Bill > HB31

This bill makes several changes to Alaska's vessel registration and management laws. First, it adds an exemption to boat registration requirements for commercial vessels that have a valid U.S. Coast Guard certificate of documentation and a specific state-issued fishing license. Second, the bill eliminates the Derelict Vessel Prevention Program Fund, redirecting any proceeds from vessel sales to the state's general fund instead of a dedicated maritime fund. Specifically, when a state agency or municipality sells an abandoned or impounded vessel, the money will first be used to cover administrative costs, towing, handling, and storage expenses, then pay any existing liens, and finally give any remaining balance to the vessel's owner or deposit it into the general fund if the owner cannot be found. The bill also formally repeals the statutes related to the Derelict Vessel Prevention Program Fund, effectively ending that specific program. Any existing balance in the fund will lapse into the general fund, subject to legislative appropriation. These changes appear to streamline vessel management procedures and consolidate maritime-related financial resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB31