| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review on the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Board of Marine Pilots (BMP or board), November 5, 2012 |
Purpose of the Report
In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed BMP’s activities. The purpose of this audit was to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for the board’s continued existence and if the board has been operating in an effective manner. This audit also addresses the recommendations made in the prior sunset audit. As required by AS 44.66.050(a), this report shall be considered by the committee of reference during the legislative oversight process in determining whether the board should be reestablished. Currently, under AS 08.03.010(c)(10), BMP will terminate on June 30, 2013, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.
Report Conclusions
We conclude that BMP’s termination date should be extended. Regulating and licensing qualified marine pilots benefits the public’s safety and welfare, and protects the marine environment. The board provides reasonable assurance that individuals licensed to pilot passenger and cargo ships in Alaskan waters are qualified. We recommend that the board’s termination date be extended to June 30, 2019.
The board has successfully resolved many of the issues identified in the prior sunset audit. This report makes one new recommendation to improve BMP operational activities.
Findings and Recommendations
Recommendation No. 1
The marine pilot coordinator should improve administration of BMP operational activities.
While the board has successfully resolved many of the issues identified in the prior sunset audit, current analysis of BMP operational activities showed administrative deficiencies regarding public meeting notifications, licensing documentation, and oversight of the pilot associations’ drug and alcohol programs.