(JUNEAU) - Thursday evening, the Alaska House of Representatives passed a bill to establish an Office of Citizenship Assistance in Alaska. HB 379, sponsored by Representative Bruce Weyhrauch (R-Juneau), passed the House by a unanimous vote.

The Office of Citizenship Assistance would assist naturalized citizens and those going through the process of becoming naturalized citizens in dealing with the process. The Office would also act as a liaison between these individuals, state and federal agencies, and the private sector. Representative Weyhrauch hopes that this office will help bridge the transition of adjustment for new citizens.

"Immigrants and naturalized citizens are some of the hardest working Alaskans. Too often they are subject to processes and agendas that prevent them from putting their significant talents to work. This office will assist these new and soon to be citizens work their way through the system," said Representative Weyhrauch.

The bill now awaits consideration in the Alaska State Senate.

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