Oil Production Tax in Alaska: An Evolution Away from a “True” Production Tax

by Andrew C. MacMillan

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Abstract

Alaska has long relied on taxing petroleum extraction as a key source of funding for the State. The oil production tax has changed dramatically since the first barrels of oil were taken from Alaskan land. Most noticeably, the production tax has adjusted its progressivity element and has moved from a gross tax to a net tax. This Note provides a historical reference to Alaska’s oil production taxation scheme in an effort to address whether it is a “true” production tax. Asserting that Alaska has departed from a “true” production tax scheme insofar as it more resembles an income tax, this Note assesses whether the State should return to a “true” production tax.

Oil Production Tax in Alaska: An Evolution Away from a “True” Production Tax

by Andrew C. MacMillan

Click here for a PDF file of this article

Abstract

Alaska has long relied on taxing petroleum extraction as a key source of funding for the State. The oil production tax has changed dramatically since the first barrels of oil were taken from Alaskan land. Most noticeably, the production tax has adjusted its progressivity element and has moved from a gross tax to a net tax. This Note provides a historical reference to Alaska’s oil production taxation scheme in an effort to address whether it is a “true” production tax. Asserting that Alaska has departed from a “true” production tax scheme insofar as it more resembles an income tax, this Note assesses whether the State should return to a “true” production tax.