Legislature(2023 - 2024)
2024-01-22 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2024-01-22 House Journal Page 1329 HB 281 HOUSE BILL NO. 281 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act relating to the permitting, lease, and sale of state land for remote recreational cabin sites; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Fiscal, Dept. of Natural Resources 2024-01-22 House Journal Page 1330 The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 18 follows: "Dear Speaker Tilton: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18 of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the sale or lease of state land for remote recreational sites. This bill sets up a framework to encourage the settlement of state land and the development of its resources. With only 10 percent of state land in private ownership, we need changes to allow Alaskans to lease or purchase land for recreational purposes. This bill strikes the balance of allowing Alaskans a more efficient and fair process to obtain an interest in state land consistent with constitutional principles. The bill amends the current program for remote recreational sites to address eligibility, nomination, classification, and staking of remote recreational sites. The bill allows for eligible applicants to nominate up to 10 acres of available state land for a remote recreational site if not included in the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) schedule of land offerings. Purchasers must include a survey and appraisal of the site and agree to pay the remote recreational site's fair market value. Further, the bill would allow the Commissioner of DNR to issue a permit for a remote recreational site. This bill will increase the availability of land for recreational use and help make land available to Alaskans. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Mike Dunleavy Governor"