| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review of the Department of Health and Social Services, Alaska Commission on Aging, July 3, 2007. |
Purpose of the Report
In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed the activities of the Alaska Commission on Aging. Under AS 44.66.010(a)(4), the Alaska Commission on Aging (ACoA or commission) will terminate on June 30, 2008. If the legislature does not take action to extend the termination date, the commission will go into a wrap-up year to conclude its affairs and will terminate on June 30, 2009. The purpose of this audit is to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for the continued existence of the commission.
Report Conclusions
In our opinion, the Alaska Commission on Aging is helping older Alaskans lead dignified, independent, and productive lives. We recommend the legislature adopt legislation extending ACoA’s termination date to June 30, 2016
Findings and Recommendations
The legislature should consider amending state law to reflect ACoA’s current mission.
The grant administration responsibilities for ACoA, as defined in state law [1], are no longer performed by the commission; rather, these duties are now being done by the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), Division of Seniors and Disabilities Services (DSDS). However, Alaska statutes have not been updated to accurately reflect these changes. As a result, ACoA has not accomplished some of its statutory duties and responsibilities as currently written. The ACoA chairman and DHSS’ commissioner should pursue changes to Alaska statutes so they are reflective of ACoA’s current role.
[1] AS 47.45.24(a)(7-8), AS 47.65.010-050, and AS 47.45.230