The proposed bill establishes the Welcoming Alaska Office, which will be responsible for providing support and resources to new immigrants and newcomers in the state. This office will offer employment information, referrals to services, and strategies to reduce barriers to employment. It will also coordinate with various stakeholders, including state agencies and local governments, to enhance the economic and social integration of new immigrants. Additionally, the bill creates the Welcoming Alaska Advisory Committee to assist the office in developing policies and monitoring state agency efforts to include new immigrants in state programs.

Furthermore, the bill includes the establishment of the Welcoming Alaska Center, which will provide virtual and in-person assistance, including language instruction and employment services. The bill repeals the existing Office of Citizenship Assistance and adds the executive director of the Welcoming Alaska Office to the list of partially exempt service positions. A study will also be conducted to assess immigration opportunities in the state, with a report due by July 1, 2027. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
HB0188A, AM HB 188, introduced 04/11/2025: 25.05.134, 23.05.132, 23.05.133, 39.20.180, 23.05.134, 23.05.135, 23.05.131, 39.25.120, 23.05.125