A bill that simplifies and speeds the lease renewal process for aquatic farmers has passed both houses of Legislature and is now expected to be signed into law by Gov. Mike Dunleavy.
Rep. Andi Story, D-Juneau, the primary sponsor of House Bill 115, said the legislation would give more certainty to businesses participating in Alaska’s emerging aquatic industry.
HB 115 expedites the lease renewal process by making it consistent with other Department of Natural Resources lease renewal processes, thus lowering the risk of investment for farmers and reducing the state agency’s workload. The process would be shortened from 200 days to about 90 days, without sacrificing appropriate regulatory oversight, public engagement and appeal procedures.
The bill previously passed the Senate 20-1 and this past weekend the House voted 37-3 to adopt the Senate version.
Rep. Dan Ortiz, I-Ketchikan, said it’s important that the state support small businesses, especially as Alaska recovers economically from the pandemic. Lowering the regulatory burden on aquatic farmers will encourage new businesses to open and support the good work many are already doing, Ortiz said.
