Session: State Capitol, Room 13 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-2689 Fax: (907) 465-3472 Interim: 345 W. Sterling Hwy. Suite 102B Homer, AK 99603 Phone: (907) 235-2921 Fax: (907) 235-4008

Sponsor Statements for HB 284
Board of Fisheries Conflict of Interest

An Act relating to participation in matters before the Board of Fisheries by members of the board; and providing for an effective date.

Alaska is unique in its vastness and abundant resources, yet its number of inhabitants is few. To effectively assure that our lay boards and commissions are composed of qualified individuals, appointments are made through the governor and confirmed by the legislature. Because of the small number of inhabitants in our state, it often becomes difficult for a board to operate in a manner that utilizes the full extent of its make-up.

The current conflict of interest measure, as applied to the Alaska Board of Fisheries, works against its productivity. It is not in the best interest of the state to have board members disqualify themselves from participation in matters in which they may have a direct interest, because it follows that these areas would be the ones in which members have the most expertise.

If the same measure were applied to state legislators, seldom would there be a piece of legislation that would not find some members disqualified from participation. This bill mandates full personal disclosure on matters related to the subject for eligible participation, but requires a board member to actively participate or vote.

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