Legislature(2023 - 2024)
2024-01-18 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2024-01-18 House Journal Page 1301 HB 272 HOUSE BILL NO. 272 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act relating to big game hunts for persons with physical disabilities; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Resources Committee. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Zero, Dept. of Fish & Game 2024-01-18 House Journal Page 1302 The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 16 follows: "Dear Speaker Tilton: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18 of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to big game hunts for persons with physical disabilities. This bill would authorize the Board of Game to establish annual big game hunting seasons in appropriate areas of the State for persons with physical disabilities. Under existing law, a "person with physical disabilities" is one who provides documentation to the Department of Fish and Game that he or she receives at least 70 percent disability compensation from a government entity or an affidavit from an Alaska licensed physician that he or she is at least 70 percent physically disabled. A physically disabled person participating in a hunt authorized by the bill would be required to be accompanied by a licensed hunter capable of retrieving game. In 2001, to encourage adults to take children hunting, the "Take-A- Child-Hunting" bill was enacted to allow the Board of Game to establish annual hunting seasons for children accompanied by family members to participate in big game hunts. This bill would create a similar opportunity for persons with physical disabilities to participate in big game hunts. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Mike Dunleavy Governor"