Intro to Alaska Labor Laws

Starting this summer, private sector employers in Alaska must provide paid sick leave to qualifying employees. The law, still under development, sets different requirements based on employer size. Employers with fewer than 15 employees can cap sick leave accrual at 40 hours annually, while those with 15 or more employees must cap it at 56 hours. Paid sick leave can be used for personal or family illness, medical care, preventive care, or for issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

Employers will be required to provide written notice of this law that outlines when employees are entitled to sick leave. This notice should also include the amount of sick leave available and the terms in which they are able to utilize it as outlined by law. While the law does not specify if a state model will be published or how to provide the notice to employees, employers should monitor updates to create a written policy that complies with the latest regulations.

Alaska has enacted a law that will prohibit employers from requiring employees to attend or participate in meetings or communications about the employer's views on religious or political matters. This law is designed to protect employees against adverse action for refusing to participate in political or religious discussions unrelated to their job duties. While this law is still being developed, employers are encouraged to monitor for any potential updates and prepare to observe regulations.