Alaska has one of the youngest populations in the country, but our youth face a number of problems. Alaska's infant mortality rate is worse than that of 41 other states, our child care system is inadequate, and our young people suffer from neglect and abuse, alcohol and drug problems, suicide, and unemployment.

The well-being of Alaska's youth is directly related to the future well-being of our entire state. With a concentrated approach, we can get many of these problems under control and make Alaska a better place for all of us.

It is in the best interests of the people of Alaska and necessary for efficient administration, that our policies and programs affecting our young people be coordinated and that a comprehensive plan be developed for a first class child care system, and that the governor and the legislature be advised about the needs and problems of our young people.

Therefore, I, Steve Cowper, Governor of the State of Alaska, under the authority of Article III of the Alaska Constitution and of AS 44.19.028 and 44.19.145(c), order the following:

Section 1. Creation and Composition

The Governor's Interim Commission on Children and Youth is hereby created within the Office of the Governor. The commission consists of the commissioners of health and social services, public safety, community and regional affairs, and education; the attorney general; three members of the House of Representatives; three members of the Senate; and eleven public members. A non-public member of the commission may designate an employee on the member's staff to serve on the commission as the member's alternate.

Section 2. Responsibilities

The Governor's Interim Commission on Children and Youth shall develop a comprehensive plan to provide for a first class child care system and shall address other problems facing our children and youth.

Section 3. Report

The Governor's Interim Commission on Children and Youth shall submit a report to me and the legislature by January 1, 1988. The report must include a plan for a first class child care system.

Section 4. Duration

The Governor's Interim Commission on Children and Youth shall cease to exist on May 10, 1988, unless it is extended by subsequent administrative order or legislation. The creation of the commission was first announced on March 16, 1987, and on May 13 I named its members and called its first meeting for June 12, 1987.

This order takes effect immediately.
DATED at Juneau, Alaska 11 June 1987.

By: S/S Steve Cowper            
Steve Cowper                    
Governor of the State of Alaska