Bill > SB195

This bill amends Alaska's Disaster Act to explicitly include and address slow onset disasters, which are gradual environmental changes that can significantly impact ecosystems, infrastructure, and communities. The bill expands the purposes of the state's emergency management system to include mitigating disasters caused by a changing climate, and requires the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to identify potential slow onset disasters and develop measures to mitigate them. The bill adds climate scientists to the groups that should be consulted in emergency planning and requires local emergency planning committees to evaluate their districts' susceptibility to slow onset disasters and create mitigation plans. The legislation defines "slow onset disaster" to include specific environmental changes like drought, permafrost thaw, rising sea levels, coastal erosion, ocean acidification, and climate-induced displacement. By making these changes, the bill aims to improve Alaska's preparedness and response capabilities for gradual, long-term environmental challenges that can have significant impacts on the state's communities and infrastructure.

Government Affairs

State Affairs (S)

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB195