In memory of Kerstie, who was always the first person to offer assistance, we propose Kerstie's Law in Alaska. With her passing, it becomes apparent that we lack sufficient strategies to protect individuals from deaths that are staged to look like suicides or accidents, allowing perpetrators to escape justice. This law focuses on comprehensive preventative measures and reforms, including:

1. Mandatory Comprehensive Investigations into the deaths of individuals with a known or suspected history of domestic violence victimization.
2. Mandatory Autopsy Requirement that includes a thorough 10-point checklist that is strictly enforced.
3. Specialized Law Enforcement Training to better equip our officers in handling cases where deceased individuals were suspected victims of domestic violence.
4. Establish a designated oversight body to annually review domestic violence-related deaths classified as suicide, accidental, or undetermined, and submit a report to the legislature identifying trends, disparities, and recommended reforms.
5. Ensure victims' families are informed of their right to request a review of investigations involving domestic violence history and provide access to victim advocacy services during death investigations.

In the U.S, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, equivalent to more than 10 million individuals annually (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence). In Alaska, the rate of domestic violence is 8 times higher than the national average (Alaska Department of Public Safety), making it crucial to take immediate action.

In the name of Kerstie, and all those who've been victims of domestic violence, we urge the lawmakers in Alaska to consider implementing Kerstie's Law. Not only will this law pay tribute to Kerstie's generous spirit and willingness to help others, but it will also address a crucial gap in our current system, hopefully preventing future fatalities. Please extend your support by signing this petition today.