The bill amends the membership requirements for the Legislative Council and the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee in Alaska. For the Legislative Council, the new language specifies that the membership from each house must include at least one member from the minority, replacing the previous requirement for representation from each of the two major political parties. Similarly, the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee's composition is updated to include the chairs of the finance committees and allows for the chairs to opt out of serving on the committee, with provisions for appointing replacements. The requirement for minority representation is also included in this committee's membership.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that defines "minority" as a group of members who have organized and elected a minority leader, constituting at least 25 percent of the total house membership. This definition aims to clarify the criteria for minority representation within the legislative bodies. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the inclusivity of minority voices in Alaska's legislative processes.
Statutes affected: SB0160A, AM SB 160, introduced 04/09/2025: 24.20.020, 24.20.161