This bill establishes a big game guide concession area permit program in Alaska, aimed at regulating and managing big game hunting activities on state land. It mandates the Board of Game to consider and approve proposals for establishing concession areas, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources. The bill outlines the process for public notice and comment, as well as the criteria for approval, which includes supporting conservation efforts, aiding enforcement of hunting regulations, and serving the public interest. The Board of Game is also tasked with determining the number of permits available for these concession areas.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language regarding the roles and responsibilities of various state departments and boards involved in the permit program. It specifies the qualifications for obtaining permits, the process for issuing them, and the conditions under which they can be transferred or revoked. The bill repeals certain existing statutes and establishes a timeline for the implementation of the program, including a transition period during which the Board of Game can only consider new proposals after the initial concession area has been established and the permit program has been in place for at least three years. The act is retroactive to July 23, 2024, and takes effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
SB0097A, AM SB 97, introduced 02/12/2025: 08.54.600, 16.05.263, 38.05.021, 08.54.591, 08.54.790, 08.54.750, 08.54.680, 08.54.760, 16.05.262, 38.05.022