Bill > HB22

This bill amends several sections of Alaska state law to explicitly include "burial assistance" alongside existing general relief programs. The bill expands the definition of assistance to include funeral and burial expenses, and modifies several statutes to reference "general relief and burial assistance" where previously only "general relief" was mentioned. Specifically, the bill allows individuals who are denied medical or cash assistance solely due to receiving a permanent fund dividend or longevity bonus to still be eligible for state-funded assistance for up to four months. The Department of Health will now administer burial assistance as part of its existing public assistance programs, and the state retains the ability to recover improperly granted assistance through civil action. The bill also updates language around what constitutes "assistance" to include funeral and burial expenses, broadening the scope of support available to needy individuals. These changes aim to provide more comprehensive support for individuals facing financial hardship, ensuring they can access essential services and support for end-of-life expenses. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB22