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Department of Labor and Workforce Development
 
Office of the Commissioner

Workers' Compensation Efficiencies Bill Signed By Governor Walker

Aug. 24, 2018
No. 18-35

FAIRBANKS, Alaska — Governor Bill Walker signed House Bill 79 in Fairbanks today. The legislation makes efficiencies in Alaska's workers' compensation system that will reduce administrative costs. It will also help combat worker misclassification by establishing a clear statutory definition of "independent contractor." In addition, the bill creates an interim legislative workers' compensation working group tasked with reviewing the workers' compensation system.

Today's bill signing was held in conjunction with the Alaska AFL-CIO Biennial Convention. "Injured workers and employers will both benefit from these changes to Alaska's workers' compensation system," said Governor Walker. "We are cutting costs while making workers' compensation work more efficiently."

"I'm proud Alaska is joining the many states fighting the growing problem of worker misclassification," said Labor Commissioner Heidi Drygas. "Providing a clear definition of independent contractor will help businesses be successful and in compliance, and will help workers clearly understand what constitutes independent contractor status."

Among others, the Alaska Truckers Association, the Alaska chapter of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, Painters Local 1959, and the Alaska Homebuilders Association all testified in support of the legislation. House Bill 79 also received broad bipartisan support from members of the Alaska House and Senate.

A group of people smile for cameras at the bill signing ceremony
Lt. Governor Mallott, Labor Commissioner Drygas, and Alaska's Labor leaders watch as Governor Walker signs HB 79, a Workers' Compensation efficiencies bill at the Alaska AFL-CIO Biennial Convention in Fairbanks.
A handshake at the signing ceremony
Governor Walker shakes hands with Bronson Frye with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local 1959, during a signing ceremony for HB79.
A group of people pose for cameras at the bill signing ceremony
Alaska's Labor leaders and Lt. Governor Mallott look on as Governor Walker signs HB 79, which will create efficiencies in Alaska's Workers' Compensation system.

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