AK HCR2

Urges Governor Bill Walker to establish a statewide policy addressing adverse childhood experiences and childhood trauma as contributing factors to societal problems.

Identifies that nearly two-thirds of Alaska adults report experiencing adverse childhood experiences, including abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction like domestic violence and substance abuse.

Estimates the direct and indirect cost of adverse childhood experiences to Alaska at approximately $774,000,000 annually across six categories including adult Medicaid, smoking, diabetes, binge drinking, arthritis, and obesity.

Notes that adults with four or more adverse childhood experiences are 4.7 times more likely to have depression, 4.2 times more likely to experience hunger, and 2.7 times more likely to be unable to work compared to those with zero such experiences.

Requests the Governor support evidence-based programs and research funding while directing the Legislature to incorporate principles of early childhood brain development and trauma-informed approaches into future policy decisions.