AK HB199

Establishes a fisheries rehabilitation permit that allows qualified persons to collect fish, harvest gametes, fertilize and incubate eggs, and release fish back into state waters to restore fish populations.

Requires permit applicants to submit a $100 application fee and detailed proposal including project justification, management plan, communication strategy with stakeholders, and performance measures.

Permits may be issued only if the commissioner determines the project will restore fish populations where escapement goals are unmet or populations are limited, will not harm wild stocks, and will produce public benefits.

Limits permittees to collecting no more than 500,000 eggs per permit and requires implementation of pathogen controls; permits are valid for five years and may be extended.

Incorporates fisheries rehabilitation projects into regional salmon planning under AS 16.10.375 and requires consideration of such projects in fish protection findings under AS 16.05.871.