I, Walter J. Hickel, Governor of the State of Alaska, under the authority of article III of the Alaska Constitution and Alaska Statute 44.19.145(c), establish the Governor's Task Force on Eligibility and Residency for the Pioneers' Homes.

Section 1. BACKGROUND

Due to recent legal developments and an expanding senior population in the State of Alaska, it is appropriate to convene a Governor's Task Force to examine the issues of eligibility and residency for purposes of admission to the Pioneers' Homes. The Task Force will provide a means for the consideration of a wide variety of concerns and viewpoints of Alaskans on these issues, as well as a coordinated vehicle for providing recommendations on these issues.

Section 2. DUTIES OF TASK FORCE

The Governor's Task Force on Eligibility and Residency for the Pioneers' Homes shall:

a. examine the issues of eligibility and residency for purposes of admission to the Pioneers' Homes, including a constitutionally permissible point preference or other system for admission and development of a formula that would give preference to long-term Alaskans to the extent permitted by law;

b. make recommendations to the Governor on these issues, including possible statutory or regulatory changes to implement the recommendations, and present its recommendations by July 7, 1994;

c. hold public hearings as determined appropriate.

Section 3. MEMBERS OF TASK FORCE

The members of the Governor's Task Force on Eligibility and Residency for Pioneers' Homes shall be appointed by the Governor. Members shall include the folio wing:

a. Attorney General or designee

b. Commissioner of the Department of Administration or designee

c. Commissioner of the Department of Health and Social Services or designee

d. Member of the Pioneers' Homes Advisory Board

e. Member of the Older Alaskans Commission

f. Two legislators with experience in seniors' programs

g. Public member representative of the senior community in Alaska

h. Outside legal counsel as appropriate.

Section 4. ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT FOR TASK FORCE

The Department of Law will serve as lead agency for the Task Force and, with the appropriate personnel in the Department of Administration, will provide professional and technical assistance to support the activities of the Task Force.

This order takes effect immediately.

DATED at Juneau, Alaska, this 4 day of Feb, 1994.

S/S Walter J. Hickel     
Walter J. Hickel         
Governor