Sponsor Statement for HJR 11

Unicameral Legislature

HJR 11 proposes to amend the state constitution to establish a unicameral legislature and to shorten the length of the regular legislative session.

The concept of a unicameral legislature is one that Alaskans have considered before. In 1976 a majority of voters said "yes" when asked on the statewide ballot if the legislature should amend the constitution to provide for a unicameral legislature. Unfortunately, the legislature did not act on the peoples' wishes.

The unicameral system is used widely at the municipal, borough, and county government level. It has been used effectively in the state of Nebraska for over 50 years. It is also common in the private sector to have a single decision-making board.

HJR 11 proposes a single body of 60 legislators. Having a single body would do away with duplicative committee staffs, printing, hearings, and the competitiveness between bodies that too frequently occurs, thereby offering savings of both time and money.

A unicameral system would also result in a more responsive legislative process. With legislation moving through a single body, the public would find it easier to participate in a less burdensome process, making the legislature more accountable, and thus, more responsive.

As legislators we should be asking Alaskans "how we can do a better job of serving the public?" Allowing Alaskans to vote on the question posed in HJR 11 would be the best way to get their response.