Senator Olson's Bill For Genetic Privacy
Passes Senate Judiciary

Senate Bill 217, sponsored by Senator Donny Olson (D-Nome), would make it illegal for insurers to deny coverage based on someone's DNA/genetic information while still allowing results from DNA tests to be used in law enforcement and paternity cases.

Senate Bill 217 now goes to the Senate floor.

Senator Elton's Bill to Require Labeling of Fish
Passes Senate Resources

Senator Kim Elton at a recent Senate Minority Press Availability

Senate Bill 281, sponsored by Senator Kim Elton (D-Juneau), in an effort to address concerns raised by consumer, environmental, health, and Alaskan fish marketing groups, requires Alaskan retailers to identify and label foods containing fish and shellfish, or fish and shellfish products that have been genetically modified. Under current federal rules, genetically modified (GM) fish and fish products cannot be used or sold in the US. Currently, there are no GM fish on the market, but there are applications to the FDA to develop such fish.

This bill was recommended by the Joint Legislative Salmon Industry Task Force, a special committee created by the legislature to respond to the concerns of the salmon industry statewide. Senator Elton is a member of the Task Force. The task force, comprised of legislators and members of the industry, explored how the Legislature can help Alaska's commercial salmon industry reclaim lost market share and expand into new markets.

Senate Bill 281 [sponsor statement] now goes to Senate Finance.

Upcoming Events-

Tuesday, March 9th- The next meeting of the Joint Legislative Health Caucus will take place from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the Butrovich/Fahrenkamp room in the Capitol. Statewide teleconferencing will be available. The meeting will focus on work force development efforts in Alaska's health care industry. "Does Alaska Health Training Make the Grade?" will address the demands of a growing industry and the increasing need for a trained workforce. Discussion will focus on current efforts and initiatives, as well as promising solutions for this sustainable, growing industry. Co-chairs Representative Sharon Cissna and Senator Donny Olson will moderate the meeting. For more information on how to participate, call your local legislative information office, or contact Rep. Cissna's Juneau office at 1-800-922-3875.

Thursday, March 11th - Senator Georgianna Lincoln (D-Rampart) will speak at the Bill Egan Forum at the Baranof Hotel (Juneau) beginning at noon. The title of the talk is "The Alaska Senate and Beyond." Dennis Kucinich, Democratic presidential candidate, will also be a special guest.

Putting Alaskans First - Moving Alaska Forward