Juneau -- Representative John Coghill (R-Fairbanks) has introduced two measures designed to enhance the abundance of the state's fish and game resources and to affirm the rule of law over the management of those resources.

House Concurrent Resolution 1 asks the Governor to use all methods and means available to restore the abundance of wildlife and fish in the state and to manage those resources on a biological basis for abundance.

"Our constitution mandates that our fish and game resources be managed intensively on the sustained yield principle," Coghill said. "The Knowles Administration has failed to implement an intensive management program that will ensure that there is an abundance of wildlife. Attempting to manage complex wildlife populations by only addressing human uses won't work."

House Concurrent Resolution 2 restates the historical events that gave the State of Alaska the responsibility for the management of Alaska's fish and wildlife resources. It also challenges the Department of Interior to agree to allow the United States Supreme Court to decide who will manage Alaska's resources.

"The Clinton Administration continues to try to divide Alaskans on equality and wildlife consumption issues, but the real issue before us is one of sovereignty and the federal government's continued denial of that sovereignty," Coghill said. "The debate over subsistence has become one fueled by emotion. I believe the debate must focus on the doctrines of law."

Coghill's measures are intended as companion legislation to Senate Concurrent Resolutions sponsored by Senator Robin Taylor (R-Wrangell).