AK HCR1

Modifies Rule 34(b) of the Uniform Rules of the Alaska State Legislature to change voting and abstention requirements for members present in the house.

Members may now abstain from voting if the house permits abstention for special reasons, rather than requiring every member present to vote.

Members with a conflict of interest reasonably likely to influence their vote must request to be excused from voting and may not vote on their own abstention question.

Members requesting excusal must provide a brief oral statement of reasons, including specific provisions of AS 24.60 if applicable, before the house divides or roll call commences.

Abstentions are permitted only on the question of the member's own abstention or upon consent of three-fourths of the membership, changing the requirement from unanimous consent.