A resolution, recently passed by the group, doesn't refer to the current effort aimed at putting the issue to voters. UFA President Arni Thomson noted that initiative backers will have a narrow window in which to gather signatures if their ballot application is approved. Thomson says the upcoming legislative session will provide an opportunity to get the program re-established earlier.
The program allows states to put conditions on certain activities on federal lands and waters. It ended June 30. The Legislature and governor couldn't come to terms on a revamped program, and lawmakers, during a special session devoted solely to the program, failed to save it.
UFA represents 37 Alaska commercial fishing associations.
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