2004-01-20                     House Journal                      Page 2343
delays that could cost a producer the construction season, and may                                  
directly impact a decision on the feasibility of a project.                                         
                                                                                                    
DNR's assistance and guidance results in a good working relationship                                
with the applicant. It also results in early communication and                                      
explanation of state law requirements to applicants, complete initial                               
applications, quicker processing by DNR, fewer revisions, and a                                     
greater chance of approval of the project by DNR.                                                   
                                                                                                    
I urge your prompt and favorable action on this matter.                                             
                                                                                                    
                                Sincerely yours,                                                    
                                /s/                                                                 
                                Frank H. Murkowski                                                  
                                Governor"                                                          
                                                                                                    
                                                                                                    
HB 383                                                                                            
HOUSE BILL NO. 383 by the House Rules Committee by request of                                       
the Governor, entitled:                                                                             
                                                                                                    
     "An Act approving an interim classification by the commissioner                                
     of natural resources closing certain land within the area of the                               
     proposed Bristol Bay (Alaska Peninsula) competitive oil and gas                                
     areawide lease sale to oil and gas exploration licensing and                                   
     shallow natural gas leasing; and providing for an effective date."                             
                                                                                                    
was read the first time and referred to the House Special Committee on                              
Oil & Gas and the Resources Committee.                                                              
                                                                                                    
The following fiscal note(s) apply:                                                                 
                                                                                                    
1.  Zero, Dept. of Natural Resources                                                                
                                                                                                    
The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 12, 2004, follows:                                  
                                                                                                    
"Dear Speaker Kott:                                                                                 
                                                                                                    
Under the authority of article III, section 18, of the Alaska                                       
Constitution, I am transmitting a bill approving an interim