The bill amends AS 41.21.024 to establish clearer guidelines for granting public easements and rights-of-way within state parks for access to private property and for the installation and maintenance of public utility facilities. The department is now required to grant these easements if the commissioner determines that they will not unduly affect park resources, are in the public interest, and comply with applicable laws. Additionally, the bill introduces new subsections that outline the application process for utility providers or property owners seeking such easements, including requirements for describing the public benefits, need, proposed location, and potential environmental effects of the easement.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the commissioner must approve or disapprove applications within 90 days, with provisions for minor omissions to not hinder the application process. If the commissioner fails to act within 60 days, the application is automatically approved unless prohibited by other laws. The bill also requires the department to adopt regulations for existing easements that cross state park land, ensuring that public utilities and private property access are not unreasonably restricted, provided that such use does not adversely impact park resources or violate applicable laws.

Statutes affected:
HB0220A, AM HB 220, introduced 05/07/2025: 41.21.024