Governor Signs Interior Legislators' Bills

Press Release

Governor Sean Parnell today signed a package of bills sponsored by members of the Interior delegation including Senate Bill 52, Senate Bill 85, House Bill 146 and House Bill 87.

"These are commonsense pieces of legislation that will benefit all Alaskans," Governor Parnell said. "I applaud members of the Interior delegation for their work to expand opportunity and provide efficiencies for Alaskans."

SB 52, sponsored by Senator John Coghill, provides a regulatory plan for the sale of insurance for portable electronic devices such as cell phones and tablets. In this fast-growing market, the sale of insurance to cover damage to these products has also increased, and the clear regulatory framework this bill provides will benefit insurers, vendors and consumers.

SB 85, sponsored by Senator Click Bishop, permits the issuance of experimental vehicle plates to manufacturers or distributors for 12-month periods at a time, with a maximum renewal period of 36 months. Fairbanks and other areas of Interior Alaska are often used as sites for testing vehicles in a cold weather climate and support the economy of the Interior throughout the winter season.

HB 146, sponsored by Representative Pete Higgins, permits the use of a cell phone or personal mobile device when presenting proof of automobile insurance. This bill modernizes the way in which Alaskans may display vehicle insurance.

Governor Parnell also signed HB 87, legislation sponsored by Representative Pete Higgins, increasing funding for the Special Education Service Agency (SESA), and extending it through June 30, 2021. Established in 1986 by the Alaska Legislature, the SESA assists Alaska school districts in serving students with special needs. The agency is governed by the Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education.

Source