(a) When the number of outstanding entry permits for a fishery is less than the optimum number established under AS 16.43.290, the commission shall issue new entry permits to applicants who are presently able to engage actively in the fishery until the optimum number is reached.
(b) The commission shall determine equitable methods of issuance, as appropriate, under (a) of this section that assure the receipt of fair market value for the permits issued.
(c) If a salmon fishery association qualified under AS 16.40.250 takes part in a fleet reduction program by expending money or incurring debt to contract with permit holders to relinquish the holders' entry permits under AS 16.43.150(i), and if this section requires additional permits to be issued for the same fishery in which the fleet reduction program was implemented, the legislature may appropriate any resulting revenue to the association for reimbursement of money expended or to retire any outstanding debt incurred for fleet reduction purposes. An appropriation under this subsection must be made within 30 years after the date the money was expended or debt incurred.