This bill amends various sections of Alaska law to establish new provisions regarding permanent fund dividends (PFDs) for individuals who owe child support. A key insertion is the addition of a new subsection in AS 11.51.120, which states that PFDs claimed by or distributed to individuals owed child support will be counted as child support payments. Additionally, the bill allows individuals owed child support to apply for and claim a PFD on behalf of the individual owing the support, provided that the latter has a past due obligation and has not applied for a dividend that year. The Department of Revenue is also mandated to file applications on behalf of individuals in arrears if they have not done so by March 31 each year.

Further amendments include provisions that exempt PFDs received under these new rules from being subject to garnishment or claims by various state departments, ensuring that these funds are protected for the intended recipients. The bill also specifies that individuals receiving PFDs through these applications cannot make contributions from those dividends. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the process for individuals owed child support to access their PFDs while ensuring that these funds are utilized appropriately and protected from debt collection.

Statutes affected:
SB0012A, AM SB 12, introduced 01/10/2025: 11.51.120, 43.23.005, 25.27.020, 25.27.170, 25.27.025, 23.20.401, 25.27.165, 25.27.166, U.S.C, 25.27.060, 25.27.063, 47.07.025, 25.27.160, 25.27.220, 43.23.015, 43.23.130, 43.23.140, 43.23.150, 43.23.160, 43.23.170, 43.23.180, 43.23.190, 43.23.230