On June 18, 2026, Alaska Governor Dunleavy vetoed 9 bills. The bills covered a range of topics, including a proposed Civil Rights Commission, psychiatric care of minors, and tax measures.
Bills Vetoed
The vetoed bills include HB 23, which would have renamed the State Commission for Human Rights to the Alaska State Commission for Civil Rights and expanded its authority. Governor Dunleavy cited concerns about the potential impact on small community organizations and the limits on his removal power as reasons for the veto.
Other vetoed bills include HB 52, which would have added new protections and oversight requirements for minors in psychiatric care facilities, and HB 195, which would have expanded pharmacists’ authority to prescribe certain medications. Governor Dunleavy expressed concerns about the potential for duplicative inspection and reporting requirements and the rapid expansion of pharmacist patient-care services.
The Governor also vetoed several tax-related bills, including HB 280, which would have updated corporate income tax apportionment rules, and SB 24, which would have imposed a tax on e-cigarettes and vapes. Governor Dunleavy argued that these measures were not part of a comprehensive fiscal plan and could have unintended consequences.
The vetoes have sparked debate and discussion among lawmakers and stakeholders, with some expressing disappointment and others supporting the Governor’s decisions.
Original reporting: Must Read Alaska (Anchorage) — read the source article.
