Findings

1. Capitol building houses the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Legislature.
2. Corridors were found in violation of fire codes in 1998, and we have been unable to keep them at code. In addition, modern office buildings require fire protection corridors, which our capitol building cannot support.
3. Items of concern are, corridor length, space, access, lack of amenities, chamber space, committee space, electrical and telecommunication services, heating and ventilation.
4. The building has outlived its usefulness.

1. Alaska legislative counsel shall develop specifications for the new hall that will be made available by December 15, 2003. The building must first meet all fire codes, ADA requirements. The building must correct each of the issues listed in Sec1 (c).
   
   
1. An office for each legislator and their staff
2. A chamber for each body of the legislature, with voting boards
3. A legislative lounge
4. 18 committee rooms
5. A suite office space for the governor and his staff
6. One Courtroom for the Supreme Court and staff
7. One photocopy room for each floor
8. A public lounge
9. Rooms for security, supply, and documents
10. Office space deemed appropriate by the legislature
11. Office space for the senate secretary and the chief clerk
12. A print shop
13. A maintenance shop
14. A media office
15. An adequate area for media
16. An atrium or rotunda for events
17. Displays for Alaska historical exhibits and artifacts
18. A documents room
19. A press room
20. Adequate restrooms on each floor
    
    
2. specifications must include parking, including
   
   
1. covered parking for at least 75 vehicles
2. parking for at least 300 adjacent to the building
3. covered walkways
4. parking for an additional 150 spaces near the site
   
   
3. Total parking provided must equal or exceed the amount specified by code

Upon completing specifications the legislature shall solicit proposals. In deciding what proposal to accept the legislature shall consider whether the community has

1. adequate utilities
2. airport access
3. road or ferry access and
4. has adequate health, education, and social services facilities and adequate housing opportunities.

Contract procedures under AS 36.30.020 do not apply to this selection.

If a hall is constructed under this act, the legislature shall convene in this hall during the next session and every session, thereafter.