AK HB261

Adds deprivation of civil rights as a seventh category of coercion under AS 11.41.530, making it illegal to compel someone to abstain from exercising a legal right through threats or fear.

Establishes that public officials acting in good faith within the scope of their employment cannot use that status as a defense when prosecuted for coercion under the civil rights provision.

Elevates interference with constitutional rights from a class A misdemeanor to a class C felony under AS 11.76.110(c).

Applies all amended provisions to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act.