In a move aimed at attracting and retaining top talent in the state, Alaska has announced a significant expansion of employee benefits for 2026. The new benefits package, which will go into effect on March 1st, includes a range of offerings designed to improve the overall well-being and job satisfaction of state employees.One of the key additions to the benefits package is an increase in paid time off for employees. Starting next month, all state employees will accrue an additional five days of paid time off per year, bringing the total to 25 days for full-time employees. This extra time off is intended to provide employees with more flexibility to take care of personal and family responsibilities, as well as to rest and recharge.Another notable change is the introduction of a new employee wellness program. The program will offer a variety of resources and support services to help employees improve their physical and mental health, such as gym discounts, access to wellness coaches, and mental health counseling services. Alaska Governor Sarah Johnson emphasized the importance of supporting employee well-being in a statement, saying, "Our employees are our most valuable asset, and it's crucial that we provide them with the tools and resources they need to thrive both in and out of the workplace."In addition to these new benefits, Alaska is also expanding its parental leave policy. Starting next month, new parents – both mothers and fathers – will be eligible for 12 weeks of paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child. This policy change aims to support employees as they navigate the challenges of balancing work and family responsibilities.Overall, the expansion of employee benefits in Alaska reflects a commitment to creating a positive and supportive work environment for state employees. By investing in the well-being of its workforce, the state hopes to increase employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and ultimately improve the quality of services provided to the residents of Alaska. With these new benefits set to roll out in just a few weeks, employees across the state have much to look forward to in the year ahead.