AK SB22

Creates a new Chapter 12 of AS 16 establishing a permit system for nonprofit organizations to conduct shellfish enhancement projects, with applications requiring a $1,000 fee and department approval based on substantial public benefits and no jeopardy to natural stocks.

Requires the Department of Fish and Game to hold public hearings at least 30 days before permit issuance in the vicinity of proposed shellfish releases, with notice published weekly for three consecutive weeks and opportunity for public comment.

Authorizes permit holders to harvest and sell surplus shellfish to fund reasonable operating costs, facility expansion, and shellfish research, with sales first offered to the department and other permit holders.

Allows permit holders to conduct cost recovery fisheries through either special agents or common property fisheries, with assessments on harvested shellfish not exceeding 50 percent of value to fund enhancement project operations.

Exempts nonprofit corporations holding shellfish enhancement permits from Alaska corporate income tax on proceeds from shellfish sales and cost recovery fisheries, and increases salmon hatchery permit application fees from $100 to $1,000.