"An Act relating to unlawful obstruction or hindrance of hunting, fishing, trapping, or viewing of fish or game; and amending Rule 82, Alaska Rules of Civil Procedure, and Rule 508, Alaska Rules of Appellate Procedure. "

Committee Substitute for House Bill 107 (FIN) is a change to existing statute regarding persons who hunt, fish, trap, or view wildlife in Alaska. Presently, if any of these people are obstructed from participating in this most basic of Alaskan experiences, they can seek relief in our courts. The courts are permitted to grant damages for most of the expenses except reasonable actual attorney's fees and costs. HB 107 will allow the judge to grant these expenses as well.

There is a growing sentiment across the country that disturbing wildlife in any manner is unacceptable. Hunting, fishing, trapping, and viewing wildlife are considered an important part of why we live in Alaska and why thousands of tourists visit our state each year. Those individuals or groups who would hinder a wildlife experience know that most people will not take them to court because of the attorney fees and costs involved with litigation.

Alaskans and visitors should not be subjected to any costs associated with interference, obstruction, or hindrance of their most basic rights. HB 107 will allow an opportunity for the prevailing party to recoup all of the costs associated with hindering an Alaskan Wildlife Experience.

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