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 types of disasters and mandates the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to develop a state emergency plan that identifies potential slow onset disasters and outlines mitigation measures. The bill also emphasizes the inclusion of climate scientists in disaster planning and response efforts, ensuring that the state's approach is informed by relevant expertise.

In addition to addressing environmental challenges, the bill strengthens the state's response to cyber threats by introducing a new definition of "serious cyber incident," which pertains to incidents affecting state-owned information systems and data. It requires that any cyber attack or serious incident impacting critical infrastructure be certified by the commissioner of administration or their designee to the governor, based on credible information regarding potential impacts. The bill also defines "slow onset disaster" to encompass environmental issues like drought and rising sea levels, recognizing their gradual yet significant effects on public health and infrastructure. Overall, the legislation aims to bolster the state's response capabilities for both cyber incidents and environmental disasters.

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