Bill > HB198

This bill modifies Alaska state law regarding obstructing or hindering trapping activities by adding a new affirmative defense for individuals who disable traps or snares on public land. Specifically, a person can now legally disable a trap or snare if they were lawfully using a public trail, park, campsite, or other facility and had an objectively reasonable belief that disabling the trap was necessary to protect public welfare or private property. The bill also amends existing provisions related to damages in such cases, preventing individuals who successfully use this new affirmative defense from being sued for damages by the person whose trapping equipment was disabled. An affirmative defense means that even if a person technically violated the law, they can avoid legal penalties by proving specific circumstances that justify their actions. The changes aim to balance the rights of trappers with public safety concerns, particularly in areas of shared public land use.

Justice

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB198