This bill amends Alaska's permanent fund dividend laws to allow individuals whose convictions have been vacated, reversed, or dismissed to become eligible for the dividend for each year they were previously ineligible due to their conviction. Specifically, it introduces new subsections to AS 43.23.005, stating that individuals can receive the dividend if their conviction is vacated or reversed and the charges are dismissed (not part of a plea agreement) or if they are retried and found not guilty. To qualify, these individuals must apply for the dividend within one year of the dismissal or not guilty finding.

Additionally, the bill modifies AS 43.23.025(a) to include the new eligibility criteria in the calculation of the total amount available for dividend payments. It also establishes a transition provision allowing individuals whose convictions were dismissed or reversed before the bill's effective date to apply for the dividend within one year of the bill's enactment, despite the standard application deadline. This change aims to ensure that those wrongfully convicted can access the benefits of the permanent fund dividend retroactively.

Statutes affected:
SB0167A, AM SB 167, introduced 04/10/2025: 43.23.005, 43.23.025, 37.13.145, 43.23.045, 43.23.021, 43.23.055, 43.23.240
SB0167B, AM CSSB 167(STA), introduced 05/02/2025: 43.23.005, 43.23.025, 37.13.145, 43.23.045, 43.23.021, 43.23.055, 43.23.240