Having people in your corner is everything. That is exactly who we, as CHARR, want to be for you. I am here to learn from every one of you and to be your voice in every corner of our state. We’ ve already started that work with our Hospitality Conversations tour in Juneau and Ketchikan, and I can’ t wait to continue those real, raw discussions across the rest of Alaska. And part of showing up for you means carrying those conversations directly into the legislative arena, where your challenges must turn into action.
This past session brought significant challenges for our industry, with the biggest disappointment being the failure of HB 306( Civil Liability / Dram Shop Reform) to advance. This legislation had the potential to meaningfully reduce liability pressures and improve access to affordable liquor liability insurance, an issue that continues to strain businesses across Alaska. Moving this reform forward will remain my top priority heading into the next legislative session, but meaningful progress will require strong, united support from our industry.
Fishing on the Kenai- an obvious yearly activity that is never missed.
We need our industry to show up and be heard. Legislators want to hear directly from you, your experiences, your challenges, and the realities you face. We must flood Juneau with industry voices next session to build the support needed to move forward. Additionally, while SB 170( Electronic Pull tabs) did not advance, it still represents a promising opportunity to support nonprofits and bring new patrons into our establishments through a model that has seen success in other states. The path forward is clear: engagement, advocacy, and a united voice will be essential to creating change.
I’ ll be the first to admit I am still refining what it means to be in this seat. Between moving houses, leading a team, and mastering the CEO Speak, I’ m a bit of a work-in-progress. But I promise you this: I am here, I am listening, and I am advocating for you, even if I walk in soaked from the rain.
Talk Soon,
Exciting flight with K2 Aviation and landing on a Ruth Glacier BreeAnna K Erickson President & CEO, Alaska CHARR
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