The bill establishes the Alaska Invasive Species Council within the Department of Fish and Game to enhance the management of invasive species in the state. The council will serve as an advisory body, facilitating cooperation among various state and federal agencies, tribal entities, and non-governmental organizations. Its responsibilities include recommending strategies for managing invasive species, providing guidance to state agencies, and preparing strategic plans and annual reports on invasive species and their impacts. The council will consist of members appointed by the governor, including representatives from the University of Alaska, tribal organizations, and various state departments, with provisions for inviting additional nonvoting advisory members.

Additionally, the bill creates an Invasive Species Response Fund to support the management of invasive species, allowing the Department of Fish and Game to utilize appropriated funds without further appropriation. The council is required to adopt bylaws for its operation, hold regular meetings, and report on its activities and findings to the legislature. The bill also includes a provision for the council's initial appointments and meetings, ensuring that the council is operational within a specified timeframe. The provisions of the bill are set to be repealed on July 1, 2035.

Statutes affected:
SB0174A, AM SB 174, introduced 04/14/2025: 16.20.820, 41.10.130, 16.20.810, 16.20.850, 16.20.800
SB0174B, AM HCS SB 174(FIN), introduced 05/19/2026: 03.55.080, 03.55.095, 28.10.421, 03.55.200, 03.55.240, 03.55.210, 03.55.220, 03.55.230, 16.05.255, 29.35.052, 16.05.930, 16.20.820, 41.10.130, 16.20.810, 16.20.850, 16.20.800, 28.10.181, 37.05.146, 43.23.130, 43.23.200, 18.67.162, 37.05.142
SB0174Z, AM Enrolled SB 174, introduced 05/19/2026: 16.20.810, 41.10.130, 16.20.850, 16.20.800