AK HB289

State agencies may pay private legal fees and costs for public officers and former public officers who are exonerated of Alaska Executive Branch Ethics Act violations.

Public officers and former public officers may accept state payments for legal fees incurred while defending against ethics complaints, with payments apportioned by alleged violation when multiple violations are alleged.

"Exoneration" is defined as dismissal of allegations under specific code sections, dismissal after appeal, or resolution solely with a recommendation for preventive action.

State resources may be used to transport spouses and children of the governor and lieutenant governor to non-partisan political events if the person travels with the governor/lieutenant governor and state is reimbursed, or if attendance benefits the state under specified circumstances.

New provisions define "partisan political purpose" as intended to differentially benefit or harm a candidate or political party, excluding actions intended to benefit the public interest through normal performance of official duties.