Building on the foundation set during 2007 and 2008, Senator Hollis French has once again introduced a Massachusetts-style health reform proposal for consideration during 2009. This new bill, Senate Bill 61, responds to several innovations and observations from around the country.

The new bill can be viewed here: Senate Bill 61

The bill packet can be viewed here: Senate Bill 61 Complete Bill Packet

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2007-2008: Senate Bill 160

For the first time in decades, the 25th Alaska State Legislature seriously considered universal health coverage. Though Senate Bill 160 did not pass into law, it did pass out of two committees in the Senate. That process created a solid foundation for future health reform efforts in Alaska. To learn all about SB 160, download the latest bill packet.

Constructing the solution will require patience and resolve. Massachusetts, which recently implemented a far reaching health reform plan, has a long history of considering health care reform; in 1988, universal care policy was even passed into law, but their implementation of the plan faltered. California, on the verge of a bipartisan health care breakthrough, has been considering options to cover all citizens for decades. By learning from these efforts, Alaska can be brought up to speed in years, and not decades.

Consider, for instance, the health reform victories last session. SB 160 was heard on eight different occasions, and four new drafts of the legislation were prepared, with changes inspired by numerous legislators and health stakeholders from across the state. National experts traveled to Alaska to weigh in, providing prospective from other efforts. Numerous articles and news reports put the issue on the front burner, showing Alaskans that changes are on the way. Editorials and letters to the editor will continue pushing the question. In time, a solution will become inevitable.

Work continues on Senate Bill 160 today. The 26th Alaska State Legislature will convene in January 2009, and a new version of the legislation can be introduced at that time.