By James Brooks, Alaska BeaconSen. Jesse Bjorkman, R-Nikiski, speaks during a news conference on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Next to him is Sen. Bert Stedman, R-Sitka, a co-chair of the Senate Finance Committee. Senators voted 16-3 on Wednesday to approveNone of Alaska’s local governments currently tax the sale of real property, such as a commercial building or a home, but bill sponsor Sen. Jesse Bjorkman, R-Nikiski, said that real estate agents are concerned by the prospect and asked for action.
Sen. Jesse Kiehl, D-Juneau, said the bill represents an unusual step by the Legislature, which has traditionally declined to limit local governments’ power. The Alaska Municipal League, which represents local governments across the state, raised multiple concerns with the bill. He said the sales of individual homes are “considered casual and isolated,” which exempts them from local taxation.