SB 89 Summary

• Creates new Chapter 12 authorizing nonprofit corporations to obtain permits for shellfish enhancement projects with $1,000 application fee and subject to public hearings and department approval based on substantial public benefits and no jeopardy to natural stocks.

• Establishes permit conditions including sourcing shellfish from department-approved sources, prohibition on genetically modified shellfish, mandatory 15-day notice before release, and requirement to offer surplus shellfish for sale first to department then other permit holders.

• Increases salmon hatchery permit application fee from $100 to $1,000 under AS 16.10.400(b).

• Authorizes special harvest area entry permits for nonprofit shellfish enhancement project permit holders and allows cost recovery through common property fisheries with assessments not exceeding 50 percent of shellfish value.

• Exempts nonprofit corporations holding shellfish enhancement permits from corporate income tax on proceeds from shellfish sales and cost recovery fisheries under AS 43.20.012.