Senate committee advances resolution recognizing Alaska–Canada relationship

The Alaska Senate Resources Committee on April 14 advanced House Joint Resolution 11, a nonbinding measure recognizing the historic economic, security and social ties between Alaska and Canada.

Representative Chuck Kopp, sponsor of the resolution in the House (House District 10), told the committee the measure is meant to reaffirm cooperation rather than reflect partisan differences. "Alaska and Canada are more than neighbors. We are partners. We are allies, and we are friends," Kopp said, and described the resolution as "a reaffirmation of our commitment to diplomacy, economic stability, and mutual respect, with Canada and Alaska." He noted that cross‑border commerce supports thousands of jobs and longstanding family ties.

Committee members heard the resolution for a second time. Kopp said he had set an amendment deadline of April 11 and that no amendments were offered. The chair opened and then closed public testimony after finding no one present in the room or online wishing to speak. Senator Wilikowski moved to report the committee substitute for HJR 11 from committee with individual recommendations and attached fiscal notes; the motion was adopted without objection and the measure was forwarded for further legislative consideration. The motion language recorded in the hearing was: "move to report the CS for HCR 11 resources amended work order 34LS0532\8.A. Out of committee with individual recommendations and attached fiscal notes, legislative legal has the authority to make any necessary technical and conforming changes." The record does not show a roll‑call vote or a second.

The committee asked representatives to remain after the meeting to sign transmittal paperwork for the measure. No members of the public provided testimony on this item during the hearing.