This bill introduces a new section to Alaska law regarding the removal of unlawful occupants from residential properties. 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 between the owner and the occupant. The request must be made under oath and includes specific declarations about the situation. Additionally, the bill outlines the process for peace officers to verify the request and serve notice to the occupant, as well as the owner's rights regarding the removal of personal property.

The bill also amends existing laws related to criminal trespass, forgery, and deceptive business practices. It reclassifies certain offenses, such as elevating criminal trespass to a class B felony under specific circumstances, and expands the definition of forgery to include rental agreements. Furthermore, it introduces new provisions for deceptive business practices, including penalties for selling or leasing properties without the right to do so. The bill also amends the Alaska Rules of Civil Procedure to streamline eviction processes and allows for the recovery of attorney fees for occupants wrongfully removed from their homes.

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