Sponsor Statement for HB 4

Permit Streamlining

This bill eliminates some of the redundant permit processes required for resource development in Alaska. The bill exempts applicants from the ADF&G permit process when the Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) reviews the permit as a part of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land use permit process. The bill clarifies the existing comment role ADF&G provides to DNR on activities that might impact anadromous streams.

The bill also reduces redundant internal review processes within DNR. A project covered by a forest land use plan (FLUP), a miscellaneous land use permit (11 AAC 96.010 and AS 38.05.850(c)), or a right of way easement is exempted form the best interest findings requirement of AS 38.05.035(e). A site specific forest land use plan is no longer needed for some sales on land covered by a regional or area land use plan or a forest management plan.

The bill does not remove environmental protections, rather it frees up staff who must complete permit paper work for more important field work that will better allow Alaska to lead the nation into the 21st century with environmentally sound resource development.