AK HB412

Establishes the Alaska Marine Highway System Corporation as an independent public corporation within the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, transferring operational control from the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.

Creates a seven-member board of directors consisting of the commissioners of commerce and transportation, plus five governor-appointed members with business/transportation experience, including representatives from Southeast, Southcentral, and Southwest Alaska.

Grants the corporation broad powers to operate the Alaska marine highway system as a commercial entity, set rates, determine routes and schedules, issue bonds, manage employees, and conduct procurement based on competitive principles rather than state procurement code.

Transfers all Alaska marine highway system assets, vessels, ferry terminals, and property to the corporation on June 1, 2019, with the corporation assuming all associated rights, liabilities, and obligations.

Includes transition provisions for collective bargaining agreement negotiations, asset transfer reporting, initial board appointments by January 1, 2019, and corporation operational start date of July 1, 2019.