- Three deaths in custody underscores urgent need for legislative oversight of Department of Corrections (Alaska Native News, 1/18/2024)
- The Alaska Department of Corrections (DOC) reported three deaths of individuals in custody within four days. The deaths raise concerns about the DOC’s ability to ensure the well-being of those in its custody. The ACLU of Alaska, noting a record number of deaths in DOC custody in recent years, urges legislative oversight and accountability for the department’s practices as the legislature’s new session begins.
- Alaska House votes to increase oversight and limit time for foster youth in psychiatric facilities (Alaska Beacon, 3/27/2025)
- The Alaska House approved a bill to increase legislative oversight of the state’s Office of Children’s Services and limit how long foster youth can be held in psychiatric institutions. The legislation would require more frequent reporting to lawmakers and establish stricter time limits for inpatient psychiatric stays. Supporters said the bill aims to protect vulnerable children and improve transparency in the child welfare system.
- Dunleavy administration is blocking billion-dollar audit of oil tax disputes, legislators say (Alaska Beacon, 5/8/2025)
- According to several Alaska legislators, the Dunleavy administration is obstructing a legislative audit into unresolved oil tax disputes that could involve over $1 billion in revenue. Members of the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee stated that the Department of Revenue has refused to provide key documents needed for the review. Lawmakers expressed concern over transparency and accountability, emphasizing the audit’s role in evaluating the state’s financial interests.
- Alaska legislative leaders urge governor to address ‘pattern of obstruction’ by revenue department (Anchorage Daily News, 5/28/2025)
- Alaska legislative leaders sent a letter to Governor Mike Dunleavy urging action on what they describe as a “pattern of obstruction” by the Department of Revenue, particularly regarding its lack of cooperation with legislative audits and fiscal policy analysis. According to the letter, the department has repeatedly delayed or withheld information requested by the Legislative Finance Division and the Division of Legislative Audit. Lawmakers expressed concern that this behavior undermines legislative oversight and the state’s ability to make informed budget decisions.
