HB 320, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Meyer, R-Anchorage, would include search and rescue volunteers under that coverage.

“Alaska’s back-country, though beautiful and majestic, is also dangerous and unforgiving,” Meyer said. “When accidents or deaths do occur, the rescue efforts include not just state workers but also a significant number of volunteers, and they deserve the same benefits as their peers in other classifications.”

The legislation also allows municipalities to provide coverage to volunteers but does not mandate the coverage.