The Republican-led Majority remains committed to keeping Alaska’s children safe and healthy. The 21st Alaska Legislature built on the comprehensive child protection plan already in place, by passing laws to plug gaps in the existing statutes and regulations that protect children from harm.

Protecting children on the streets

• SB 3 makes sure those convicted of murdering children, whether intentionally or in the course of inflicting abuse, are sentenced to tough, long terms in prison.
• HB 34 makes it a misdemeanor to NOT report a serious crime against a child. Such crimes include: murder, kidnapping, sexual penetration (actual or attempted) and assaults causing serious physical injury.
• HB 180 expands the conditions under which the co-presence of children and drugs is forbidden and provides for stiffer penalties.
• HB 216 allow school districts and their bus contracts to use the most recent technology on school buses.
• HB 253 requires schools to develop behavior standards and safety programs in collaboration with local communities.

Involving Parents with Schools

• HB 70 protects the rights of parents by requiring schools to get their consent before administering surveys or questionnaires to children that ask about their children's personal affairs.
• SB 27 allows parents access to their childrens' school and driving records. SB 27 also allows school districts to transfer certain information about potentially dangerous students from one district to another.

Ensuring Justice for Children

• HB 67 addresses release of sexual offenders and requires judges to inquire if a victim has been notified of hearing and/or is present and wishes to testify.
• HB 151 makes changes to Alaska statutes to determine when and under what circumstances a minor's driver's license may be revoked or restored.
• HB 177 gives foster parents a voice in court in delinquency cases. HB 177 also gives foster parents access to information related to their foster children.
• HB 288 makes the presence of a family member under 16 years old during the commission of a crime of domestic violence an aggravating factor for sentencing.

Continuing Our Commitment

• The Children’s Caucus is an ad hoc bipartisan committee of the House and Senate. Meetings are open to all 60 legislators, staff, and to the general public. The Caucus informs legislators about particular issues relating to children. Children’s Caucus this year heard from representatives of various issues including child advocates, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Child Abuse Awareness, Early Brain Development, Safe Schools, and Former Foster Child Panel.