Maddy summarySB 219 requires Alaska's Department of Environmental Conservation to annually test all public water systems for PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and test immediately if contamination occurs. If PFAS levels exceed specified limits - such as 4 parts per trillion for PFOA or PFOS - the department must provide free alternative drinking water to affected residents. The bill establishes liability: entities that negligently release PFAS must cover testing and water replacement costs, while manufacturers may be liable if users followed all regulations. It sets clear, science-based contamination thresholds (e.g., 10 parts per trillion for certain chemicals) and defines a "hazard index" for mixed contaminants. This directly affects public water systems, residents in contaminated areas, and entities handling PFAS-containing products.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 129 requires Alaska state agencies to pay contractors, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native organizations within 30 calendar days after receiving a valid payment request for contracts, grants, or reimbursement agreements. If payments are delayed, agencies must pay interest at the state rate starting on the 31st day (or 21st day for federal-funded grants). The bill also mandates written notices within 8 working days if payments are withheld due to performance issues, detailing required corrections. These provisions apply to most state-funded contracts and grants but exclude public construction projects and retainage. The law aims to ensure timely payments to organizations relying on state funding for operations.
Maddy summarySB 236 creates a veteran sentencing program in Alaska for eligible veterans charged with certain misdemeanors or class C felonies. It requires police to ask about veteran status at arrest and courts to inform defendants about the program at their first court appearance. Veterans with military-related mental or physical health issues that contributed to their offense may qualify for this program, allowing courts to substitute probation, treatment, or community service for standard sentencing. The bill amends criminal procedure rules to implement these changes, directly affecting veterans in the state's justice system who meet the eligibility criteria.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all Alaska public school districts to create and implement K-12 educational programs approved by the state department. The programs must include instruction on the history and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the U.S., as well as materials showcasing their cultural and economic diversity. School districts must develop these programs by the specified timeline, with the state department overseeing approval. The bill directly affects every K-12 student and school district in Alaska.
Maddy summaryHB 57 sets maximum classroom sizes for Alaska public schools, requiring districts to maintain an average of no more than 23 students per class for grades K-6 and 30 for grades 7-12, excluding certain specialized classes. It mandates annual reporting on class sizes, student performance data (including reading proficiency for early grades), and high school graduate outcomes like career and postsecondary education tracking. The bill also updates procedures for charter school applications and requires school boards to establish clear application processes for new charter schools. These provisions directly affect all public school districts, students, and educators across Alaska.
Maddy summaryHB 35 restricts electronic device use for prisoners in Alaska state correctional facilities. It prohibits most personal devices like computers, tablets, and VCRs, allowing only approved uses for rehabilitation, education, legal research, or health care. The bill also limits access to certain media (e.g., R-rated movies), specific equipment (like free weights), and restricts food spending comparisons to military personnel. It directly affects incarcerated individuals in state facilities and aims to enhance security by controlling prohibited items and activities. The law became effective November 5, 2025.
Maddy summaryHouse Joint Resolution 4 is a symbolic resolution from the Alaska Legislature urging the President, U.S. Secretary of the Interior, and the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to maintain "Denali" as the official name for North America's tallest mountain. It states that Denali is the traditional Koyukon Athabaskan name, has been Alaska's official name since 1975, and was adopted by the U.S. in 2015, rejecting a return to "Mount McKinley." The resolution argues that changing the name would be disrespectful to Alaska Natives, confuse tourism (as Denali is widely recognized), and lacks historical connection to President McKinley, who never visited the mountain. This resolution does not change the name but formally requests federal officials continue using "Denali."
Maddy summaryHJR 15 is a non-binding legislative resolution urging Alaska agencies and communities to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season. It directs the Governor, Department of Natural Resources (forestry/fire division), public safety agencies, municipalities, and the Alaska congressional delegation to review wildfire response plans, improve water access for firefighting, inspect roads for evacuation routes, and expand public education programs like Firewise USA and Ready, Set, Go! The resolution specifically targets high-risk areas including Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Kenai, where climate-driven dry conditions and new wildfire risks require proactive measures. It emphasizes concrete steps like pre-season drills, fuel reduction, and enhanced early detection systems to reduce response costs and community vulnerability.
Maddy summaryThis Alaska Senate resolution (SR 3) urges the U.S. Congress to change two specific policies affecting American Samoans. Currently, American Samoans are U.S. nationals but not citizens (unlike residents of other U.S. territories), which prevents them from serving as commissioned military officers or voting in federal elections. The resolution requests that Congress grant them the right to vote in federal elections and remove barriers to serving as commissioned officers in the U.S. military. It highlights American Samoans' high military enlistment rates, their obligation to register for the draft, and their contributions to U.S. society.
Maddy summaryHB 121 updates Alaska's accounting licensing requirements, primarily requiring accountants to complete 150 semester hours of education (including a bachelor's degree with accounting focus) and two years of experience. It also establishes a practice privilege for accountants licensed in other states that meet equivalent standards (150 hours, CPA exam, one year experience). The bill affects certified public accountants, accounting firms, and out-of-state practitioners seeking to practice in Alaska under reciprocity. Key provisions clarify permit renewals, continuing education requirements, and simplify documentation for out-of-state accountants engaging in services via mail, phone, or electronic means.