"An Act establishing a sunset date for each department of state government; relating to the review of the functions of state agencies, certain instrumentalities of the state, and other persons and offices."

Government services must be tailored as accurately as possible to public need. In addition, a waning Constitutional Budget Reserve motivates Alaskan lawmakers to focus on efficiency of government services. This bill creates a sunset review process that asks a fundamental question: how should state resources correspond to public need? This bill initiates the regular assessment of state agencies and entities on a periodic rotating basis, and sets a date on which an agency will be abolished unless legislation is passed to continue its functions.

Many state programs were aimed at meeting very specific needs. Over time, these needs grow, shift, or diminish. A thorough and detailed review of each government instrumentality will enable legislators to be better equipped to make crucial policy and budget decisions. Nearly 20 states utilize a similar sunset review process, notably Texas, and there is debate on implementing a federal sunset process.

Last Updated: 2/19/2003

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