State Government

When Alaska became a state, the government created by the Alaska Constitution went into effect. The constitution closely modeled Alaska's state government after the U.S. government, with many of the same core principles and structures. It has three separate branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has specific powers and the ability to check the other two branches. This constitutional separation of powers is meant to ensure the government does not abuse its power.

For a bill introduced in the legislature to become a law, it must first pass both chambers with a majority vote. The governor then has 15 days to sign or veto the bill. Unsigned bills become law. The legislature can override a governor's veto with a two-thirds vote. A three-fourths majority is required to override a veto of an appropriation (spending) or tax bill.

The Alaska Constitution also gives the people of the state legislative powers. Alaska citizens can enact laws through the initiative process and reject acts of the legislature by referendum. For proposed initiatives or referendums to get on a ballot, a sufficient number of voters must sign a petition. Once on the ballot, initiatives or referendums are approved or rejected by a majority vote. They can not be vetoed by the governor nor repealed by the legislature for two years.

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