The resolution urges Governor Dunleavy and the Department of Administration to release all copies of the statewide salary study, which is crucial for addressing the ongoing recruitment and retention crisis among public employees in Alaska. With an average vacancy rate of 16% for state jobs and some divisions experiencing even higher rates, the need for updated salary data is pressing. The last salary study was conducted in 2009, and the Alaska State Legislature has allocated $1,000,000 for a new study expected to be completed by July 2024. However, delays and contract amendments have pushed the expected release date to March 31, 2025, raising concerns about the impact on collective bargaining agreements due by March 21, 2025.

The resolution highlights the importance of the salary study in informing wage and compensation decisions for public sector employees, which is essential for ensuring fair and competitive salaries. Without access to the study during the collective bargaining process, there is a risk that public sector salaries will stagnate, exacerbating the recruitment and retention challenges faced by the state. The resolution calls for the immediate release of all drafts and copies of the salary study to facilitate informed decision-making and support the state's workforce.