Trump Administration Moves to Restore Hunting Rights and State Authority in Alaska

Alaska is known for its hunting

Hunters, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the country may soon see expanded opportunities on federal lands in Alaska following a new proposal from the Department of the Interior aimed at rolling back federal restrictions imposed in recent years.

The proposal, announced by the U.S. Department of the Interior, would reverse regulatory changes from 2015, 2017, and 2024 and restore the framework originally established under the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA).

Supporters say the move will help restore the balance between federal oversight and Alaska’s authority to manage its wildlife and natural resources.

What the Proposed Rule Would Do

According to the Department of the Interior, the proposed rule would:

• Restore state-authorized hunting and trapping practices within national preserves, consistent with ANILCA

• Reinstate long-standing public notice and consultation procedures before closures or restrictions are implemented in national park areas

• Remove federal provisions that unnecessarily override Alaska’s wildlife management authority

• Eliminate duplicative or unnecessary regulatory language added during previous rulemakings

The proposal is designed to realign federal regulations with the original intent of ANILCA, which recognized Alaska’s primary role in managing wildlife populations within the state.

Reversing Previous Federal Policies

U.S. 55th Secretary of Interior Doug Burgum

Shortly after returning to office in 2025, Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14153, which directed federal agencies to roll back a series of policies implemented during the previous administration that limited resource development and outdoor activities on Alaska lands.

The executive order aimed to restore what the administration described as Alaska’s ability to responsibly manage and develop its resources while supporting local communities and outdoor traditions.

Since 2015, federal rule changes had introduced new restrictions on hunting and trapping practices in national preserves, creating regulatory uncertainty and prompting legal disputes between federal agencies and the state of Alaska.

Aligning Federal Rules with State Law

According to Doug Burgum, the proposed rule is intended to reduce federal overreach and return wildlife management authority to the state. Burgum stated that the proposal would:

“Reduce unnecessary overreach, align federal regulations with state law, and honor the commitment Congress made to ANILCA.”

Supporters argue that Alaska has long been recognized as having the expertise and local knowledge necessary to manage its wildlife populations responsibly.

Public Comment Period Ahead

Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register, it will enter a 60-day public comment period, allowing hunters, conservationists, and members of the public to weigh in. Those interested in submitting comments or learning more about the proposal will be able to do so through regulations.gov. Public input will play a role in determining whether the rule ultimately moves forward.

Part of a Broader Outdoor Access Agenda

This proposal is part of a broader effort by the administration to expand access to public lands for hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreation. Previous initiatives include the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act and the administration’s Make America Beautiful conservation initiative, both aimed at strengthening conservation programs while improving access to America’s public lands.

For hunters and trappers, the proposed Alaska rule represents another step toward restoring long-standing practices and reinforcing the role states play in managing wildlife resources.

Why It Matters

For generations, hunting and trapping have been central parts of Alaska’s culture, economy, and wildlife management system. This proposal is designed to return authority to the state and will improve conservation outcomes.  It should also help with preserving traditional outdoor activities that have helped fund wildlife management for decades.

At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we recognize that the right to hunt, fish, and responsibly manage wildlife is closely tied to America’s broader tradition of individual liberty and stewardship of the land. We’ll continue following this proposal and other developments affecting hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.

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