This puts the emphasis where it should be, on the subsistence resource, not on the dollar value of that resource set by a nonsubsistence economy. If a limit were set based on dollar value, that value would tend to erode due to inflation. Setting a limit based on quantity preserves the customary value of the trade. The definition has not been changed in any way. Alaska courts have recognized and permitted taking game for religious purposes since 1979, and this has not been changed.
State management provides for such uses currently.
The management structure is created by federal regulation. The federal subsistence board, which is the dominant and controlling body, is appointed by the Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture, is composed of career federal employees, and has an appointed chairman who is also a federal employee while serving as chairman. The regional subsistence councils are appointed by the federal board, and there is no requirement that any member be a subsistence user. Membership on the regional councils will change as the federal government responds to changing national priorities. This system has not been changed for federal management, but has been improved dramatically for state management.