Alaska: Bills to Seal Marijuana Records and Lower Cannabis Taxes Introduced!

In February, two crucial cannabis bills were introduced (HB 81 and HB 91) in the Alaska legislature. These bills would correct outdated marijuana conviction laws and reduce the tax burden on cannabis consumers. 

First, HB 81, introduced by Representative David Nelson (R), would protect Alaskans with certain minor marijuana convictions by preventing public access to their records. Under this bill, individuals who were 21 or older and convicted of possessing less than one ounce of marijuana — without any other charges in the same case — can request that their records remain private. HB 81 would help reduce the stigma of past cannabis offenses, making it easier for affected individuals to succeed in life.

No one should lose out on a job, a place to live, or an education over something that is no longer a crime. Yet, too many Alaskans still face discrimination because their records remain accessible to employers, landlords, and institutions. HB 81 would help break this cycle, giving people a fair shot at success without an unnecessary mark against them.

Meanwhile, HB 91, introduced by Representative Ashley Carrick (D), is a major step forward towards strengthening Alaska's cannabis industry. This bill would cut the marijuana excise tax from a burdensome $50 per ounce to $12.50, making it easier for legal businesses to compete, and introduces a new 6% sales tax on cannabis products sold to consumers. It would also shift marijuana license renewals from annual to biennial, reducing costs and red tape for small businesses.

If you live in Alaska, let your lawmakers know you support Alaska's future and tell them to vote "yes" on HB 81 and HB 91!

This is about smart, fair policy. HB 81 gives people a second chance, and HB 91 makes legal cannabis more competitive and reduces red tape.