By Ariel McConnell
Source: National Public Pension Coalition
After nearly two decades without a defined benefit pension system for public employees, Alaska is one step closer to reversing course. On May 12, 2025, the Alaska House of Representatives passed House Bill 78 —a historic move toward restoring secure retirement benefits for public servants across the state. The final vote was 21-19. The bill has now been transmitted to the Senate.
This victory follows months of growing momentum, public support, and determined advocacy from public employees, community leaders, and organizations like the Alaska Public Pension Coalition. HB 78, initially introduced by the House Finance Committee, aims to reestablish a defined benefit retirement system for new public employees—a system that would offer greater financial security and stability than the current defined contribution model.