"Relating to reestablishing the Alaska Information Infrastructure Policy Task Force. "

In 2003 the Alaska State Legislature passed HCR 32 in order to establish the Information Infrastructure Policy Task Force. HCR 6 extends that task force. The task force is charged with consideration of Alaska's role and interest in long-term information infrastructure development in order to provide all Alaska communities improved telecommunications, health care, and education, homeland security, economic development opportunities, and access to government via broadband connectivity.

The Task Force will also investigate and recommend access to fiber optic connectivity to help bridge the divide that separates rural Alaska from the benefits of technological advances realized in urban areas. It will look at successful public-private partnerships to facilitate information infrastructure development. The Task Force will develop a comprehensive package with recommendations including legislation, if necessary, to meet the needs of Alaska.

Unfortunately, time expired last session on HCR 6 and it took the Task Force with it. The Senate amended version of House Concurrent Resolution 6 reestablishes the Task Force and sets a new date that the Alaska Information Infrastructure Policy Task Force reports its findings and submits any draft legislation to the legislature, and terminates by the first day of the Second Regular Session of the Twenty-Fifth Alaska State Legislature.

We respectfully request favorable consideration and support for HCR 6.

# # #