Legislature(2003 - 2004)
2003-03-06 Senate Journal
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Full Journal pdf2003-03-06 Senate Journal Page 0412 was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Fish and Game Fiscal Note No. 2, Department of Fish and Game Governor's transmittal letter dated March 5: Dear President Therriault: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill that raises additional revenues for fish and wildlife management programs in Alaska. Alaska's fish and wildlife is a public resource enjoyed by a variety of users from hunters, trappers and anglers to wildlife viewers, many of whom travel to Alaska to utilize our abundant resources. This legislation ensures that the cost of wildlife management is shared more broadly with those who use and enjoy our wildlife, and that the Alaska Department of Fish and Game has the resources necessary to manage Alaska's fish and wildlife resources. Under this bill, wildlife viewers using certain commercial services will be required to help support management of Alaska's wildlife by purchasing a $15 annual "wildlife conservation pass" unless they hold another qualifying license or permit. Funds generated will be deposited into a separate account of the general fund and may be used for wildlife management, research, education, and viewing programs. Alaska is a world class visitor destination, and viewing wildlife is one of the primary visitor attractions. The abundance of wildlife throughout the state provides tremendous economic development opportunities. These user funds will help support wildlife management programs and in so doing will support Alaska's growing tourism industry. Funds from this bill will be used in part to match new federal dollars Alaska is receiving through the State Wildlife Grants Program. This bill also raises the big game tag fees for non-resident and non- resident alien hunters to harvest caribou, moose, goats, and sheep.