By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living
Alaska made consequential moves this week, from a court ruling that keeps pressure on the state’s prison health care system to the opening bell of a 2026 campaign, alongside community efforts that put care into action. Here’s what’s moving across the state.
Judge Keeps ACLU Lawsuit Against DOC Alive
A judge denies the State of Alaska’s attempt to dismiss the ACLU of Alaska’s lawsuit challenging health care conditions inside state prisons. The case, Vail v. Dunleavy, alleges unconstitutional and inhumane medical care for incarcerated Alaskans. After arguments last summer, the ruling allows the case to proceed toward further litigation, keeping the Department of Corrections under judicial scrutiny.
Read more: https://www.acluak.org/cases/vail-v-dunleavy/
Tom Begich Kicks Off 2026 Campaign in Fairbanks
Tom Begich launched his 2026 campaign in Fairbanks, calling the event the start of a statewide push toward the August 18 primary. He named former Sen. Scott Kawasaki and former Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson as campaign co-chairs, emphasizing grassroots organizing and voter turnout as the campaign looks ahead to November.
Alaska Zoo Calls for Donations to Support Animals Through Winter
The Alaska Zoo is asking the public to donate paper wrapping paper and peanut butter for animal enrichment and cold-weather treats. Donations can be dropped off at the zoo’s admissions building daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Zoo Lights runs one final evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. before pausing until Valentine’s weekend.
Kaladi Brothers Brews Record Support for Covenant House Alaska
Kaladi Brothers Coffee raised $82,150 for Covenant House Alaska during its New Year’s Day Giving event. The total includes partner contributions, online promotions, tumbler sales, and all New Year’s Day beverage sales. First National Bank Alaska led partner donations, joined by more than a dozen Alaska businesses and hundreds of community members who showed up to give back.
