Juneau — The Alaska House of Representatives has passed House Bill 75, legislation that adjusts eligibility rules for the PFD for Alaskans pursuing higher education or receiving medical care out of state, while also strengthening the integrity of data security related to the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program.
Sponsored by Representative Jeremy Bynum (R–Ketchikan), HB 75 makes targeted changes to protect the program from fraud, reduce administrative costs, and ensure Alaskans aren’t unfairly penalized for valid absences from the state.
Key provisions of HB 75 include:
- Expands allowable absences to include students at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and service in the Commissioned Corps of NOAA and the U.S. Public Health Service.
- Protecting college students who cannot afford to travel home during short school breaks
- Simplifying eligibility rules for Alaskans receiving out-of-state medical care.
- Implementing fingerprint-based background checks for PFD program staff who handle sensitive personal information.
- Allowing applicants to opt in to electronic notices, reducing paperwork and administrative costs
“This is a meaningful win for everyday Alaskans,” said Representative Bynum. “HB 75 strikes a balance between improving efficiency and protecting individual rights, all while keeping the program secure and focused on serving the people of Alaska.”