Bill > SB158

This bill establishes a new administrative area on the east side of Cook Inlet for regulating commercial set net fishing entry permits. Specifically, the bill creates a distinct administrative area comprising six specific statistical areas within the Upper Subdistrict of the Cook Inlet Central District, which will be separated from the existing Cook Inlet administrative area as of January 1, 2026. Set net entry permits previously valid for the broader Cook Inlet administrative area will not automatically apply to this new area; permit holders will need to demonstrate their historical fishing activity in these specific statistical areas within the five years preceding December 31, 2024, to have their permits reassigned. Acceptable proof of participation includes shore fisheries leases, area registrations, buoy tags, or previous fishing statistics. The bill also provides a mechanism for individuals to appeal the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission's decisions regarding permit reassignment, including the option to receive a provisional entry permit during the appeal process. The definition of "immediate family member" is broadly defined to include spouses, partners, children, parents, siblings, and extended family members, which could be relevant for permit transfers. The new administrative area and its associated permit regulations will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Business and Industry

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB158