(JUNEAU) - Earlier today, the Alaska House of Representatives passed HB 83, legislation to extend the termination date for the Alaska Seismic Hazards Safety Commission and expanding the scope of the Commission to include tsunamis. HB 83 was sponsored by Representative Gabrielle LeDoux (R-Kodiak).

If HB 83 becomes law, the Commission, which was set to sunset on June 30, 2005 is now extended to June 30, 2008. The Commission, which was created by the administration of former Governor Tony Knowles, never received appointments. If appointments are made, the commission will help mitigate the tragedy caused by earthquakes and tsunamis by recommending policies to the governor and legislature.

"I believe that given our state's history and events within this year in Southeast Asia, the recommendations of this Commission may save the lives of many Alaskans," said Representative LeDoux.

HB 83 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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