AK HB198

Creates a new affirmative defense for disabling traps or snares on public land when a person was lawfully using a public trail, park, campsite, or other facility and had an objectively reasonable belief that disabling the trap was necessary to protect public welfare or private property

Amends AS 16.05.790(c) to add this defense to Alaska's existing law prohibiting obstruction or hindrance of lawful hunting, fishing, and trapping

Shields individuals who successfully raise this affirmative defense from civil liability, preventing trappers from recovering general damages, special damages, or punitive damages against them

Takes effect immediately upon passage