The bill amends various sections of Alaska's statutes to include provisions related to finfish farming and the regulation of finfish farm products. Key changes include the definition of "agricultural facility" and "agricultural operation," which now explicitly mention aquatic or finfish farming. The bill establishes a new permitting system for finfish farms, requiring operators to obtain a triennial finfish farm permit to cultivate finfish commercially. It also specifies that all finfish at these farms must be triploid, meaning they are sterile, and outlines the commissioner’s authority to regulate the operation, siting, and management of finfish farms to protect natural fish and wildlife resources.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding the Board of Fisheries and the powers of the commissioner of environmental conservation, ensuring that finfish farming is subject to oversight and compliance with health and safety standards. It introduces definitions for finfish and finfish farm products, clarifying the scope of the new regulations. The bill aims to enhance the state's ability to manage and promote finfish farming while safeguarding the environment and public health. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
SB0108A, AM SB 108, introduced 02/24/2025: 09.45.235, 16.05.050, 16.05.251, 37.10.050, 16.40.120, 16.40.130, 16.40.100, 16.40.220, 16.05.930, 16.05.920, 16.05.921, 16.05.330, 16.05.723, 16.10.269, 16.10.265, 16.10.267, 16.40.210, 16.05.080, 16.40.230, 16.43.940, 16.51.180, 16.40.199, 17.20.005, 17.20.017, 17.20.013, 17.20.070, 17.20.200, 17.20.370