Not to mention that a $700 million dividend like last year will create about a $70 million Federal tax for the 50% of Alaskans that on average pay a 20% effective tax rate.  Paying a dividend and income tax is hugely inefficient. If the argument for a dividend is to protect the unemployed or under employed than just increase unemployment benefits temporarily to help people find work, but don't tax working Alaskans so you can transfer money to unemployed forever.