Yako William Collins v. State of Alaska

Summary

The court held that legislation labeled as a clarification cannot be applied retroactively to displace a binding judicial interpretation when the legislation substantively changes the law. Because the prior court of appeals decision was final and binding when the legislature enacted the amendments, retroactive application of any substantive change would implicate separation of powers and ex post facto principles. The court reversed and remanded for the court of appeals to determine whether the amendments were procedural and therefore capable of retroactive application.