This bill establishes a big game guide concession area permit program in Alaska, aimed at regulating and managing big game hunting on state land. It amends existing laws to require the Board of Game to approve proposals for establishing big game guide concession areas, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources. The Board of Game is tasked with determining the number of permits available for guides and ensuring that the establishment of these areas supports conservation efforts, aids in enforcement of hunting regulations, and serves the public interest. The bill also outlines the process for public notice and comment, as well as the criteria for permit issuance.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the administration of the permit program, emphasizing conservation, user conflict reduction, and the promotion of a healthy guiding industry. It specifies that permits will be issued through a competitive process and sets limitations on the number of permits a guide can hold. The bill also allows for the transfer of permits under certain conditions and establishes a framework for the suspension or revocation of permits if violations occur. Notably, it repeals certain existing statutes and includes a transition period for the implementation of the new program, retroactively effective from July 23, 2024.

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