AK HB18

Establishes regional fishery development associations as nonprofit corporations that must represent commercial fishermen, fish processors, and municipalities to develop new fisheries in Alaska.

Creates a developing fishery management assessment on commercial fishery resources with rates ranging from 2.5% to 30% of value, determined by election among permit holders in designated developing fishery areas.

Requires the Fish and Game Commissioner to approve notice, ballot procedures, and registration processes before associations can conduct elections on assessment rates, amendments, or termination.

Assessment revenue collected by buyers must be remitted quarterly to the Department of Revenue and deposited in the state treasury for appropriation to fund qualified regional fishery development associations' activities.

Funds received by associations must be used according to an annual operating plan developed cooperatively with the Department of Fish and Game, covering bioassessment surveys, management, research, and administrative activities.