This bill establishes a big game guide concession area permit program in Alaska, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources. It outlines the responsibilities of the Big Game Commercial Services Board, the Board of Game, and the Department of Fish and Game in coordinating the establishment of these concession areas. The Board of Game is tasked with approving proposals for these areas, which will be limited to specific game management units or subunits. The bill also mandates that the Board of Game consult with relevant departments and take public comments before making decisions on the proposals.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language that defines the types of permits available, including full and limited big game guide concession area permits, and sets forth the criteria for their issuance. It emphasizes the importance of conservation, user conflict reduction, and the promotion of a healthy guiding industry. The bill also includes provisions for the initial establishment of a concession area and outlines a transition period during which the Board of Game can only consider new proposals after the initial 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
SB0097Z, AM Enrolled SB 97, introduced 05/16/2025: 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