-year plans.
7.Adds a reference to strategic planning.
8.Requires quarterly reporting to OMB on
progress towards the performance plan.
Section 8: Defines "state entity" as all executive
branch departments and the university of Alaska.
Section 9: Directs the Governor's to review, revise
(if he or she would like to) and approve mission
statements, strategic plans, performance and financial
plans. It further directs the governor to use them to
execute the law and achieve the desired goals.
Section 10: Is a conforming change to reference the
new planning structure created by SB 37
4:40:09 PM
MS. TORKELSON continued with the sectional analysis:
Section 11: Adds the new plans created later in the
bill to the list of things OMB is responsible for. It
further clarifies OMB's role in the hierarchy of
planning and reporting.
Section 12: Repeals and Reenacts AS 37.07.050.
1.It requires each executive branch department
and the University of Alaska to develop 4-
year strategic plans that are consistent with
the agency's authority and the governor's
statewide priorities. These plans must be
updated and submitted to OMB at the beginning
of each gubernatorial term and updated at
least once every two years.
2.It outlines what needs to be in the plans,
OMB's role in the creation of the plan, what
happens if an agency doesn't submit a plan,
and clarifies that all of these plans are
public information.
Section 13: creates a new section for Boards and
Commissions. We did not feel it was appropriate to
have every board and commission create the same level
of strategic plans as each department, so this section
outlines what information will be required from Boards
and Commissions each year.
Section 14: Amends the current section to require the
governor to identify three to five statewide
priorities to guide each agency's four-year strategic
plan and their annual plans.
Section 15: Requires the governor to present the
strategic plans and mission statements to the
legislature during his regular budget address to a
joint session.
Section 16: Adds reference to the new plans created in
Section 12 and 13 to the list that the legislature
reviews as part of the budget process.
Section 17: Adds a reference to the new plans created
in Section 12 and 13 and removes old language.
4:42:25 PM
MS. TORKELSON continued with the sectional analysis:
Section 18: Clarifies that salary increases must be
done in accordance with the plans.
Section 19: Requires each agency to develop (with
employee participation) an annual performance and
financial plan consistent with the 4 year strategic
plan and submit them to the legislature with the
budget by December 15.
Further outlines what should be included in the
performance plan and the financial plan, outlines
OMB's role, what happens if an agency doesn't prepare
a plan, and clarifies that the plans are public
information.
Section 20: Defines the terms "goal," "objective,
"performance measure," and "strategic plan."
Section 21: Is a conforming change to include a
reference to the new Boards and Commissions planning
requirements created in section 13.
Section 22: Is a conforming change to remove a
reference to the old method of planning.
Section 23: Sets a July 1, 2025, effective date.
4:44:22 PM
SENATOR KAUFMAN stated that his office has worked with past and
present Office of Management and Budgeting (OMB) directors to
refine and realign existing efforts, not create something
entirely new. SB 37 builds on work already being done, modeled
after successful practices from the federal government and other
states, but tailored to Alaska's needs. The goal is to move
beyond one-year budget cycles and work with a clear, long-term
strategic vision to guide decisions and improve outcomes year
after year.
4:46:09 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI asked how the legislature ensures the governor
and OMB directors comply with the reporting and requests that
are defined in the legislation.
4:46:20 PM
SENATOR KAUFMAN answered that the legislature holds the power of
the purse, and the strength of SB 37 is that budget discussions
will be tied to a clear, public multi-year plan. If agencies
fall short of their stated goals, it will be much harder to
justify because the expectations and progress will be
transparent. He said this framework ensures more accountability
and long-term focus on budgeting decisions.
4:47:24 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 37.
4:47:41 PM
ED MARTIN, representing self, Kenai, Alaska, testified in
support of SB 37 and stated he appreciates the thought Senator
Kaufman put into the bill, it's well-crafted and promising. He
said he is concerned about the fiscal note; implementing it will
require time, staff, and possibly new programs, especially in
already stretched departments. He said he hopes and hopes for a
clear, honest assessment of the true costs involved.
4:50:05 PM
SENATOR KAUFMAN responded that he has worked with several OMB
directors who confirmed SB 37 is more a realignment of current
processes than a new burden. Past legislatures did not receive a
fiscal note for this reason, and once the legislation is
understood, it will be clear that it builds on existing efforts
to produce better results. He said SB 37 can be integrated into
what the executive branch already does.
4:51:12 PM
CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 37 in committee.
4:52:16 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Kawasaki adjourned the Senate State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting at 4:52 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 35 Version A.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Sponsor Statement Ver. A.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Sectional Analysis Ver. A.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Uber Letter of Support 2.4.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Instacart Letter of Support 1.31.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Doordash Letter of Support 2.6.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 34, Version A.pdf |
SFIN 5/7/2025 9:00:00 AM SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 34 |
| SB 34 Sponsor Statement.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 34 |
| SB 34 Sectional Analysis.pdf |
SFIN 5/7/2025 9:00:00 AM SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 34 |
| SB 34 Supporting Document.pdf |
SFIN 5/7/2025 9:00:00 AM SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 34 |
| SB 37 Version A 2.13.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 37 Sponsor Statement version A 2.13.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 37 Fiscal Note.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 37 Supporting Document 2.13.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 35.ltr oppose.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB34-LEG-SESS-03-18-2025.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 34 |
| SB 35 Fiscal Note.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 37 Sectional Analysis version A 2.18.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 37 AFP ltr of support.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 37 Ltr of concerns.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 37 |
| SB 35 Ltr of opposition 3.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Ltr of support and opposition.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| atr_support sb35.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB35 Delivery Network Co Support Letter SSTA 3.18.25.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |
| SB 35 Ltrs of support.pdf |
SSTA 3/18/2025 3:30:00 PM |
SB 35 |