UFA Alert: June 24, 2019

Derelict Vessel Law Update

United Fishermen of Alaska received a response from the Department of Administration’s Commissioner Kelley Tshibaka.  They will not be delaying implementation on the Derelict Vessel law, but recognize there has not been sufficient time for vessel owners to comply with the new law.  The commissioner stated “we will exercise discretion in the near-term in enforcement while we work together to get all Alaskans compliant with the law”  and that “law enforcement officers generally will issue warnings to vessels out of compliance; however, I still encourage all Alaskans to whom SB 92 applies to register their vessels with the DMV as soon as possible.”
 
If you have questions about requirements and the process, the Commercial Fisheries Entry Division and Department of Motor Vehicles created a document that clearly outlines the new Derelict Vessel Law requirements.  The PDF is available on our website and explains what the requirements are and how to comply.  The document also explains what to do if you do not have a DMV office in your location.  To download, click here.
 
UFA will continue to help fishermen and encourage you to let us know if you have any issues or questions.  You may read Commissioner Tshibaka’s response below.

Frances
Executive Director
United Fishermen of Alaska
 
E-mail response from Commissioner Tshibaka, Department of Administration:
Thank you for your email. I understand your concern and your experience with the DMV, which is faced with implementing the federal requirements for REAL ID for all Alaskans as well as the requirements for SB 92.
 
The intent of this Administration is to help Alaskans, not penalize them. We are implementing SB 92 as passed by the legislature, Alaskans’ elected representatives. But I also recognize your concerns—there has not been sufficient time for law-abiding Alaskans to become compliant with this law yet.
 
I appreciate your efforts to get the word out about the new requirements. Please continue to partner with us in ensuring compliance with the law passed by the Legislature, and we will exercise discretion in the near-term in enforcement while we work together to get all Alaskans compliant with the law. This season, law enforcement officers generally will issue warnings to vessels out of compliance; however, I still encourage all Alaskans to whom SB 92 applies to register their vessels with the DMV as soon as possible.
 
Thanks,
 
Kelly Tshibaka
Commissioner
Department of Administration