| SUMMARY OF: | Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Big Game Commercial Services Board |
Purpose of the Report
The audit was performed to determine if there is a continued need for the board and if its termination date should be extended. The board is set to sunset on June 30, 2024, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.
Report Conclusions
Overall, the audit concludes that the board operated in the public’s interest by conducting its meetings in an effective manner, supporting statutory changes when deemed necessary, and actively amending regulations. The audit also concludes that board licenses were not consistently supported by adequate documentation and two private landholder board seats were vacant or had absences for extended periods.
In accordance with AS 08.03.010(c)(9), the board is scheduled to terminate on June 30, 2024. We recommend that the legislature extend the board’s termination date six years to June 30, 2030, which is two years less than the eight-year statutory maximum. The reduced extension recommendation reflects the need for more timely oversight in recognition of the audit findings.
Findings and Recommendations
- The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing’s director should improve oversight procedures to ensure required licensure documentation is obtained and reviewed.
- The board should consider whether two private landholder board seats continue to be necessary for effective regulation.