RFI #2025-DOTPF-AlaskaMarineHighwaySystem(AMHS)-RegReform

Regulations Reform Recommendations – Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) (17 AAC 70)

Introduction

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is requesting information from stakeholders, industry representatives, and interested parties on potential reforms to State regulations contained in 17 AAC 70. The purpose of this RFI is to gather constructive input to inform potential amendments or repeals that improve efficiency, clarity, and public benefit.

Background Information

On August 4, 2025, Governor Mike Dunleavy issued Administrative Order 360, directing State agencies to identify outdated, unnecessarily burdensome, or unclear regulations and propose reforms to improve government efficiency and public service.

DOT&PF operates the Alaska Marine Highway System, a vital transportation link for coastal communities. Regulations address vessel operations, tariffs, reservations, and passenger/vehicle transport policies. DOT&PF seeks recommendations that:

• Modernize regulatory requirements in line with current industry practices.

• Reduce unnecessary administrative burdens while maintaining safety and compliance with federal requirements.

• Improve clarity and usability of regulations for the public, regulated entities, and DOT&PF staff.

• Support economic development and long-term sustainability.

Response Information

Interested parties are invited to submit written recommendations addressing one or more of the following:

1. Specific regulation citations you recommend be amended or repealed, with explanation of the issue and suggested solution.

2. Opportunities for modernization to align with federal standards, technological advancements, or industry best practices.

3. Process improvements or administrative changes to improve regulatory outcomes.

4. Any other ideas to streamline compliance while supporting safety, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality.

Responses to this RFI are for informational purposes only. DOT&PF will not award a contract from this RFI, nor will it be financially responsible for any preparation costs incurred. Non-response does not preclude participation in future rulemaking or solicitations.

Submission Requirements

• Responses can be submitted via dot.regs@alaska.gov , ideally clear and concise to be actionable. Alternatively, mailing recommendations is also available at the address indicated.

• Include your name, organization (if applicable), contact information (optional), and any supporting documentation.

• Reference “AMHS Reg Reform RFI” in the subject and/or body of the material provided.

• Comments provided should relate to, and specifically cite, the portion of regulation under 17 AAC 70.

Deadline for Responses: UPDATED: October 17, 2025, 4:00 p.m. Alaska Time. Alaska DOT&PF will consider comments filed after this date to the extent practicable.

Coordination Contact:

Andy Mills, Special Assistant to the Commissioner
Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities

Emailed or hard copy responses are acceptable. If sending hard copy:

U.S. Mail:
P.O. Box 112500
Juneau, AK 99811-2500

Delivery Service (FedEx, UPS):
3132 Channel Drive
Juneau, AK 99801

17 AAC 70 (article and section reference links)

Article 1. State Ferries (Alaska Marine Highway) (17 AAC 70.010 — 17 AAC 70.230)

• Sec. 17 AAC 70.010. Purpose of ferry system.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.020. Classification of traffic.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.030. Scheduling.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.040. Rates, fares and charges.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.050. Winter rates.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.060. Group rates.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.070. Regulatory agencies — federal.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.080. Operation of vessels.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.090. Liability of carrier.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.100. Claim for loss, damage, injury, or death.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.110. Refusal to transport.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.120. Animals.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.130. Unaccompanied vehicles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.140. Refrigerated vehicles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.150. Oversize vehicles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.160. Cleated or tracked vehicles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.170. Disabled persons or vehicles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.180. Corpses, patients, hearses and ambulances.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.190. Dangerous or objectionable articles.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.200. Baggage.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.210. Reservations.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.220. Refunds and cancellation penalties.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.221. Ticket refunds for specific routes.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.230. Regulations as terms of contract for passage.

Article 2. Private Sector Use of Marine Highway System Terminal Facilities (17 AAC 70.250 — 17 AAC 70.390)

• Sec. 17 AAC 70.250. General prerequisites for private use.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.260. Terminal use.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.265. Denial and revocation of terminal use.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.270. Facilities and services provided.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.280. Liquidated damages for delays to marine highway system schedules.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.290. Liability for damage to facilities.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.295. Pass-through of direct costs.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.300. Billing for use.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.310. Priority of use among private sector vessels.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.320. Special conditions.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.330. Right to refuse dockage.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.390. Definitions.
  
  

Article 3. Marine Highway System Procurement Procedures (17 AAC 70.400 — 17 AAC 70.430)

• Sec. 17 AAC 70.400. Marine highway system procurement activities.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.410. Application of interport differential to bids.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.420. Interport differential criteria.
• Sec. 17 AAC 70.430. Designated base port.

Article 4. General Provisions (17 AAC 70.995)

• Sec. 17 AAC 70.995. Definitions.