AK SB91

Establishes an emergency energy relief program through the Alaska Energy Authority that provides payments to offset heating fuel costs for residential buildings when fuel prices exceed $3 per gallon during September 1 through March 31 of each fiscal year.

Limits payments to 600 gallons per single-family residence or 300 gallons per unit in multifamily buildings annually, and includes reimbursement for sales tax paid on eligible fuel purchases.

Requires landlords and lessors who receive payments to pass benefits to tenants through reduced rent, with retention of up to 10 percent of the payment for administrative costs; failure to comply constitutes a violation of consumer protection law.

Protects emergency energy relief payments from garnishment, levy, or debt collection until received; establishes civil liability and criminal penalties (class A misdemeanor) for improper receipt based on false information or misuse of subsidized fuel.

Excludes emergency energy relief payments from counting as income or resources for public assistance programs unless required by federal law, and makes recipients eligible for state-funded medical assistance if denied federal benefits solely due to receiving relief payments.