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Arctic Yearbook 2015
Alaska’s Arctic Policy now in statute
During the Fall of 2014, the AAPC collectively produced a draft Alaska Arctic Policy bill for
consideration by the Legislature. The Legislature subsequently passed HB 1. After being heard and
altered in several committees, the policy differs from the AAPC draft, but is substantively similar. The
bill took effect August 9, 2015 and is codified in Alaska Statute 44.99.105. The policy consists of four
pillars:
Uphold the state’s commitment to economically vibrant communities sustained by
development activities consistent with the state's responsibility for a healthy environment;
Collaborate with all levels of government, tribes, industry, and nongovernmental organizations
to achieve transparent and inclusive Arctic decision-making;
Enhance the security of the Arctic region of the state and, thereby, the security of the entire
state; and
Value and strengthen the resilience of communities and respect and integrate the culture,
language, and knowledge of Arctic peoples.
This law, now officially Alaska’s Arctic Policy, is intended as an overarching guide for the AAPC’s
Implementation Plan.
Alaska’s Arctic Policy Effort