The Senate Finance Committee forwarded the gubernatorial nomination of Anchorage attorney Jana Welsheen to the State Assessment Review Board to a joint legislative session for confirmation.

Welsheen, who established her own law firm in 2015, has spent more than a decade working on administrative law, property valuation issues, and tax assessment disputes.

The committee advanced her nomination without objection after she introduced herself during the afternoon meeting at the State Capitol.

"For more than 10 years, the focus of my practice has been on administrative law, regulatory matters, and land use, with a material portion of my work involving quasi-judicial proceedings, property valuation issues, and tax assessment disputes," Welsheen said.

Welsheen told the committee she has handled property assessment appeals and Department of Revenue audit determination matters, though none directly related to oil and gas. She said her work regularly involves developing evidentiary records and applying statutes and regulations to complex factual situations. She also advises clients on business valuations and negotiations, particularly where regulatory decisions impact asset value.

Beyond her legal practice, Welsheen served five years on the Anchorage Planning Board, where she participated in quasi-judicial hearings on property rights and land use decisions. She currently serves on the Alaska Advisory Oil and Gas Royalty Board, which works within the Department of Natural Resources to review proposed royalty transactions and prepare recommendations to the legislature.

"My experience on these boards has helped reinforce the importance of impartial, evidence-based decision-making and adhering to governing law," Welsheen said.

Welsheen, a lifelong Alaskan born in Fairbanks, also owns commercial property and works as a landlord, giving her practical experience with valuation methodologies and the financial impacts of property taxation.

She said the State Assessment Review Board requires members to have experience with property assessments. Her background handling assessment appeals, valuation disputes, and administrative proceedings directly aligns with that requirement.

"I believe the board plays a critical role in ensuring that assessments are fair and consistent and grounded in statute," Welsheen said. "If I am confirmed, I will approach that responsibility with neutrality, diligence, and a strong commitment to applying the law to the record before the board."

A senator moved to forward Welsheen's name to the joint session, noting the motion did not reflect intent by any members to vote for or against her during confirmation proceedings.