Bill > HB20

This bill prohibits insurers and businesses in Alaska from charging additional fees or different rates for providing paper statements, invoices, notices, or other documents, while still allowing them to charge for duplicate copies of documents that have already been provided. Specifically, the bill amends two sections of Alaska state law (AS 21.36 and AS 45.45) to establish this prohibition across insurance and business sectors. The legislation defines a "business" according to existing state code and empowers the director of the relevant regulatory agency to adopt regulations to implement and enforce these restrictions. Additionally, the bill adds a provision to AS 45.50.471 that classifies violations of the new paper document fee restrictions as an unfair trade practice, which would likely subject violators to potential penalties or legal consequences. The intent appears to be protecting consumers from being financially penalized for preferring or requiring paper documentation in an increasingly digital communication landscape.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB20