The bill introduces a new chapter to Alaska's law concerning the sulfur content of marine fuel used in vessels operating in coastal waters. It establishes specific limits on sulfur content, prohibiting the use of marine fuel that exceeds 0.1 percent sulfur by weight within designated emission control areas and 0.5 percent sulfur by weight outside these areas. Additionally, the bill outlines various exemptions from these requirements, including provisions for vessels on continuous ocean-going voyages, those that experience force majeure or distress, and vessels owned or operated by the U.S. or foreign governments. The Department of Environmental Conservation is also granted the authority to exempt vessels that demonstrate lower total sulfur output than the specified limits.

Furthermore, the bill provides definitions for key terms such as "applicable waters," "emission control area," and "marine fuel," clarifying the scope and application of the new regulations. The definitions ensure that the legislation is precise in its intent and enforceability, thereby promoting environmental protection while accommodating necessary operational flexibility for vessel operators.

Statutes affected:
SB0253A, AM SB 253, introduced 02/19/2026: