AK HB365

Changes the requirement that the Alaska Fish and Game Commission "shall" establish an optimum number of commercial fishing entry permits to "may" establish such numbers, making it discretionary rather than mandatory.

Removes the commission's direct authority to establish optimum permit numbers from AS 16.43.100(a)(9) and requires that any optimum number be established separately under AS 16.43.290 before other provisions apply.

Modifies AS 16.43.290 to change "shall" to "may" when establishing optimum permit numbers following initial permit issuance, giving the commission discretion in determining optimal fishery entry levels.

Clarifies that buy-back programs, permit reductions, and new permit issuances are only triggered when the commission has affirmatively established an optimum number under AS 16.43.290.

Adds a new subsection to AS 16.43.320 specifying that unexpended buy-back fund balances lapse back to their original funding source at the end of the fiscal year when a buy-back program terminates.