State serious about PFD inquiries

In response to recent letters implying that the governor’s office is non-responsive to the concerns of constituents who feel they are eligible for the Permanent Fund Dividend, I would like to let Alaska residents know that the governor’s office does, in fact, respond to the many who inquire about their PFD eligibility.

Governor Palin’s office receives all forms of correspondence, including phone calls, letters and e-mail. If an Alaska resident has a question or concern a PFD, the governor’s office routes the inquiry through the state Department of Revenue, where I personally research each individual circumstance. Based on my findings, Commissioner [Patrick S.] Galvin or the governor’s office responds to the Alaskan making the inquiry.

As permanent fund director, I make it a goal to provide a PFD response within three business days. Governor Palin has requested that Alaskans receive an answer to their questions within two weeks.

While it is my goal to make the application process easier and the time for an eligibility determination shorter, applicant eligibility is still governed by Alaska law. Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements can only be changed by an action of the state Legislature or by a change in PFD regulations that must conform to Alaska law.

Applicants who disagree with an eligibility decision made by this department have a legal right to appeal that decision.

Debbie Richter, director

Permanent Fund Dividend Division