Bill > SB174

This bill establishes the Alaska Invasive Species Council (AISC) within the Department of Fish and Game to coordinate and manage invasive species across the state. The council will be composed of representatives from various state agencies, the legislature, tribal entities, universities, and organizations focused on invasive species prevention and management. The council's primary responsibilities include facilitating cooperation between state, federal, tribal, and local agencies, recommending strategies for managing invasive species, providing guidance on prioritizing responses to invasive species occurrences, and recommending expenditures from a new invasive species response fund. The bill defines invasive species as non-native organisms that could cause economic, environmental, or health harm, and "managing" such species means taking actions to prevent or minimize their harmful effects. The council will be required to prepare and present a five-year strategic plan to the legislature every odd-numbered year and an annual report detailing invasive species activities. Council members will serve three-year staggered terms without compensation, except for state employee members who will receive per diem and travel expenses. An invasive species response fund is created to support these management efforts, and the council and its associated provisions are set to be automatically repealed on July 1, 2035, unless renewed by future legislative action.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB174