Opinion ID: 1405962
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Did the CFEC have authority to adopt regulations establishing the maximum number of permits for the fishery?

Text: Initially, we must determine if the CFEC was required by the Limited Entry Act to make a formal finding in establishing the maximum number of permits for the fishery, rather than promulgate a regulation, the procedure the commission adopted. While the CFEC admits that a finding is required on the need to limit a fishery, it argues that the statute is unclear as to the procedure to be followed in establishing the maximum number of permits. Johns, on the other hand, argues that the legislature intended the CFEC to reach a finding as to the maximum number simultaneously with its decision to limit the fishery and that therefore a decisional document as to the maximum number was required. Our review of the legislative history cited by Johns and the statute itself does not make clear what procedure the legislature had in mind for establishing the maximum number of permits. Alaska Statute 16.43.110 provides, however, that the commission may adopt regulations, consistent with law, necessary or proper in the exercise of its powers or for the performance of its duties under this chapter. It was, therefore, proper for the CFEC to have used its power to adopt regulations to establish the maximum number of permits for the fishery.