The Alaska Public Offices Commission (APOC) has issued a final order rejecting the revival of previous campaign limits.

In 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court remanded Thompson v. Hebdon, asking the lower court to consider whether Alaska’s campaign contribution limits were consistent with previous First Amendment precedents.

The Ninth Circuit held the limitations on contributions made by individuals to candidates and groups were unconstitutional but held the limits from political parties to candidates were valid.

With this holding and no action by the state Legislature, Alaska does not have restrictions on individuals donating to candidates or groups other than political parties.

APOC was asked to consider reviving the limits set in 2003 but declined to do so.

The commission’s final order implores lawmakers to pass new campaign finance limits.

There are currently three bills introduced in the Legislature to limit political contributions.