Alaska House Passes Bipartisan Election Bill

0:00Alaska's House of Representatives passed a bipartisan elections bill on Monday to modernize voting and clean up voter roles. Senate Bill 64, clear by a 23-to-16 vote, with some Republicans joining Democrats in support. Key changes include a new ballot tracking system, paid postage for absentee ballots, and steps for quicker results. The bill targets outdated voter roles, where Alaska has more registered voters than eligible citizens. Election officials would mail notices to people with ties to other states, like driver's licenses, or jury duty there. Voters give 45 days to confirm residency, or risk inactive status for 28 months. Lawmakers from both parties praise the effort as a decade-long push to handle Alaska's tough geography, weather, and vast distances. Supporters address worries about military voters overseas, noting federal rules keep them on masterlists for eight years. It also adds tribal ID for voting, and a rural liaison for small communities. House tweaks mean the bill heads back to the Senate for a vote on Wednesday.

1:01If Governor Mike Dunlavy signs it, voter roll reviews start right away, while tracking and ballot fixes follow the August primary. These reforms promise more transparency and access as national fights brew. From Supreme Court ballot deadlines to citizenship-proof debates that could hit Alaska hard. Anchorage news today, powered by AI bringing you what matters. I'm Cory with the story.