"An Act relating to the disposal of state land by lottery; and relating to the disposal, including sale or lease, of remote recreational cabin sites."

HB 319 is legislation to help move Alaska State land into the hands of private individuals. Presently, Alaska holds millions of acres of remote area land that is generating no revenue for the state, or local nearby governments.

By leasing or selling remote cabin sites, individuals will hold the surface rights to those lands. The initial cost will be minimal to residents through public or special private sales. They will incur the costs of a survey and appraisal, and must meet the requirements of statute regarding improvements.

Since the majority of the sites are remote, the means of access could result in the purchase of off road vehicles, and in some cases boats and motors. Once improvements begin, the new landowner will be purchasing building materials, fuel, and other necessities to make the cabin as comfortable as possible. The economic trickle down effect could be huge, as it will also be felt in the real estate market.

HB 319 makes good economic sense for state government, local government, Alaska businesses and Alaskans. It will generate a source of revenue, and fulfill a promise to those Alaskans who wants that remote cabin, a place to escape, to hunt and fish, or simply enjoy a mini-vacation. Passage will expand the opportunity to satisfy the dream of Alaskans by allowing them to secure in fee simple, a favored piece of property in a setting that epitomizes the reason we live in Alaska; to enjoy its wildlife, its beauty and its solitude.

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