The bill establishes a new Department of Agriculture in Alaska, transferring relevant agricultural functions from the Department of Natural Resources. It includes significant amendments, such as changing references from the "commissioner of natural resources" to the "commissioner of agriculture," which outlines the new commissioner's powers and duties, including the regulation of agricultural practices, promotion of the agricultural industry, and management of industrial hemp production. The bill also introduces provisions for an elk farming license, management of noxious weeds and agricultural pests, and a forgivable loan program aimed at enhancing the state's food supply resilience. Additionally, it allows for online registration for noncommercial seed exchanges and clarifies that agricultural facilities complying with local soil conservation plans will not be considered a private nuisance.

Furthermore, the bill amends various sections of Alaska's land disposal laws, updating references to reflect the new authority of the commissioner of agriculture regarding agricultural land use and disposal decisions. It outlines the commissioner's responsibilities, including conducting land capability surveys and implementing soil conservation measures, and establishes the Alaska Soil and Water Conservation and Development Board to advise on effective land use practices. The bill aims to streamline agricultural governance and land management in Alaska while enhancing the role of the commissioner of agriculture. It is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB0128A, AM SB 128, introduced 03/12/2025: 03.05.010, 03.05.076, 03.20.130, 33.30.191, 03.05.027, 03.05.040, 03.05.050, 03.05.075, 03.05.090, 03.09.020, 03.10.040, 03.20.140, 03.20.110, 03.20.120, 44.38.020, 44.37.030, 03.20.200, 03.22.010, 03.22.040, 03.47.020, 03.47.030, 03.90.010, 09.45.235, 14.40.450, 16.20.310, 27.19.030, 37.05.146, 38.04.020, 38.05.055, 38.05.057, 38.05.065, 03.09.010, 38.04.030, 38.04.055, 38.05.020, U.S.C, 40.25.100, 40.25.295, 43.55.014, 38.05.035, 38.05.059, 38.05.069, 38.07.030, 38.07.010, 38.09.010, 41.10.040, 41.10.045, 41.10.100, 41.10.110, 41.10.120, 41.10.130, 41.10.140, 44.17.005, 44.37.020, 44.38.030, 44.62.330, 03.47.040