This bill amends existing laws related to obstruction in public places in Alaska, introducing new penalties and civil liabilities for individuals who obstruct public passage. A new subsection is added to AS 02.20.050, establishing that a person who violates this section can be charged with a class C felony if their actions create a substantial risk of physical injury or interfere with emergency responses, or a class A misdemeanor for lesser offenses. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section under AS 09.65, which imposes strict civil liability for obstructing public places, with specified damages ranging from $10,000 for nominal damages to $500,000 for death.

Further amendments include the addition of a new section, AS 11.61.155, defining the crime of obstruction of a public place and outlining specific actions that constitute this offense, along with defenses and exceptions. The bill also modifies AS 38.05.128(f) to align with the new felony and misdemeanor classifications for obstruction-related offenses. The repeal of AS 11.61.150 and AS 28.35.140(a) is included, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
HB0071A, AM HB 71, introduced 01/27/2025: 02.20.050, 02.20.060, 11.61.155, 38.05.128, 11.61.150, 28.35.140