The bill amends the Alaska Disaster Act to enhance the state's preparedness for slow onset disasters, which are increasingly relevant due to climate change. It introduces a new purpose within the disaster management framework aimed at mitigating these disasters and emphasizes the inclusion of climate scientists in planning and response efforts. The Alaska division of homeland security and emergency management is tasked with identifying potential slow onset disasters and developing mitigation strategies. Additionally, the commission overseeing disaster management will expand to include nine public members with expertise in climatology or slow onset disasters, and local emergency planning committees are required to assess their districts' vulnerability to such disasters and create corresponding mitigation plans.

Moreover, the bill enhances the state's response to cyber threats by defining "serious cyber incident" and establishing criteria for certifying imminent cyber threats related to critical infrastructure. It also introduces a definition for "slow onset disaster," which includes environmental challenges like drought and rising sea levels, highlighting their gradual emergence and significant impacts. These legislative updates aim to ensure comprehensive disaster preparedness and response strategies for both traditional and slow onset disasters, as well as cyber incidents.

Statutes affected:
SB0195A, AM SB 195, introduced 05/16/2025: 26.23.010, 26.23.040, 26.23.073, U.S.C, 26.23.075, 26.23.050, 26.23.071, 26.23.070, 26.23.060, 26.23.900, 26.20.040, 26.20.200