This bill amends Alaska's law regarding allowable absences for individuals seeking eligibility for a permanent fund dividend. It expands the list of acceptable reasons for being absent from the state during the qualifying year, which now includes new provisions for individuals serving as pilots or required flight crew members for U.S. airlines, as well as flight attendants holding a proficiency certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration. Additionally, the bill introduces a new category for absences consistent with an individual's intent to remain a state resident, with specific limits on the duration of such absences.

The bill also updates the residency requirement for claiming allowable absences, stipulating that individuals must have been residents of Alaska for at least six consecutive months before leaving the state. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2027. Overall, the amendments aim to provide greater flexibility for residents who are temporarily absent from Alaska while still maintaining their eligibility for the permanent fund dividend.

Statutes affected:
HB0295A, AM HB 295, introduced 02/06/2026: 43.23.008
HB0295B, AM CSHB 295(STA), introduced 03/25/2026: 43.23.008