This bill establishes new regulations for electronic monitoring of fishing vessels using trawl gear in the finfish fishery in Alaska and creates a distinct administrative area for the commercial set net fishery on the east side of Cook Inlet. It mandates that vessels registered under AS 16.05.475 participate in an electronic monitoring program, provided certain conditions are met, such as existing electronic monitoring systems on board due to participation in federally managed fisheries. Additionally, the bill prohibits the commissioner from levying assessments or charges on participating commercial fishers to fund the costs of implementing or operating the electronic monitoring program.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the establishment of a new administrative area for the commercial set net fishery, separate from the existing Cook Inlet administrative area, and details the process for reassigning entry permits for individuals wishing to fish in this new area. It includes provisions for appeals regarding permit assignments and allows the Department of Fish and Game to adopt necessary regulations for implementation. The effective date for most provisions is set for January 1, 2027, while certain regulations can take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
HB0117A, AM HB 117, introduced 02/26/2025: 16.05.251, 16.05.680
HB0117B, AM CSHB 117(RES), introduced 04/07/2025: 16.05.251, 16.05.253, 16.05.680
HB0117C, AM SCS CSHB 117(RES), introduced 05/14/2026: 16.05.050, 16.05.251, 37.10.050, 16.05.475, C.F.R, 16.43.200, 16.43.150
HB0117Z, AM Enrolled HB 117, introduced 05/17/2026: 16.05.050, 16.05.251, 37.10.050, 16.05.475, C.F.R, 16.43.200, 16.43.150