Juneau -- The Committee Substitute for House Joint Resolution 25, sponsored by Representative Scott Ogan (R-Palmer), moved out of the House Finance Committee Monday.

HJR 25 adds a phrase to Article XI Section 7 of the State Constitution restricting fish or wildlife initiatives. "The Constitution of the State of Alaska designates the Legislature to be the authoritative body to manage the State's resources. This resolution reaffirms the Legislature's authority to manage fish and wildlife," Ogan explained.

The committee heard testimony denouncing what is called ballot box biology. Ogan is concerned that initiatives based on emotion and misinformation are used as management tools for the State's fish and wildlife. "I want to give Alaskans a chance to vote on what type of fish and wildlife management they want implemented in Alaska. They will be able to choose between sound, professional management based on scientific fact, or the emotion of the minute based on large outside interest groups who have never been supportive of the Alaskan way of life" Ogan said.

"It is important to me that Alaskans understand that the approach in HJR 25 will not take away their ability to participate. Alaska has a wonderful public process already in place to manage fish and wildlife. The local advisory committees, the Boards of Fisheries and Game, and the Legislature are constitutionally mandated to manage these resources. Barring fish and wildlife issues from the initiative process will not prevent citizens from participating in their management" Ogan declared.

HJR 25 now moves to the House Rules Committee.