Alaska Legislature

Re: Senate Bill 101, An Act extending the termination date of the Citizens’ Advisory Commission on Federal Management Areas in Alaska

Dear Co-Chairs Bishop and Stedman, and members of Senate Finance:
 
The Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc. (RDC) is writing to support Senate Bill 101, an Act extending the termination date of the Citizens’ Advisory Commission on Federal Management Areas (CACFA) in Alaska.

RDC is a statewide trade association comprised of individuals and companies from Alaska’s fishing, forestry, mining, oil and gas, and tourism industries. RDC’s membership includes Alaska Native corporations, local communities, organized labor, and industry support firms. RDC’s purpose is to encourage a strong, diversified private sector in Alaska and expand the state’s economic base through the responsible development of our natural resources.

RDC has been supportive of CACFA since its inception shortly after the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980. CACFA’s purpose is to determine if federal land management decisions are consistent with federal law and Congressional intent; to make recommendations on matters relating to those determinations; and to prevent loss or erosion of property, access or other valid rights of Alaskans.

RDC agrees with the conclusion of the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee’s May 2020 Audit that there is a continuing public need for CACFA. We also concur with the recommendation that the Commission’s termination date be extended to 2029. Lastly, we support providing for appropriate funding for the program to maximize CACFA’s effectiveness.

RDC urges members of this committee to swiftly support passage of SB 101. Thank you for your consideration of our comments.

Sincerely,