Juneau -- The Alaska Senate Friday unanimously approved House Bill 22, which requires that tax assessors gain clear permission from property owners before entering private dwellings. HB 22, sponsored by Representative Scott Ogan (R-Palmer), passed 17-0.

"This bill does not prevent public officials from doing their duty. Instead it requires tax assessors to respect private property rights," said Ogan. "This bill stems from an incident in my district, and while those involved differ as to the exact circumstances, it is clear our statutes could and should be strengthened to protect due process and our constitutional rights to privacy."

Under House Bill 22, if permission cannot be obtained, a court order will still allow entry.

Although the approval vote for HB 22 was unanimous, Notice of Reconsideration has been filed, delaying final passage until the next session of the Senate.