Yesterday (April 26, 2024), the House Fisheries Committee took up Senate Concurrent Resolution 10 (SCR 10). This resolution establishes the Joint Legislative Seafood Industry Task Force in Alaska to address economic challenges facing the state’s seafood industry. The task force is charged with developing a long-term vision for the industry, evaluating policy options to assist the seafood industry, improving coordination in harvesting, processing, and marketing seafood, incentivizing new product development, enhancing marketing efforts, improving product quality, and creating a strategic plan.
During the committee hearing, a series of amendments were proposed, including a pivotal addition introduced by Representative McCormick. This successful amendment mandates the inclusion of three members representing federally recognized tribes in Alaska. Representative McCormick underscored the importance of this measure, stating, “I offer this amendment to enrich the task force and respond to longstanding calls for greater tribal representation. These representatives will bring invaluable perspectives to the table, enriching our understanding of the industry’s challenges and opportunities.”
The impetus for this amendment traces back to a January presentation titled ‘Meaningful Alaska Native Representation on Boards and Commissions,’ where Alaska Native leaders advocated for increased inclusion across governance bodies. This amendment marks a concrete step towards honoring these calls, ensuring Alaska Natives have a dedicated voice in shaping policies affecting their ancestral lands and waters.
The House Fisheries Committee changed the make-up of the board to consist of 19 members, including legislators, representatives from the seafood industry, fishing communities, and tribal members. The task force must submit its findings and recommendations to the legislature by January 21, 2025, and is set to be terminated on February 1, 2025.
“By including Tribal Representation, the House Fisheries Committee has taken an important step towards equity and inclusivity. Indigenous voices are essential in shaping policies that impact our waters, our communities, and our future. Tanana Chiefs Conference appreciates the committee decision, which we hope will act as an example for conversations around other boards and committees across the State,” said Chief Chairman Brian Ridley, Tanana Chiefs Conference.
President Richard Peterson of Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska also commented “For thousands of years, Alaska Native people have stewarded these lands, waters, and resources. The very fact that there is a seafood industry to market is a testament to our responsible stewardship practices. Gunalchéesh to Rep. McCormick for continuing to tell our history and defend our traditional knowledge and our peoples rightful place at the table. By engaging with tribal leaders and community members, the State of Alaska can tap into a wealth of knowledge and expertise, leading to more informed decisions.”
SCR 10 now heads to the House Floor for a final vote by the full body.
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