Why It Matters: Comprised of nine Governor-appointed volunteer members, the Alaska Big Game Commercial Services Board is responsible for regulating and overseeing commercial big game hunting and transportation services ensuring public safety, wildlife management, and professional standards. A bill proposal working its way through the Alaska State Legislature aims to enhance that current structure by creating a permanent, paid, Executive Administrator Position.
Highlights:
- Alaska Senate Bill 29, proposed by Alaska Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus Co-chair Senator Jesse Bjorkman, aims to bring continuity to the Alaska Big Game Commercial Services Board by creating the permanent position of Executive Administrator.
- Additional updates in the bill would give the Governor-appointed Board Members oversight over the Administrator.
- The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) is closely monitoring the bill’s progress and is working with our partners to ensure the sporting-conservation voice is maintained in this legislation.
Alaska’s rugged wilderness draws hunters worldwide, many of whom rely on professional guides and outfitters to navigate its challenging terrain in the pursuit of iconic big game species like brown bear, moose, and Dall sheep. These guided hunts, often the culmination of years of preparation, are a cornerstone of Alaska’s outdoor economy and cultural heritage. Ensuring these services operate ethically and sustainably while protecting existing businesses has been an ongoing conversation among the Alaska Outdoor Community, including during events like the annual Sportsmen’s Rendezvous and among members of the Alaska Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus.
Senate Bill 29, introduced by Caucus Co-Chair Senator Jesse Bjorkman during the 34th Legislature, aims to strengthen the Big Game Commercial Services Board by permanently establishing an Executive Administrator position to serve as the volunteer Board’s principal executive officer. SB 29 also guides the Board to establish qualifications and duties for the Executive Administrator. Currently the Alaska Big Game Commercial Services Board is responsible for regulating and overseeing all commercial big game hunting and transportation services in Alaska. Their oversight includes licensing, guide/outfitter examinations, regulations and standards, disciplinary actions, policy development, and conservation coordination with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Proponents of Senate Bill 29 hope that creating a permanent ongoing administrator will ensure continuity, stability and industry confidence.
Supported by coalition partners like Safari Club International and the Alaska Professional Hunters Association, Senate Bill 29 has passed out of the Alaska State Senate and has moved to the House Resources Committee. The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation has been following the bill closely as it progresses through the state legislature and is working with our Caucus members and coalition partners to ensure that the policies enhance wildlife conservation and support sustainable access to Alaska’s big game hunting opportunities for sportsmen and women.
