Juneau, Alaska – The Alaska House of Representatives Wednesday unanimously passed a bill to increase economic development throughout Alaska.

House Bill 71, sponsored by Representative Shelley Hughes, extends the Alaska Regional Economic Assistance program’s sunset date to June 30, 2016, allowing the continuation of Alaska Regional Development Organizations (ARDORs).

“Everyone agrees that further economic development and diversity in Alaska is more important now than ever,” Hughes, R-Palmer, said. “We love our oil but we know the three legged economic stool is wobbly. By passing this bill we are allowing the continuance of this important tool in our tool box for economic development in regions throughout our great state.”

HB 71 also includes language requiring the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development to prepare an annual report to the Legislature on economic projects and activities of the ARDORs to ensure accountability.

ARDORs were created in state statute in 1988, based on the premise that the best strategy is a locally-driven initiative where local leaders understand regional conditions, challenges and opportunities and engage in partnerships and projects to support regional economic development.

HB 71 passed the House by a vote of 39-0 and now moves to the Alaska Senate for consideration.