SB 29 Summary

• Establishes the "East Side of Cook Inlet Set Net Fleet Reduction Act" to reduce the number of commercial set net fishers and decrease fishing pressure on the east side of Cook Inlet.

• Creates a distinct administrative area for set net fishing in Cook Inlet statistical areas 244-21, 244-22, 244-31, 244-32, 244-41, and 244-42, effective January 1, 2022, separate from the Cook Inlet administrative area.

• Permits individuals to appeal commission decisions not to reassign their entry permit to the new administrative area through superior court by March 1, 2022.

• Establishes a voluntary entry permit buy-back program allowing up to 200 permits to be purchased at $260,000 each (less administrative costs), with payment options available in three annual installments, subject to voter approval in an April 1, 2022 election.

• Requires the Department of Natural Resources to terminate state set net tract leases without penalty when permits are purchased, and directs the Department of Fish and Game to close the associated waters to commercial fishing using regulations in effect at the time of purchase.