Alaska State Senate

General Information
Party control: |  Split
Session start: |  January 21, 2025
Session end: |  May 21, 2025
Term length: |  4 years
Term limits: |  None
Redistricting: | Commission
Salary: |  $84,000/year + per diem
Members
Total: | 20
Democrats: | 9
Republicans: | 11
Other: | 0
Vacancies: | 0
Leadership
President: |  Gary Stevens (R)
Maj. Leader: |  Catherine A. Giessel (R)
Min. Leader: |  TBD
Elections
Last election: | November 5, 2024
Next election: | November 3, 2026

The Alaska State Senate is the upper chamber of the Alaska State Legislature. Alongside the Alaska House of Representatives, it forms the legislative branch of the Alaska state government and works alongside the governor of Alaska to create laws and establish a state budget. Legislative authority and responsibilities of the Alaska State Senate include passing bills on public policy matters, setting levels for state spending, raising and lowering taxes, and voting to uphold or override gubernatorial vetoes.

The Alaska State Senate meets in the state capitol building in Juneau, Alaska.

* Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2024.

* A total of 19 of 20 Alaska Senate seats were up for election in 2022. Republicans' numerical majority decreased from 13-7 to 11-9. Nine Democrats and eight Republicans announced the formation of a bipartisan coalition.
* Alaska has a divided government where neither party holds a trifecta. The Republican Party controls the office of governor and the upper chamber of the state legislature. Control of the lower chamber of the state legislature is split between parties.

This page contains the following information on the Alaska State Senate.

* Which party controls the chamber
* The chamber's current membership
* Partisan control of the chamber over time
* Elections in the chamber and how vacancies are filled
* A district map
* How redistricting works in the state
* Legislation currently under consideration
* Legislative session dates
* Legislative procedures, such as veto overrides and the state budget process
* A list of committees

## Contents

* 1 Party control
* 1.1 Current partisan control
* 2 Members
* 2.1 Leadership
* 2.2 Leadership and members
* 2.3 Salaries
* 2.4 Swearing in dates
* 2.5 Membership qualifications
* 3 Historical party control
* 3.1 Before 1992
* 3.2 Trifecta history
* 4 Elections
* 4.1 Elections by year
* 4.2 2026
* 4.3 2024
* 4.4 2022
* 4.5 2020
* 4.6 2018
* 4.7 2016
* 4.8 2014
* 4.9 2012
* 4.10 2010
* 4.11 2008
* 4.12 2006
* 4.13 2004
* 4.14 2002
* 4.15 2000
* 4.16 Vacancies
* 5 District map
* 6 Redistricting
* 6.1 2020
* 6.1.1 District map before and after 2020 redistricting
* 6.2 2010
* 7 Sessions
* 7.1 Legislation
* 7.2 Dates of legislative sessions in Alaska by year
* 7.3 2025
* 7.4 2024
* 7.5 2023
* 7.6 2022
* 7.7 2021
* 7.8 2020
* 7.8.1 Effect of coronavirus pandemic
* 7.9 2019
* 7.10 2018
* 7.11 2017
* 7.12 2016
* 7.12.1 Major issues in 2016
* 7.13 2015
* 7.13.1 Major issues in 2015
* 7.14 2014
* 7.14.1 Major issues in 2014
* 7.15 2013
* 7.15.1 Major issues in 2013
* 7.16 2012
* 7.16.1 Major issues
* 7.17 2011
* 7.18 2010
* 7.19 About legislative sessions in Alaska
* 8 Legislative roles and procedures
* 8.1 Veto overrides
* 8.2 Role in state budget
* 9 Committees
* 10 Constitutional amendments
* 10.1 Legislature
* 10.2 Convention
* 11 See also
* 12 External links
* 13 Footnotes

## Party control[edit]

### Current partisan control[edit]

The table below shows the partisan breakdown of the Alaska State Senate as of April 2025:

Party  | As of April 2025

|

| Democratic Party | 9
| Republican Party | 11
| Other  | 0
| Vacancies  | 0
Total |  20

## Members[edit]

### Leadership[edit]

The Senate president is the presiding officer of the Senate.[1]

### Leadership and members[edit]

* Senate president: Gary Stevens (R)
* Majority leader: Catherine A. Giessel (R)
* Minority leader: TBD

Office | Name | Party | Date assumed office

|
|
|

Alaska State Senate District A | Bert Stedman | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District B | Jesse Kiehl | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District C | Gary Stevens | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District D | Jesse Bjorkman | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District E | Catherine Giessel | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District F | James Kaufman | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District G | Elvi Gray-Jackson | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District H | Matt Claman | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District I | Loki Tobin | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District J | Forrest Dunbar | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District K | Bill Wielechowski | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District L | Kelly Merrick | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District M | Shelley Hughes | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District N | Robert Yundt | Republican  | January 21, 2025
Alaska State Senate District O | Mike Shower | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District P | Scott Kawasaki | Democratic  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District Q | Robert Myers Jr. | Republican  | January 17, 2023
Alaska State Senate District R | Mike Cronk | Republican  | January 21, 2025
Alaska State Senate District S | Lyman Hoffman | Democratic  | 2003
Alaska State Senate District T | Donald Olson | Democratic  | 2001

### Salaries[edit]

See also: Comparison of state legislative salaries
State legislative salaries, 2024[2]

Salary| Per diem
$84,000/year| $307/day

### Swearing in dates[edit]

See also: When state legislators assume office after a general election

Alaska legislators assume office on the third Tuesday of January following their election.[3][4]

### Membership qualifications[edit]

See also: State legislature candidate requirements by state

Article II, Section 2 of the Alaska Constitution states: "A member of the legislature shall be a qualified voter who has been a resident of Alaska for at least three years and of the district from which elected for at least one year, immediately preceding his filing for office. A senator shall be at least twenty-five years of age and a representative at least twenty-one years of age."[5]

## Historical party control[edit]

A multipartisan governing coalition has controlled the Alaska State Senate since 2022. Following the 2022 elections, the coalition included nine Republicans and eight Democrats. The same coalition continued control after the 2024 elections.

The table below shows the partisan history of the Alaska Senate following every general election from 1992 to 2022. All data from 2006 or earlier comes from Michael Dubin's Party Affiliations in the State Legislatures (McFarland Press, 2007). Data after 2006 was compiled by Ballotpedia staff.

Alaska State Senate election results: 1992-2022

Year  | '92  | '94  | '96  | '98  | '00  | '02  | '04  | '06[6] | '08[7] | '10[8] | '12  | '14  | '16  | '18  | '20  | '22[9] | '24[10]

|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|

Democrats | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9
Republicans | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 11
Independents | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0

### Before 1992[edit]

Of the 33 Alaska State Senate elections held between 1958 and 2022, 19 left the Democrats and Republicans within four seats of each other.

### Trifecta history[edit]

A state government trifecta is a term that describes single party government, when one political party holds the governor's office and has majorities in both chambers of the legislature in a state government. Between 1992 and 2023, Alaska was under the following types of trifecta control:

* Democratic trifecta: None
* Republican trifecta: 2003-2006, 2013-2014
* Divided government: 1992-2002, 2007-2012, 2015-2023

Alaska Party Control: 1992-2025
No Democratic trifectas • Six years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year  | 92  | 93  | 94  | 95  | 96  | 97  | 98  | 99  | 00  | 01  | 02  | 03  | 04  | 05  | 06  | 07  | 08  | 09  | 10  | 11  | 12  | 13  | 14  | 15  | 16  | 17  | 18  | 19  | 20  | 21  | 22  | 23  | 24  | 25

|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|

Governor | I | I | R | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | I | I | I | I | R | R | R | R | R | R | R
Senate | S | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | D | D | D | D | D | D | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | S | S | S
House | D | D | D | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | D | D | S | S | S | S | S | S | S

## Elections[edit]

### Elections by year[edit]

Alaska state senators serve staggered, four-year terms and half of the Senate is up for election every two years. Alaska holds elections for its legislature in even years.

### 2026[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2026

Elections for the Alaska State Senate will take place in 2026. The general election is on November 3, 2026.

### 2024[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2024

Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2024. The general election was on November 5, 2024. The primary was August 20, 2024. The filing deadline was June 1, 2024.

### 2022[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2022

Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2022. The general election was on November 8, 2022. A primary was scheduled for August 16, 2022. The filing deadline was June 1, 2022.

In the 2022 elections, Republicans' numerical majority decreased from 13-7 to 11-9. Nine Democrats and eight Republicans announced the formation of a bipartisan coalition.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 8, 2022  | After November 9, 2022
| Democratic Party | 7  | 9
| Republican Party | 13 | 11
Total |  20 |  20

### 2020[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2020

Elections for the office of Alaska State Senate took place in 2020. The general election was held on November 3, 2020. A primary was scheduled for August 18, 2020. The filing deadline was June 1, 2020.

In the 2020 elections, there was no change in the partisan balance of the Alaska State Senate.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 3, 2020  | After November 4, 2020
| Democratic Party | 7  | 7
| Republican Party | 13 | 13
Total |  20 |  20

### 2018[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2018

Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2018. A hybrid primary election took place on August 21, 2018.[11] The general election was held on November 6, 2018.[12] The candidate filing deadline was June 1, 2018. The deadline for independent and minor party candidates to submit signatures was August 21, 2018.[13]

In the 2018 elections, the Republican majority in the Alaska State Senate decreased from 14-6 to 13-7.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 6, 2018  | After November 7, 2018
| Democratic Party | 6  | 7
| Republican Party | 14 | 13
Total |  20 |  20

### 2016[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2016

Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2016. The primary election took place on August 16, 2016, and the general election was held on November 8, 2016. The candidate filing deadline was June 1, 2016. A total of 10 seats out of the 20 seats in the Alaska State Senate were up for election in 2016. No changes occurred to the partisan balance of the chamber.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 7, 2016  | After November 8, 2016
| Democratic Party | 6  | 6
| Republican Party | 14 | 14
Total |  20 |  20
Click [show] to see election information dating back to 2000

### 2014[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2014

Elections for the Alaska State Senate took place in 2014. A primary election took place on August 19, 2014. The general election was held on November 4, 2014. The signature filing deadline for candidates wishing to run in this election was June 2, 2014.

Heading into the election, Republicans held a 13-7 majority. Republicans gained one seat in the election, giving them a 14-6 majority.

| Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 3, 2014  | After November 4, 2014
| Democratic Party | 7  | 6
| Republican Party | 13 | 14
Total |  20 |  20

### 2012[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2012

Elections for the office of Alaska State Senate took place in 2012. The primary election was held on August 28, 2012, and the general election was held on November 6, 2012. The candidate filing deadline was June 1, 2012.

Ordinarily, half (10) of the senators would have been up for election in 2012, with the remaining half up for election in 2014 because senators serve staggered four-year terms. However in 2012, every senator except Dennis Egan (D) faced re-election due to changes resulting from state legislative redistricting. Senators normally scheduled for the 2014 election were elected to two-year terms in 2012, preserving Alaska's staggered Senate elections. Thus, a total of 19 seats were up for election in 2012.[14]

Heading into the election, the Alaska State Senate was tied at 10-10. Republicans gained three seats in the election, giving them a 13-7 majority.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 5, 2012  | After the 2012 Election
| Democratic Party | 10  | 7
| Republican Party | 10  | 13
Total |  20 |  20

The table below details the 10 districts with the smallest margin of victory in the November 6 general election in 2012.

2012 Margin of Victory, Alaska State Senate

District  | Winner  | Margin of Victory  | Total Votes  | Top Opponent
District 10 (J) |  Hollis French, II | 0.4% | 15,151 | Bob Bell
District 2 (B) |  Pete Kelly | 8.6% | 11,481 | Joe Paskvan
District 7 (G) |  Bill Wielechowski | 12.3% | 11,355 | Bob Roses
District 14 (N) |  Catherine Giessel | 18.2% | 17,607 | Ron Devon
District 8 (H) |  Berta Gardner | 19% | 11,680 | Don Smith
District 1 (A) |  John Coghill | 21% | 15,639 | Joe Thomas
District 13 (M) |  Anna Fairclough | 24.5% | 17,688 | Bettye Davis
District 17 |  Bert Stedman | 29% | 15,242 | Albert Kookesh
District 11 (K) |  Lesil McGuire | 32.9% | 13,985 | Roselynn Cacy
District 9 (I) |  Johnny Ellis | 36.3% | 10,008 | Paul Kendall

### 2010[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2010

Elections for the office of Alaska State Senate took place in 2010. The primary election was held on August 24, 2010, and the general election was held on November 2, 2010. The candidate filing deadline was June 1, 2010. State senate seats in all even-numbered districts excluding District 20 were on the ballot in 2010, in addition to the District 19 seat.

Heading into the election, Alaska State Senate was tied at 10-10. The partisan balance did not change in the election.

Alaska State Senate

Party  | As of November 1, 2010  | After the 2010 Election
| Democratic Party | 10  | 10
| Republican Party | 10  | 10
Total |  20 |  20

During the 2010 election, the total value of contributions to the 29 Senate candidates was $1,227,692. The top 10 contributors were:[15]

2010 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Dziubinski, Philip L  | $153,806
Higgins, Pete  | $45,410
Moronell, Mark W  | $39,162
Alaska Republican Party  | $28,450
Giessel, Cathy  | $27,535
Giessel, Catherin A (Cathy)  | $18,125
Alaska Association of Realtors | $15,800
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte of Alaska  | $15,000
Alaska State Employees Association Local 52 | $13,000
Alaska Laborers Local 341  | $12,000

### 2008[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2008

Elections for the office of the Alaska State Senate consisted of a primary election on August 26, 2008, and a general election on November 4, 2008.

During the 2008 election, the total value of contributions to Senate candidates was $863,330. The top 10 contributors were:[16]

2008 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Anderson, John Nels  | $40,000
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte of Alaska  | $37,578
Alaska Republican Party  | $29,738
Electrical Workers Local 1547  | $11,500
Associated General Contractors of Alaska  | $10,500
Alaska State Employees Association Local 52  | $10,500
Alaska Region Council of Carpenters Local 1281  | $9,000
Fairbanks Republican Womens Club  | $9,000
Alaska Public Employees Association  | $9,000
Schneeberger, Rosemary Rory  | $7,500

### 2006[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2006

Elections for the office of the Alaska State Senate consisted of a primary election on August 22, 2006, and a general election on November 7, 2006.

During the 2006 election, the total value of contributions to Senate candidates was $1,560,798. The top 10 contributors were:[17]

2006 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Mayo, Louis Earl  | $83,629
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte of Alaska  | $63,754
Alaska Republican Party  | $41,700
Seekins, Ralph C  | $30,300
Alaska Public Employees Association  | $22,000
Electrical Workers Local 1547  | $20,100
Beck, Tim  | $19,681
Operating Engineers Local 302  | $19,000
Alaska Association of Realtors  | $19,000
Associated General Contractors of Alaska  | $16,500

### 2004[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2004

Elections for the office of the Alaska State Senate consisted of a primary election on August 24, 2004, and a general election on November 2, 2004.

During the 2004 election, the total value of contributions to Senate candidates was $1,867,581. The top 10 contributors were:[18]

2004 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Jerry Ward for State Senate  | $124,126
Alaska Republican Party  | $95,250
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte of Alaska  | $74,530
Allee, Rita T  | $61,259
Ward, Jerry  | $59,291
Yourkowski, Michael L  | $21,605
Alaska Laborers Local 341  | $17,500
Zaugg, Lynda L  | $16,574
Electrical Workers Local 1547  | $16,500
Alaska Public Employees Local 71  | $15,500

### 2002[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2002

Elections for the office of the Alaska State Senate consisted of a primary election on August 27, 2002, and a general election on November 5, 2002.

During the 2002 election, the total value of contributions to Senate candidates was $2,196,193. The top 10 contributors were:[19]

2002 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Alaska Republican Party  | $73,833
Worthen, Timothy J  | $27,050
Seekins, Ralph C  | $24,250
Associated General Contractors of Alaska  | $17,500
Heinze, Harold  | $16,981
Alaska Public Employees Local 71  | $16,000
Electrical Workers Local 1547  | $16,000
Alaska Teamsters  | $16,000
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte of Alaska  | $15,650
Alaska Public Employees Association  | $15,000

### 2000[edit]

See also: Alaska State Senate elections, 2000

Elections for the office of the Alaska State Senate consisted of a primary election on August 22, 2000, and a general election on November 7, 2000.

During the 2000 election, the total value of contributions to Senate candidates was $2,116,529. The top 10 contributors were:[20]

2000 Donors, Alaska State Senate

Donor  | Amount
Privett, William B  | $121,003
Alaska Republican Party  | $79,500
Ward, Jerry  | $70,316
Senate Democratic Campaign Cmte  | $58,426
Olson, Donald C  | $49,552
Szymanski, Mike  | $26,373
Cowdery, John J  | $25,100
Martin, Terry  | $24,234
Guzy, David R  | $23,300
French, Hollis  | $21,750

### Vacancies[edit]

See also: How vacancies are filled in state legislatures

If there is a vacancy in the Alaska State Legislature, the governor is responsible for selecting a replacement. The governor must select the replacement within 30 days after the vacancy happens. Nevertheless, if the predecessor's term is set to expire or if a special election is scheduled to fill a vacancy in the state Senate before the legislature reconvenes, the governor is not authorized to appoint someone to fill the vacancy.[21]

See sources: Alaska Stat. §15.40.320

## District map[edit]

See also: Alaska state legislative districts

The state of Alaska has 20 state Senate districts. Each district elects one senator.

Use the interactive map below to find your district.

## Redistricting[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Alaska

Because Alaska has only one congressional district, congressional redistricting is not necessary. A non-politician commission draws state legislative district lines. In place since 1998, Alaska's redistricting commission comprises five members. Two commissioners are appointed by the governor, one by the state Senate majority leader, one by the state House majority leader, and one by the chief justice of the Alaska Supreme Court. State law mandates that commissioners "be chosen without regard to party affiliation." One commissioner must be selected from each of the state's judicial districts.[22]

The Alaska Constitution requires that state legislative districts be contiguous and compact. Furthermore, every state legislative district must contain a "relatively integrated socio-economic area." Each state legislative district is served by one state senator and two state representatives.[22]

### 2020[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Alaska after the 2020 census

Alaska completed its state legislative redistricting on May 24, 2022, when the Alaska Redistricting Board adopted a new map of state Senate districts at the direction of the state supreme court. In its ruling, the Alaska Supreme Court upheld a May 16, 2022, decision by the Third District of Alaska's Superior Court that determined that the mapping of state House districts to Senate ones was unconstitutional and ordered the Alaska Redistricting Board to adopt another proposed plan for pairing the districts. Click here to read more about litigation surrounding Alaska's legislative boundaries. These maps took effect for Alaska's 2022 legislative elections. On May 15, 2023, the Alaska Redistricting Board adopted its 2022 interim maps as final state legislative maps. The final maps were used in the 2024 elections.[23]

Alaska had initially enacted legislative district boundaries on November 10, 2021, following a 3-2 vote by the Alaska Redistricting Board. The three Republican-appointed board members voted in favor of the map and the two nonpartisan board members voted against it.[24] On March 25, 2022, the Alaska Supreme Court ruled that one state House and one state Senate district did not comply with the state constitution and required they be redrawn.[25] The Alaska Redistricting Board adopted new legislative district boundaries to comply with the state supreme court's ruling on April 13, 2022.[26]

#### District map before and after 2020 redistricting[edit]

Below is the state Senate map in effect before and after the 2020 redistricting cycle.

### Alaska State Senate Districts
before 2020 redistricting cycle

Click a district to compare boundaries.

### Alaska State Senate Districts
after 2020 redistricting cycle

Click a district to compare boundaries.

### 2010[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Alaska after the 2010 census

The Alaska Redistricting Board officially began the work of legislative redistricting with a public meeting on March 16, 2011.[27] On April 13, 2011, the preliminary redistricting maps for the Alaska State Legislature were released.[28] The Redistricting Board submitted the state’s redistricting plan to the Department of Justice on August 11, 2011, for pre-clearance as required under the Voting Rights Act.[29] The U.S. Department of Justice approved Alaska's legislative redistricting plan on October 11, 2011.[30] On December 28, 2012, the Alaska Supreme Court ordered the state's redistricting plan be redrawn for the 2014 elections, ruling that the Redistricting Board did not follow the process as instructed by the court.[31] On July 14, 2013, the Alaska Redistricting Board adopted its 2013 Proclamation Plan.[32][33]

## Sessions[edit]

### Legislation[edit]

The legislation tracker below displays all legislation that the Alaska State Senate has approved in its most recent legislative session—this includes legislation that has been sent from the Senate to the House and legislation that has already been approved by both chambers and signed by the governor. The table below includes the bill number, its name, progress, most recent action date, and sponsor. Scroll up and down and side to side to see more. Click the bill number to read the bill text and see its voting history. Click the headings to sort the content. Rearrange the order of the headings by clicking and dragging them. Click the magnifying glass in the bottom left corner to search for specific terms. The legislation tracker is maintained and updated by BillTrack50.

### Dates of legislative sessions in Alaska by year[edit]

### 2025[edit]

See also: 2025 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2025 state legislative sessions

In 2025, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 21, 2025, and adjourn on May 21, 2025.

Click [show] for past years' session dates.

### 2024[edit]

See also: 2024 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2024 state legislative sessions

In 2024, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 16, 2024, and adjourn on May 15, 2024.

### 2023[edit]

See also: 2023 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2023 state legislative sessions

In 2023, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 17, 2023, and adjourn on May 17, 2023.

### 2022[edit]

See also: 2022 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2022 state legislative sessions

In 2022, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 18, 2022, and adjourn on May 18, 2022.

### 2021[edit]

See also: 2021 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2021 state legislative sessions

In 2021, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 19, 2021, and adjourn on May 19, 2021.

### 2020[edit]

See also: 2020 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2020 state legislative sessions

In 2020, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 21, 2020, and adjourn on May 20, 2020.

#### Effect of coronavirus pandemic[edit]

See also: Changes to state legislative session dates in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, 2020

Coronavirus pandemic
Select a topic from the dropdown below to learn more.

Political responses overviewState reopening plansDocumenting America's Path to RecoveryElection changesChanges to vote-by-mail and absentee voting proceduresFederal responsesState responsesState executive ordersStay-at-home ordersMultistate agreementsNon-governmental reopening plansEvictions and foreclosures policiesTravel restrictionsEnacted state legislationState legislative session changesSchool closuresState court closuresInmate releasesLocal government responsesDiagnosed or quarantined politiciansBallot measure changesArguments about government responsesThe 1918 influenza pandemicPandemic Response Accountability CommitteeUnemployment filingsLawsuitsBallotpedia's polling on the coronavirus pandemicSubmit

Several state legislatures had their sessions impacted as a result of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. On March 29, 2020, the Alaska State Legislature suspended its session, effective immediately and continuing through May 18, 2020. The legislature adjourned on May 20, 2020.[34][35]

### 2019[edit]

See also: 2019 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2019 state legislative sessions

In 2019, the legislature was in session from January 15, 2019, through May 14, 2019.

### 2018[edit]

See also: 2018 Alaska legislative session and Dates of 2018 state legislative sessions

In 2018, the legislature was in session from January 16, 2018, through May 13, 2018. To read about notable events and legislation from this session, click here.

### 2017[edit]

See also: Dates of 2017 state legislative sessions

In 2017, the legislature was in session from January 17, 2017, through May 17, 2017. The legislature held its first special session from May 18, 2017, to June 16, 2017. The legislature held its second special session from June 16, 2017, to July 15, 2017. The legislature held a one-day special session on July 27, 2017. The legislature began its fourth special session on October 23. It ended on November 21.

### 2016[edit]

See also: Dates of 2016 state legislative sessions

In 2016, the legislature was in session from January 19 through May 18 (extended session). The legislature held a special session from May 23, 2016, to June 19, 2016. The legislature held a second special session from July 11 to July 18.

#### Major issues in 2016[edit]

Major issues in the 2016 legislative session included a $3.5 billion budget deficit, a possible state income tax, government cuts, and the formation of a ways and means committee.[36]

### 2015[edit]

See also: Dates of 2015 state legislative sessions

In 2015, the legislature was in session from January 20 through April 27 (Session extended). The first special session was held from April 28 to May 21. The second special session was held from May 21 to June 11. A third special session was held from October 24 to November 5.

#### Major issues in 2015[edit]

Major issues in the 2015 legislative session included the state budget. Decreasing oil prices created a multi-billion dollar shortfall, so legislators looked to find cuts and improved efficiencies.[37]

### 2014[edit]

See also: Dates of 2014 state legislative sessions

In 2014, the legislature was in session from January 21 to April 20.

#### Major issues in 2014[edit]

Major issues in the 2014 legislative session included education, the state budget, high energy prices, and a natural gas pipeline.[38]

### 2013[edit]

See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions

In 2013, the legislature was in session from January 15 to April 14.

#### Major issues in 2013[edit]

Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included oil tax reform, state agency performance reviews, and a budget for fiscal year 2014.[39][40]

### 2012[edit]

See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions

In 2012, the legislature was in regular session from January 17 to April 15. It was in special session from April 15 to April 30.[41]

#### Major issues[edit]

Legislators took up Governor Sean Parnell's (R) suggestion to decrease the oil tax in order to increase economic growth. They also considered a ban on texting while driving, education funding, the state's unfunded pension liability, and whether to extend the legislative session from 90 to 120 days.[42]

### 2011[edit]

See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions

In 2011, the legislature was in session from January 18 to April 17. Lawmakers remained in Juneau from April 18 to May 14 to resolve ongoing disagreements over the state's operating budget; the final compromise included money for a new in-state natural gas pipeline and a $20 million payout to the state's schools.[43]

A second special session was held from June 27 to 28 to discuss reauthorization of the state's Coastal Management Program, which was set to expire June 30. Measures to reauthorize the program failed during the regular session.[44] The program ended on schedule after the House failed to pass a Senate proposal to save it.[45]

### 2010[edit]

See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions

In 2010, the legislature was in session from January 19th to April 18th.

### About legislative sessions in Alaska[edit]

The Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution declares that any power not already given to the federal government is reserved to the states and the people.[46] State governments across the country use this authority to hold legislative sessions where a state's elected representatives meet for a period of time to draft and vote on legislation and set state policies on issues such as taxation, education, and government spending. The different types of legislation passed by a legislature may include resolutions, legislatively referred constitutional amendments, and bills that become law.

Section 8 of  Article II of the Alaska Constitution contains provisions relating to the timing and length of sessions of the Alaska State Legislature, of which the Senate is a part. However, the provisions related to the convening date of the Legislature have been changed by law, and the provisions limiting the length of legislative sessions have been changed by the  Alaska 90-Day Legislative Session Amendment. This amendment was passed in a 2006 ballot initiative, and it limits the regular sessions of the Legislature to ninety days.

Section 9 of Article II allows for special sessions to be called by the governor of Alaska or by a two-thirds vote of the legislators. Special sessions are limited to thirty days.

## Legislative roles and procedures[edit]

Every state legislature throughout the country features its own internal procedures that it uses to govern itself and how it interacts with other parts of state government. Ballotpedia's coverage of internal state legislative procedures includes veto overrides, the role of the legislature in the state budget, and procedures for filling membership vacancies.

### Veto overrides[edit]

See also: Veto overrides in state legislatures

State legislatures can override governors' vetoes. Depending on the state, this can be done during the regular legislative session, in a special session following the adjournment of the regular session, or during the next legislative session. The rules for legislative overrides of gubernatorial vetoes in Alaska are listed below.

How many legislators are required to vote for an override? Two-thirds of members in a joint session.

Two-thirds of all legislators in a joint session must vote to override a veto, which is 40 of the 60 members in both chambers of the Alaska State Legislature. Alaska is the only state that requires a two-thirds vote from its combined legislative chambers to override a veto.

How can vetoes be overridden after the legislature has adjourned?

According to Article II, Section 16 of the Alaska Constitution, bills vetoed following the first year of the legislative session can be overridden during a special session or in the regular session the following year. Bills vetoed following the second regular session can only be overridden in a special session, which can be called by two-thirds of legislators.[47]

Are there other special rules?

If the governor vetoes a revenue or appropriation bill, a three-fourths vote by the legislature is required to override the veto, which is 45 of 60 legislators.[48]

Authority: Article II, Section 16 of the Alaska Constitution.

"Upon receipt of a veto message during a regular session of the legislature, the legislature shall meet immediately in joint session and reconsider passage of the vetoed bill or item. Bills to raise revenue and appropriation bills or items, although vetoed, become law by affirmative vote of three-fourths of the membership of the legislature. Other vetoed bills become law by affirmative vote of two-thirds of the membership of the legislature."

### Role in state budget[edit]

See also: Alaska state budget and finances
Alaska on

Check out Ballotpedia articles about policy in your state on:
Budgets • Civil liberties • Education • Elections • Energy • Environment • Healthcare • Pensions

* * *

The state operates on an annual budget cycle, with the fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30. The sequence of key events in the budget process is as follows:[49]

1. Budget instructions are sent to state agencies in July.
2. Agencies submit their budget requests to the governor in October.
3. The governor submits his or her proposed budget to the state legislature by December 15.
4. The legislature adopts a budget by a simple majority in April.

The governor is required by statute to submit a balanced budget. Likewise, the legislature is required by statute to pass a balanced budget.[49]

Alaska is one of 44 states in which the governor has line item veto authority.[49][50]

## Committees[edit]

See also: List of committees in Alaska state government

Every state legislature and state legislative chamber in the country contains several legislative committees. These committees are responsible for studying, amending, and voting on legislation before it reaches the floor of a chamber for a full vote. The different types of committees include standing committees, select or special, and joint.

* Standing committees are generally permanent committees, the names of which sometimes change from session to session.
* Select or special committees are temporary committees formed to deal with specific issues such as recent legislation, major public policy or proposals, or investigations.
* Joint committees are committees that feature members of both chambers of a legislature.

Ballotpedia covers standing and special committees in Alaska. The Alaska State Senate has 10 standing committees:

* Senate Community & Regional Affairs Committee
* Senate Education Committee
* Senate Finance Committee
* Senate Health & Social Services Committee
* Senate Judiciary Committee
* Senate Labor & Commerce Committee
* Senate Resources Committee
* Senate Rules Committee
* Senate State Affairs Committee
* Senate Transportation Committee

## Constitutional amendments[edit]

In every state but Delaware, voter approval is required to enact a constitutional amendment. In each state, the legislature has a process for referring constitutional amendments before voters. In 18 states, initiated constitutional amendments can be put on the ballot through a signature petition drive. There are also many other types of statewide measures.

The methods in which the Alaska Constitution can be amended:

See also: Article XIII of the Alaska Constitution and Laws governing ballot measures in Alaska

The Alaska Constitution provides two mechanisms for amending the state's constitution—a legislative process, and a state constitutional convention. Alaska requires a simple majority vote (50% plus 1) for voters to approve constitutional amendments. Alaskans do not have the power to use a citizen initiative to amend the state's constitution. The power of initiative in Alaska is restricted to proposing state statutes.

#### Legislature[edit]

See also: Legislatively referred constitutional amendment

A two-thirds vote in each legislative chamber of the Alaska State Legislature during one legislative session to refer a constitutional amendment to the ballot. That amounts to a minimum of 27 votes in the Alaska House of Representatives and 14 votes in the Alaska State Senate, assuming no vacancies. Amendments do not require the governor's signature to be referred to the ballot.

#### Convention[edit]

See also: Convention-referred constitutional amendment

According to Section 3 of Article 13 of the Alaska Constitution, a question about whether to hold a state constitutional convention is to automatically appear on the state's ballot every 10 years starting in 1970. Alaska is one of 14 states that provides for an automatic constitutional convention question.

The table below shows the last and next constitutional convention question election years:

State | Interval | Last question on the ballot | Next question on the ballot

|
|
|

Alaska | 10 years | 2022 | 2032

## See also[edit]

Elections |  Alaska State Government | State Legislatures | State Politics

|
|
|

* Alaska State Senate elections, 2024
* Alaska State Senate elections, 2022
* Alaska State Senate elections, 2020
* Alaska State Senate elections, 2018

* Alaska State Legislature
* Alaska House of Representatives
* Governor of Alaska
* Alaska Supreme Court

* State legislative elections: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018

* State government trifectas
* State government triplexes
* State executives
* State courts
* Ballot measures
* The State Legislative Decade

## External links[edit]

* Alaska State Senate

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ Alaska House of Representatives, "Glossary of Legislative Terms," accessed February 8, 2021
2. ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "2024 Legislator Compensation," August 21, 2024
3. ↑ JUSTIA US Law, "Alaska Statutes, Sec. 24.05.080," accessed November 1, 2021
4. ↑ Alaska’s Constitution, "A Citizen’s Guide," accessed November 1, 2021
5. ↑ Office of Lt. Governor, "The Constitution of the State of Alaska - Article II – The Legislature," accessed January 24, 2023
6. ↑ Nine Democrats and six Republicans formed a 15-member governing coalition.
7. ↑ Ten Democrats and six Republicans formed a 16-member governing coalition.
8. ↑ Ten Democrats and five Republicans formed a 15-member governing coalition.
9. ↑ Eight Democrats and nine Republicans formed a 17-member governing coalition.
10. ↑ Eight Democrats and nine Republicans formed a 17-member governing coalition.
11. ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "State Primary Election Systems," accessed March 23, 2017
12. ↑ Alaska Division of Elections, "Primary Election Information," accessed May 31, 2017
13. ↑ Alaska Division of Elections, "Candidate Filing Forms and Information," accessed May 31, 2017
14. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "New legislative map forces early elections for senators," June 13, 2011
15. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska State Senate 2010 Campaign Contributions," accessed April 23, 2015
16. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska 2008 Candidates," accessed April 10, 2013
17. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska 2006 Candidates," accessed April 10, 2013
18. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska 2004 Candidates," accessed April 10, 2013
19. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska 2002 Candidates," accessed April 10, 2013
20. ↑ Follow the Money, "Alaska 2000 Candidates," accessed April 10, 2013
21. ↑ Alaska State Legislature, " Sec. 15.40.320. Condition and time for filling vacancy by appointment," accessed February 8, 2021 (Statute 15.40.320)
22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 All About Redistricting, "Alaska," accessed April 17, 2015
23. ↑ Alaska Redistricting Board, "2023 May Final Proclamation," accessed March 20, 2025
24. ↑ The Midnight Sun, "'I pray litigation is swift and just.' Redistricting Board finalizes plan with attempted dig at dissenters," Nov. 10, 2021
25. ↑ Alaska Supreme Court, "In the Matter of the 2021 Redistricting Cases," March 25, 2022
26. ↑ Alaska Redistricting Board, "Amended Proclamation of Redistricting," April 13, 2022
27. ↑ Alaska Dispatch, "Alaska redistricting board gets to work, " March 16, 2011
28. ↑ Alaska Dispatch, "Alaska redistricting plan offers 2 regional alternatives," April 13, 2011
29. ↑ The Arctic Sounder, "Final Alaska redistricting plan goes to Justice Department," August 11, 2011
30. ↑ Alaska Public Radio, "Redistricting Plan Approved by Justice Department," October 12, 2011
31. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "High court orders redistricting plan be redrawn," December 28, 2012
32. ↑ alaskadispatch.com, "Alaska Redistricting Board adopts revised voting district map," July 14, 2013
33. ↑ Alaska Redistricting Board, "2013 Proclamation Plan," July 14, 2013
34. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Alaska Legislature approves $4.5 billion budget plus $1,000 Permanent Fund dividend, then departs Juneau," March 29, 2020
35. ↑ Multistate, "2020 Legislative Session Dates," last updated May 20, 2020
36. ↑ newsminer.com, "Alaska legislators begin what's shaping up to be long, tough session," January 20, 2016
37. ↑ KTUU, "Alaska Legislature to get underway; budget a big issue," January 20, 2015
38. ↑ www.newsminer.com/, "Alaska lawmakers prepare for first legislative session of 2014," accessed January 22, 2014
39. ↑ juneauempire.com, "Oil taxes to top agenda for next Legislature," accessed April 22, 2015
40. ↑ ktuu.com, "Alaska Legislative Session Adjourns," April 15, 2013
41. ↑ ncsl.org, "2012 Legislative Session Calendar," accessed April 21, 2015
42. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Lingering issues to test Legislature," January 16, 2012
43. ↑ Juneau Empire, "Operating budget agreement helps clear way to end of session," May 4, 2011
44. ↑ ncsl.org, "2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar," accessed April 21, 2015
45. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "House votes down bill to save coastal management program," June 28, 2011
46. ↑ Find Law, "Tenth Amendment - U.S. Constitution," accessed May 20, 2017
47. ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "Special Sessions," accessed June 28, 2017
48. ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "The Veto Process," accessed June 22, 2017
49. ↑ 49.0 49.1 49.2 National Association of State Budget Officers, "Budget Processes in the States, Spring 2021," accessed January 24, 2023
50. ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "Separation of Powers: Executive Veto Powers," accessed January 26, 2024

v • e

State legislatures

Legislatures|

Alabama (H, S) · Alaska (H, S) · Arizona (H, S) · Arkansas (H, S) · California (A, S) · Colorado (H, S) · Connecticut (H, S) · Delaware (H, S) · Florida (H, S) · Georgia (H, S) · Hawaii (H, S) · Idaho (H, S) · Illinois (H, S) · Indiana (H, S) · Iowa (H, S) · Kansas (H, S) · Kentucky (H, S) · Louisiana (H, S) · Maine (H, S) · Maryland (H, S) · Massachusetts (H, S) · Michigan (H, S) · Minnesota (H, S) · Mississippi (H, S) · Missouri (H, S) · Montana (H, S) · Nebraska · Nevada (A, S) · New Hampshire (H, S) · New Jersey (GA, S) · New Mexico (H, S) · New York (A, S) · North Carolina (H, S) · North Dakota (H, S) · Ohio (H, S) · Oklahoma (H, S) · Oregon (H, S) · Pennsylvania (H, S) · Rhode Island (H, S) · South Carolina (H, S) · South Dakota (H, S) · Tennessee (H, S) · Texas (H, S) · Utah (H, S) · Vermont (H, S) · Virginia (H, S) · Washington (H, S) · West Virginia (H, S) · Wisconsin (A, S) · Wyoming (H, S)

* * *

2025|

State legislative elections (2025) • State legislative special elections (2025) • Primary dates and filing requirements • 2025 Session Dates

* * *

2024|

State legislative elections (2024) • State legislative special elections (2024) • Primary dates and filing requirements • 2024 Session Dates

* * *

2023|

State legislative elections (2023) • State legislative special elections (2023) • Primary dates and filing requirements • 2023 Session Dates

* * *

Historical elections|

2022 • 2021 • 2020 • 2019 • 2018 • 2017 • 2016 • 2015 • 2014 • 2013 • 2012 • 2011 • 2010 • 2009 • 2008 • 2007 • 2006 • 2005 • 2004 • 2003 • 2002 • 2001 • 2000

* * *

Features of
state legislatures|

How vacancies are filled in state legislatures • States with a full-time legislature • State legislatures with term limits • Comparison of state legislative salaries • When state legislators assume office after a general election • Population represented by state legislators • State constitutional articles governing state legislatures • State legislative sessions • Resign-to-run law • State legislature candidate requirements by state • Official names of state legislatures • State legislative chambers that use multi-member districts • Factors Affecting Competitiveness in State Legislative Elections

* * *

State senates|

Length of terms of state senators • State senators • Partisan composition of state senates • State senators sorted by year first elected

* * *

State houses|

Length of terms of state representatives • State representatives • Partisan composition of state houses • State representatives sorted by year first elected

* * *

Leadership positions|

President of the Senate • President Pro Tempore • Senate Majority Leader • Senate Minority Leader • House Majority Leader • House Minority Leader • State Speaker of the House

v • e

Ballotpedia

About|

Overview • What people are saying • Support Ballotpedia • Contact • Contribute • Job opportunities

* * *

Executive: Leslie Graves, Founder and CEO • Gwen Beattie, Chief Operating Officer

Communications: Alison Graves • Carley Allensworth • Abigail Campbell • Sarah Groat • Nathaniel Harwood • Dillon Redmond • Erica Shumaker
External Relations: Ashley Fleming • Thomas Mardik • Hannah Nelson
Operations: Meghann Olshefski • Amanda Herbert • Mandy Morris • Caroline Presnell • Kelly Rindfleisch
Policy: Michael Leland • Jon Dunn • Amy Handlin • Jimmy McAllister • Annelise Reinwald • Emma Soukup • Mina Vogel
Content Strategy: Josh Altic
Tech: Matt Latourelle • Ryan Burch • Kirsten Corrao • Beth Dellea • Travis Eden • Tate Kamish • Margaret Kearney • Eric Lotto • Joseph Sanchez • Mary Susmitha

Contributors: Scott Rasmussen

* * *

Editorial Content|

Geoff Pallay, Director of Editorial Content and Editor-in-Chief • Ken Carbullido, Vice President of Election Product and Technology Strategy • Norm Leahy, Senior Editor • Daniel Anderson, Managing Editor • Ryan Byrne, Managing Editor • Cory Eucalitto, Managing Editor • Mandy McConnell, Managing Editor • Doug Kronaizl, Local Elections Project Manager • Jaclyn Beran • Marielle Bricker • Joseph Brusgard • Emma Burlingame • Kelly Coyle • Thomas Ellis • Frank Festa • Nicole Fisher • Brianna Hosea • Joseph Greaney • Thomas Grobben • Jaime Healy-Plotkin • Tyler King • Glorie Martinez • Nathan Maxwell • Ellie Mikus • Jackie Mitchell • Ellen Morrissey • Mackenzie Murphy • Kaley Platek • Samantha Post • Adam Powell • Ethan Rice • Spencer Richardson • Victoria Rose • Briana Ryan • Myj Saintyl • Maddy Salucka • Maddie Sinclair Johnson • Abbey Smith • Alexis Thacker • Janie Valentine • Joel Williams • Samuel Wonacott • Trenton Woodcox

v • e

State of Alaska
Juneau (capital)

|

Elections |

What's on my ballot? | Elections in 2025 | How to vote | How to run for office | Ballot measures

Government |

Who represents me? | U.S. President | U.S. Congress | Federal courts | State executives | State legislature | State and local courts | Counties | Cities | School districts | Public policy