The bill proposes an amendment to the Alaska Workers' Compensation Act, specifically to AS 23.30.230(a), to exempt members of agricultural cooperatives from coverage under this chapter. The amendment introduces a new category of individuals who are not covered, specifically stating that "a person who is a member of an agricultural cooperative" is excluded from the Act. The bill further defines "agricultural cooperative" as an organization that either markets agricultural products for its members or purchases agricultural supplies and equipment for its members at cost.

In addition to this new insertion, the bill also deletes a previous provision that included independent contractors as individuals not covered by the Workers' Compensation Act. This change reflects a shift in the legislative approach to defining who qualifies for exemption from workers' compensation, specifically recognizing the unique role of agricultural cooperatives in the state's economy.

Statutes affected:
HB0345A, AM HB 345, introduced 02/23/2026: 23.30.230