(JUNEAU) - The Alaska House of Representatives approved House Bill 14 by a vote of 32 to two on Monday. Sponsored by Rep. Hugh "Bud" Fate (R-Fairbanks), HB 14 allows an Alaskan to leave the state to care for a terminally ill family member and still continue to collect a permanent fund dividend. Currently, Alaskans who are absent from the state for more than 180 days cannot collect a dividend; however, Fate says a person who cares for a family member in need should not be penalized.

"We want Alaskans to know their state will support their efforts to help their family," Fate said. "If a family member outside of Alaska is terminally ill, one of his or her relatives from within Alaska should be able to stay with them as long as necessary."

HB 14 moves to the Senate.

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