Legislature(2003 - 2004)
2004-01-14 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2004-01-14 Senate Journal Page 1930 SB 266 SENATE BILL NO. 266 BY THE SENATE 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 Community and Regional Affairs and Resources Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Natural Resources Governor's transmittal letter dated January 12: Dear President Therriault: Under the authority of article III, section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill approving an interim classification by the commissioner of Natural Resources closing certain land in the Bristol Bay region to oil and gas exploration licensing under AS 38.05.131 through AS 38.05.134 and shallow natural gas leasing under AS 38.05.177. The specific lands affected will be part of a future competitive oil and gas lease sale in the Bristol Bay region. Closure avoids potential conflicts in land use for these areas later, when the proposed competitive oil and gas lease sale occurs. 2004-01-14 Senate Journal Page 1931 Under AS 38.05.300(c), a mineral closing order is an interim classification which does not become permanent unless approved by th the legislature by the 90 day of the next regular session, or adjournment. This legislation will help facilitate needed economic development and job creation in Alaska's Bristol Bay region. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely yours, /s/ Frank H. Murkowski Governor