For Immediate Release: April 24th, 2014
Senator Wielechowski Applauds Passage of HB 378
Bill includes SB 141 provisions eliminating National Guard member’s vehicle registration fees
JUNEAU – Today Senator Bill Wielechowski (D-Anchorage) applauded the passage of HB 378 which included provisions of
Senate Bill 141, sponsored by Senator Wielechowski, eliminating all vehicle
registration fees for active members of the Alaska National Guard.
“From fighting fires to rescuing Alaskans in emergencies, the men and women in the Guard help
when times are tough. Providing reduced vehicle registration is one small thing we can do for them in
return,” stated Senator Wielechowski.
Similar legislation to SB 141 exists in Virginia, while seven other states provide free vehicle
registration for their members. This benefit would add to other benefits members of Alaska’s National
Guard already receive, such as free hunting and fishing licenses, job training, low cost insurance, and
tuition assistance and student loan repayment bonuses.
“Alaska National Guard members only receive base pay when called to state active duty, and do
not receive housing or subsistence allowances. This bill would provide a state benefit to help
compensate for the loss of income that soldiers and airmen take when leaving their civilian jobs to
support our state directly. We are so thankful that our state legislators understand the Alaska National
Guard and go to great lengths to support us. We also would like to thank Senator Wielechowski for
moving this issue forward for our members,” said Stephen Burris, President of the Alaska National Guard
Enlisted Association.
For more information contact Senator Wielechowski at (907) 465-2435. ###
