Sponsor Statement for House Bill 428

"An Act Relating to Ferry Travel by Disabled Veterans"

Alaska has disabled veterans in all corners of the state. Many live in Southeast where transportation is restricted to air or the marine highway. The vast majority of disabled veterans have incurred their disability during service to their country. Many have limited incomes because of their disabilities. This bill would give them free passage on the Alaska Marine Highway.

CSHB 428 as written would grant this privilege only to veterans whose disability is rated at 50% or more. There are only about 500 such individuals in Alaska at this time. The bill would also require payment of a fee to cover the cost of issuing the permit; and it would apply only to passengers, not vehicles.

The Joint Service Organizations of Alaska request that Alaska show its support and appreciation to our disabled veterans by passing House Bill 428.