The bill amends the Legislative Ethics Act in Alaska, focusing on legislative subpoenas, the jurisdiction of the ombudsman, and the responsibilities of the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics. It clarifies that the legislative council, the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee, and the Select Committee on Legislative Ethics are exempt from certain provisions. The definition of "agency" is expanded to include public members and employees of the Select Committee, and new protections for whistleblowers reporting unethical conduct are established. Additionally, the bill emphasizes transparency in the acceptance and disclosure of gifts valued at $250 or more, and introduces requirements for the committee to acknowledge complaints and provide accessible filing forms.

Further amendments streamline the complaint handling process, allowing for clarification from complainants or subjects without obligation. The committee is empowered to investigate complaints, issue recommendations, and formalize charges while maintaining confidentiality for certain deliberations. New procedures are established for handling complaints against candidates during campaign periods, ensuring candidates are notified and their rights protected. The bill also allows the committee to refer evidence of criminal activity to law enforcement and clarifies the definition of "public member." Overall, these changes aim to enhance ethical standards, accountability, and the integrity of the electoral process in Alaska.

Statutes affected:
HB0298A, AM HB 298, introduced 02/09/2026: 24.25.010, 24.55.330, 24.60.030, 24.60.080, 24.60.075, 25.05.261, 24.05.190, 24.60.035, 24.60.170, 24.60.130, 24.10.130, 39.20.180, 24.60.150, 24.60.160, 24.60.172, 24.60.975, 24.60.990