Alaska Senate advances university regents reform bill with 2027 start date

The Alaska Senate advanced legislation Thursday that would restructure the University of Alaska Board of Regents. The bill now starts in 2027 and includes a six-year sunset clause so lawmakers can review how the changes work.

The Senate Finance Committee moved the effective date to Feb. 1, 2027, and set a sunset date of Feb. 1, 2033. The committee updated the fiscal note but did not change what the bill costs.

Five senators asked to join as cross-sponsors during Thursday's floor session: Kawasaki, Clayman, Wielechowski, Tobin, and Dunbar. The group included members from both the majority coalition and minority caucus.

The Senate adopted the Finance Committee substitute by unanimous consent after Senator Hoffman moved for adoption. The bill now moves to third reading on the next legislative calendar.

The Finance Committee split on its recommendation. Co-chairs Hoffman, Kaufman, Cronk, and member Keel signed a do-pass recommendation. Co-chair Steadman and member Merrick signed no recommendation.

Critics have raised concerns that the bill does not require board members to be Alaska residents. They argue that residency requirements would better ensure the board acts in Alaska's long-term interest.

The bill will come up for third reading when the Senate next convenes.