Ogan's Straight Talk

Legislative Update for April 9, 1997

Dear Neighbor,

I have introduced HB 232, a measure which essentially provides for a "Separation of Powers" within State of Alaska departments. The goal of HB 232 is, "To deliver high quality adjudication in a timely , cost efficient manner with respect for the dignity of the individual and their due process rights . . ."

The bill removes administrative appeals officers from the agencies who now employ them. It is just common sense to separate those who sit in judgement at hearings from those who administer the regulations. When a judge works for the prosecutor, no matter how impartial they may be, doubt in a fair hearing is created.

Under the present organization, citizens must frequently appeal their cases to the very board that made the administrative decision in the first place. In other cases rules are written so government decisions drag on indefinitely. Bottomline is, most people do not have the resources to exhaust all their possible remedies.

HB 232 is based on a model act which is hailed as the best in the United States. It is crafted on the state of Maryland's hearing system which handles over 50,000 appeals per year. I have also pulled certain components from Colorado's Central Hearing Office which has a 97% approval rating. In that state worker's compensation costs have come down by about 22% and case backlog has been reduced by 95%.

I am committed to craft the best structure possible to assure truly impartial public hearings. To do this I have added a purpose section in HB 232 which guarantees due process rights to all parties involved in administrative appeals.

Please lend your support to HB 232 if you agree that its passage will result in impartial and efficient hearings which will support your due process.

Thank you,

Palmer Chamber of Commerce

May 7, 1997, Wednesday, 12:00 p.m.

Palmer Chamber of Commerce will host a teleconference for Representative Ogan and Senator Green to present legislative updates during Chamber's monthly open meeting luncheons. Scott and Lyda will give you a session update and answer your questions about issues or bills before the legislature.

Ogan's Current Legislation

HB 25, Fish & Game: Licenses & Residency was moved out of Senate Resources to Rules

HB 26, Big Game Tags for Wolves, Senate Finance

HB 74, "No Frills" Prison Act, House Judiciary then Finance

HB 151, Big Game Guides & Registration Areas, House rules

HB 185,Same Day Wolf Hunt Airborne, House Resources

HB 224, Employment of Prisoners, House Community and Regional Affairs

HB 232, Independent Div.of Admin. Hearings, House Judiciary

HB 246, George W. Palmer Memorial Bridge, House Transportation

HJR 20, Oppose Dept. of Interior RS2477 Policy, House Rules