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Bill

HB 191

An Act establishing the Alaska Invasive Species Council in the Department of Fish and Game; relating to management of invasive species; and providing for an effective date.

34th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeremy Bynum and 3 co-sponsors

Alaska creates an Invasive Species Council under Fish and Game to coordinate statewide prevention and management of invasive species threatening ecosystems and economy.

(H) REFERRED TO FINANCE
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Bill Summary · HB 191

Legislative bill overview

HB 191 establishes a new Alaska Invasive Species Council within the Department of Fish and Game to coordinate statewide management and prevention of invasive species. The bill creates a formal governance structure and grants the council authority to develop and implement strategies for addressing invasive species threats to Alaska's ecosystems and economy.

Why is this important

Invasive species cause billions in damages nationally and threaten Alaska's unique ecosystems, fisheries, and agriculture. Creating a dedicated council with coordinated authority aims to address fragmentation in current response efforts and enable more effective prevention, early detection, and control of invasive species before they become entrenched.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and staffing: No appropriation is specified in recent actions; implementing a new council requires budget resources that may be contested or unavailable
  • Authority and jurisdiction: Questions about the council's enforcement powers versus advisory-only role, and how it coordinates with existing state and federal agencies already managing invasive species
  • Industry impacts: Agriculture, shipping, and other industries may face new regulations or restrictions based on council recommendations, raising compliance concerns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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