Alaska HB198 establishes an affirmative defense for disabling traps or snares on public land.

Alaska HB198 amends state law to allow individuals to defend against claims of damages for disabling traps or snares on public land if they were lawfully using a public trail, park, campsite, or other facility and disabled the trap or snare based on an objectively reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect the welfare of the public or private property. The bill also modifies the damages that aggrieved persons can recover from those who violate the law. The changes take effect immediately.

Alaska HB198 establishes an affirmative defense for disabling traps or snares on public land.

Alaska HB198 amends state law to allow individuals to defend against claims of damages for disabling traps or snares on public land if they were lawfully using a public trail, park, campsite, or other facility and disabled the trap or snare based on an objectively reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect the welfare of the public or private property. The bill also modifies the damages that aggrieved persons can recover from those who violate the law. The changes take effect immediately.