This bill establishes a new administrative area for the regulation of commercial set net entry permits on the east side of Cook Inlet, as identified by the Alaska State Legislature. It amends existing law to create a distinct administrative area separate from the current Cook Inlet administrative area, specifically designating statistical areas 244-21, 244-22, 244-31, 244-32, 244-41, and 244-42 of the Upper Subdistrict of the Cook Inlet Central District. The bill outlines that entry permits for the existing Cook Inlet area will not automatically apply to the new administrative area unless reassigned by the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the transition of entry permits, allowing individuals holding permits for the Cook Inlet area to renew them for the new administrative area starting January 1, 2026, provided they can demonstrate participation in the fishery within the specified statistical areas. It also allows for appeals against decisions made by the commission regarding permit assignments, with a deadline for appeals set for March 1, 2026. The effective date for the provisions of this Act is January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0158A, AM SB 158, introduced 04/07/2025: 16.43.200, 16.43.150