Legislature(2019 - 2020)
2020-01-22 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2020-01-22 Senate Journal Page 1540 SB 159 SENATE BILL NO. 159 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to salt water sport fishing operators and salt water sport fishing guides; and providing for an effective date." 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 Governor's transmittal letter dated January 21: Dear President Giessel: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill regarding sportfish guide and operator licensing. This bill would reinstitute the salt water sport fishing guide and operator licensing standards, salt water guide and operator fees, and logbook reporting requirements for salt water guides. The logbook data provided by salt water fishing guides provides critical information that informs in season management. The Board of Fisheries management plans also benefit from updated and complete information. 2020-01-22 Senate Journal Page 1541 The data obtained through the logbook reporting requirement is critical for the Department of Fish and Game to successfully uphold the State of Alaska’s Pacific Salmon Treaty obligations. Under the treaty the state is required to issue logbooks and collect data, however the mandate is unfunded. This bill would re-establish the license fees for sport salt water fishing guide services to cover the costs of the mandated program. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Mike Dunleavy Governor