Bureau of the Budget Outlines Federal Challenges Created by Alaska Statehood (1958)

Date: July 17, 1958

Created By: Maurice H. Sans

Original or Replica: Original

Era: The Presidency, Alaska & Hawaii Statehood

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: DDE’s Records as President, Official File, Box 629, OF-147-D Alaska (4); NAID #12012409

This July 17, 1958 memorandum from Bureau of the Budget Director Maurice H. Stans advises President Dwight D. Eisenhower about the administrative challenges the federal government would face as Alaska transitioned from a territory to a state. Stans explains that Alaska’s unique geographic location and the extensive scope of federal programs there meant that statehood would significantly alter existing relationships between Alaska and the federal government. Unlike previous territories admitted as states, the transition would involve numerous agencies beyond the Department of the Interior.

To ensure an orderly transition, Stans recommends immediately identifying problems created by statehood, resolving policy questions, and preparing necessary amendments to federal laws and executive orders. He notes that the transition would affect the federal budget, government organization, legislation, and the responsibilities of multiple agencies. Stans therefore proposes that the Bureau of the Budget coordinate the executive branch’s response while working with the Department of the Interior and other federal agencies. He emphasizes that this arrangement would not reduce Interior’s existing responsibilities for administering Alaska’s transition. The memorandum provides insight into the extensive behind-the-scenes planning required to transform Alaska from a federal territory into the nation’s 49th state.