Juneau -- The Alaska Senate Monday passed House Bill 204, sponsored by Representative John Harris.

HB 204 removes some of the obstacles to elk farming in Alaska by transferring the oversight responsibilities for domestic elk breeding and farming from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) to the Division of Agriculture.

"ADF&G regulates domesticated, privately owned elk as a game animal, creating unnecessary burdens and roadblocks for elk farmers and would-be elk farmers," Harris said. "By transferring oversight responsibilities for domestic elk breeding and farming to the Division of Agriculture we will lower the risk of health problems and animal escape concerns, as well as enhance the opportunities for commercial success."

HB 204 passed the Senate unanimously. Notice of reconsideration was filed.