An Act relating to general relief and burial assistance; and providing for an effective date.

HB 22 ensures Alaskans who lose federal medical or cash assistance solely because of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) can receive state-funded alternatives. It amends eligibility rules so individuals denied federal medical aid (under Social Security Act Title XIX) due to PFD income can get state medical assistance for up to four months at the same level they would have received federally. Similarly, those denied cash assistance because PFD counts as income under federal rules qualify for state cash aid for up to four months at the same federal benefit level. The bill directly affects PFD recipients who would otherwise be ineligible for state relief programs due to federal income calculations.