CHAIRMAN RICK HALFORD called the Senate Rules Committee meeting to order at 1:07 p.m. and opened the public hearing on HB 88 am (MAY 1 IS FAMILY DAY/MAY IS FAMILY MONTH). There was a proposed SCS HB 88(RLS) before the committee for its consideration. Number 015 REPRESENTATIVE CON BUNDE, prime sponsor of HB 88, explained the legislation establishes the importance of the family in our society. Currently, there is an effort going on to establish May 1 as a nationwide day of recognition, and in order to do that, each state must adopt similar legislation. Representative Bunde outlined the following changes made to the House version of the bill and incorporated into the Senate Rules SCS: (1) On page 1, lines 7-12 language was deleted which may reflect the status of families and children in Alaska today, but may not be accurate in the future; (2) On page 2, line 8, the word "early" was deleted to clarify that spring in Alaska is not always early; (3) On page 2, line 17, the language was changed to reflect the rights and responsibilities of both the children and the parents; and (4) On page 2, lines 20-21, the requirement to make an annual report to the legislature was deleted. Number 095 SENATOR ZHAROFF moved that SCS HB 88(RLS) be adopted. Hearing no objection, it was so ordered. Number 125 SENATOR LITTLE expressed her hope that not only will this bill be passed, but that it will be followed up with actual funding which will ensure aid to families in need. Number 137 There being no other witnesses present to testify on SCS HB 88(RLS), Chairman Halford closed the public hearing. Number 139 SENATOR LITTLE moved that SCS HB 88(RLS) be passed out of committee with individual recommendations. Hearing no objection, it was so ordered. Number 142 SENATOR JACKO moved and asked unanimous consent that HB 88 am be approved for calendaring at the Chair's discretion. Hearing no objection, it was so ordered.