This bill introduces a new section, AS 09.45.950, to the Alaska Statutes, which outlines the process for removing unlawful occupants from residential real property. It allows property owners or their agents to request the removal of individuals unlawfully occupying a dwelling unit, provided certain conditions are met, such as the absence of a rental agreement and no pending litigation. The request must be made under oath and includes specific declarations regarding the situation. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to criminal trespass, forgery, and deceptive business practices, including changes to the definitions and penalties associated with these offenses.

Key amendments include the classification of criminal trespass as a class A misdemeanor or a class B felony depending on the damages caused, the inclusion of rental agreements in the definition of forgery, and the expansion of deceptive business practices to include selling or leasing properties without the right to do so. The bill also modifies the Alaska Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rule 85(a), to streamline eviction processes and ensure timely hearings. Furthermore, it establishes that individuals wrongfully removed from a dwelling may recover full reasonable attorney fees, contingent upon the approval of a related amendment to Rule 82.

Statutes affected:
HB0159A, AM HB 159, introduced 03/26/2025: 09.45.060, 09.45.160, 09.45.950, 11.56.200, 34.03.210, 34.03.360, 11.46.320, 11.46.505, 11.46.510, 11.46.710