Proposing amendments to the Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature relating to committee meetings; and providing for an effective date.

Updated: February 21, 2000

House Concurrent Resolution 18 would amend the Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature to permit legislative committees to meet between regular sessions and to take action on any legislative matter under its jurisdiction. Currently, the committees can meet and take testimony but cannot move legislation out of committee to the next committee of referral.

HCR 18 designates a standing, special, or joint committee which acts between legislative sessions as a subcommittee of the Legislative Council.

HCR 18 would permit legislative committee members to participate in these meetings via teleconference methods and to direct the committee chairman as to the member's recommendation on the committee report.

By amending the Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature to permit legislative committees to meet between regular sessions and to allow interim committee actions, teleconferenced voting and to take action on any legislative matter under its jurisdiction.

This change in rules will facilitate shorter sessions---saving money and encouraging more people to run for office.