This bill aims to amend the distribution of tax revenue from the fisheries business tax and fishery resource landing tax to municipalities in Alaska. It introduces new provisions that require municipalities to use a portion of the additional revenue for maintaining and improving harbor facilities if they operate such facilities. The bill also mandates that municipalities receiving tax revenue must submit annual reports to the legislature detailing how the funds were utilized, particularly for harbor maintenance or improvement projects. Notably, municipalities that receive less than $10,000 in tax revenue are exempt from this reporting requirement.

Key amendments include changes to the percentages of tax revenue allocated to various municipalities. For instance, the bill increases the percentage of tax revenue distributed to unified municipalities and cities in the unorganized borough from 50% to 60%, and to cities within boroughs from 25% to 35%. Additionally, it modifies the percentages for boroughs and cities incorporated after specific dates, adjusting the distribution rates to better reflect the needs of newly established municipalities. The bill also establishes a new requirement for municipalities to allocate a certain percentage of the funds received to support or enhance commercial fishing. The effective dates for various sections of the bill are staggered, with some provisions taking effect in 2026 and others in 2035.

Statutes affected:
SB0135A, AM SB 135, introduced 03/18/2025: 43.75.130, 43.75.137, 37.07.080, 29.60.450, 43.77.060, 43.77.050, 43.75.150
SB0135B, AM CSSB 135(RES), introduced 04/15/2025: 43.75.130, 43.75.137, 37.07.080, 29.60.450, 43.77.060, 43.77.050, 43.75.150