7 M.R.S. § 1806 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1806
7 §1806. Disease control notifications
Status: in_force

It is a violation of this chapter to tamper with, remove or alter eartags, labels, placards or notices affixed or posted by the commissioner to notify of and assist in the control of disease. [PL 2001, c. 572, §34 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 31 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2 / Section 31
7 §31. Title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Agricultural Land Interest Act." [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 976 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 976
7 §976. Aroostook County office
Status: in_force

The board shall maintain or arrange for the maintenance of an office in Aroostook County located in a town most convenient to the largest number of potential users of the fund. This office must be staffed by one or more business development specialists primarily responsible for work associated with the fund as well as other activities as defined by the board. The business development specialists must be available in the Aroostook County office on a regular basis. [PL 2013, c. 403, §9 (AMD).]

Should the performance of the functions of the business development specialists be contracted for, this contract must be made by the board and must be awarded through competitive bidding. [PL 2013, c. 403, §9 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2323 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 410 / Section 2323
7 §2323. Cooperation
Status: in_force

Consistent with law and within available appropriations, the departments, agencies and officers of this State shall cooperate with the governing board of the Pest Control Insurance Fund established by the Pest Control Compact. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 602 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 602
7 §602. Enforcing official
Status: in_force

This subchapter is administered by the Board of Pesticides Control, referred to in this subchapter as the "board," established in Title 5, section 12004‑D, subsection 3 and further described in Title 22, chapter 258‑A . [PL 2005, c. 620, §2 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 219-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 219-B
7 §219-B. Fund To Address Food Insecurity and Provide Nutrition Incentives
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. The Fund To Address Food Insecurity and Provide Nutrition Incentives, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established in the department to provide incentives to federal food and nutrition assistance program participants for the purchase of locally grown fruits and vegetables and to support outreach for and administration of programs that offer nutrition incentives to participants of federal food and nutrition assistance programs. The fund is established to match contributions from private and public sources of up to $50,000 annually to further the purposes of this section. The fund, to be accounted within the department, must be held separate and apart from all other money, funds and accounts. Eligible investment earnings credited to the assets of the fund become part of the assets of the fund. Any unexpended balances remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year do not lapse and must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. For purposes of this section, "local" means within the State. [PL 2021, c. 468, §1 (NEW).]

2. Fund recipients. An organization based in the State that supports local food producers, local food production or low-income individuals in receiving food and nutrition assistance may receive proceeds from the fund upon application with the department. The department shall prioritize an applicant that has a demonstrated history of incentivizing the use of federal food and nutrition assistance programs to purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables or that demonstrates the ability to leverage the proceeds to match or receive additional funds from local, state, federal or private sources. The department shall periodically post a request for applications for eligible organizations to apply for fund proceeds. [PL 2021, c. 468, §1 (NEW).]

3. Report; audit. The department shall require a periodic report from a recipient under subsection 2 detailing the use of fund proceeds and the federal food and nutrition assistance programs involved and to ensure that the funds are expended appropriately pursuant to this section. The department may audit a recipient to carry out the purposes of this subsection. [PL 2021, c. 468, §1 (NEW).]

4. Rules. The department may adopt routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A to carry out the purposes of the fund, including application criteria and procedures for recipients, disbursement of funds to recipients and for outreach and administration purposes and reporting and audit procedures for recipients. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. A, §7 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 4011 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4011
7 §4011. Cruelty to animals
Status: in_force

1. Cruelty to animals. Except as provided in subsection 1‑A , a person, including an owner or the owner's agent, is guilty of cruelty to animals if that person: A. Kills or attempts to kill any animal belonging to another person without the consent of the owner or without legal privilege; [PL 1995, c. 490, §20 (RPR).] B. Except for a licensed veterinarian or a person certified under Title 17, section 1042 , kills or attempts to kill an animal by a method that does not cause instantaneous death; [PL 1995, c. 490, §20 (RPR).] C. Is a licensed veterinarian or a person certified under Title 17, section 1042 and that person kills or attempts to kill an animal by a method that does not conform to standards adopted by a national association of licensed veterinarians; [RR 1997, c. 2, §33 (COR).] D. Injures, overworks, tortures, torments, abandons or cruelly beats or intentionally mutilates an animal; gives drugs, including but not limited to, a scheduled drug as defined in Title 17‑A, section 1101, subsection 11 , to an animal with an intent to harm or intoxicate the animal; gives poison or alcohol to an animal; or exposes a poison with intent that it be taken by an animal. The owner or occupant of property is privileged to use reasonable force to eject a trespassing animal; [PL 2019, c. 437, §4 (AMD).] E. Deprives an animal that the person owns or possesses of necessary sustenance, necessary medical attention, proper shelter, protection from the weather or humanely clean conditions; [PL 1997, c. 456, §5 (AMD).] F. Keeps or leaves a domestic animal on an uninhabited or barren island lying off the coast of the State during the month of December, January, February or March without providing necessary sustenance and proper shelter; [PL 1999, c. 254, §11 (AMD).] G. Hunts, traps or sells for the purpose of hunting any animal, except as permitted pursuant to chapter 202‑A and Title 12, Part 13, and excluding humane trapping of animals for population control efforts or animal control pursuant to this Part; [PL 2013, c. 115, §15 (AMD).] H. Injects, inserts or causes ingestion of any substance used solely to enhance the performance of an animal by altering the animal's metabolism to that animal's detriment, including but not limited to excessive levels of sodium bicarbonate in equines used for competition; [PL 2007, c. 702, §10 (AMD).] I. Kills or tortures an animal to frighten or intimidate a person or forces a person to injure or kill an animal; or [PL 2007, c. 702, §11 (AMD).] J. Confines an animal in a building, enclosure, car, boat, vehicle or vessel of any kind when extreme heat or extreme cold will be harmful to its health. [PL 2007, c. 702, §12 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 437, §4 (AMD).]

1-A. Animal cruelty. Except as provided in paragraphs A and B , a person is guilty of cruelty to animals if that person kills or attempts to kill a cat or dog. A. A licensed veterinarian or a person certified under Title 17, section 1042 may kill a cat or dog according to the methods of euthanasia under Title 17, chapter 42, subchapter IV . [PL 1995, c. 490, §21 (NEW).] B. A person who owns a cat or dog, or the owner's agent, may kill that owner's cat or dog by shooting with a firearm provided the following conditions are met. (1) The shooting is performed by a person 18 years of age or older using a weapon and ammunition of suitable caliber and other characteristics to produce instantaneous death by a single shot. (2) Death is instantaneous. (3) Maximum precaution is taken to protect the general public, employees and other animals. (4) Any restraint of the cat or dog during the shooting does not cause undue suffering to the cat or dog. [PL 1995, c. 490, §21 (NEW).] [PL 1995, c. 490, §21 (NEW).]

2. Affirmative defenses. It is an affirmative defense to this section that: A. The conduct was performed by a licensed veterinarian or was a part of scientific research governed by accepted standards; [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] B. The conduct was designed to control or eliminate rodents, ants or other common pests on the defendant's own property; [PL 2007, c. 702, §13 (AMD).] C. The conduct involved the use of live animals as bait or in the training of other animals in accordance with the laws of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Title 12, Part 13 ; or [PL 2007, c. 702, §14 (AMD).] D. The animal is kept as part of an agricultural operation and in compliance with best management practices for animal husbandry as determined by the department. [PL 2007, c. 702, §15 (NEW).] Evidence of proper care of any animal shall not be admissible in the defense of alleged cruelty to other animals. [PL 2007, c. 702, §§13-15 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 222 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-B / Section 222
7 §222. Responsibilities of the commissioner
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall: [PL 1987, c. 520 (NEW).]

1. Information. Conduct studies and otherwise gather, maintain and disseminate information concerning farmland transfers, availability of farm labor, existence of farm internship and training programs, persons desiring to participate in that training, farmers retiring or otherwise ceasing farming operations, persons desiring to enter farming or associated employment and all other information deemed necessary to carry out this chapter; [PL 1987, c. 520 (NEW).]

2. Training. Provide and supervise opportunities for on-farm and off-farm training, through state-sponsored programs or in cooperation with other appropriate agencies and organizations. Training may include on-site experience under the guidance of approved farmer-supervisors or classroom instruction in farm management, finance, equipment use and maintenance, production and marketing principles and techniques and other relevant subjects; [PL 1987, c. 520 (NEW).]

3. Assistance. Provide assistance in matching retiring farmers with persons desiring to enter farming and recruit and place interns with farmer-supervisors; [PL 2001, c. 168, §1 (AMD).]

4. Cooperation. Cooperate with appropriate local, state and federal agencies and institutions and with farm organizations and interested individuals, including the Department of Education, the Department of Labor, the University of Maine and the Cooperative Extension Service, in carrying out this chapter; and [PL 2013, c. 29, §1 (AMD).]

5. Staff support. Designate an employee of the department to oversee the Maine Agricultural and Internship Training Program. [PL 2013, c. 29, §2 (AMD).]

6. Report. [PL 2013, c. 29, §3 (RP).]
7 M.R.S. § 88 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 4 / Section 88
7 §88. Filing and certification; investigation of complaints
Status: in_force

1. Filing requirement. A licensee may not receive payment of a stipend or state aid by special appropriation until: A. The licensee files a sworn certificate with the commissioner stating the amount of money raised by the licensee in connection with the fair and the amount actually awarded and paid in premiums; and [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).] B. The commissioner submits a certificate to the executive director of the State Harness Racing Commission stating that the commissioner has examined the claim of the licensee and determined that the licensee has complied with sections 86 and 87 and has awarded and paid as premiums a sum equal to or greater than the stipend received by the licensee. [PL 2025, c. 161, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 161, §5 (AMD).]

2. Investigation of complaints. Upon receiving a written and signed complaint alleging a violation of this chapter relating to the payment of state aid in any form to a licensee, the commissioner may investigate the alleged violation and employ such agents as necessary to aid in the investigation. Expenses incurred for an investigation under this subsection are paid out of the general appropriation for state aid to licensees. When an investigation determines that a licensee has violated this chapter, the expense of the investigation is paid from the amount that would otherwise have been paid to that licensee. If a licensee against which the complaint is made receives its aid by special enactment, then the expense of the investigation is paid from the appropriation for that licensee. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 993 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 993
7 §993. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in sections 991 to 994 , unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [RR 1999, c. 2, §9 (COR).]

1. Committee. [PL 1999, c. 668, §69 (RP).]

2. Consumer pack. "Consumer pack" means a unit of less than 50 pounds new weight of potatoes contained in a bag, crate or any other type of container.

3. District. "District" means each one of the geographical divisions of the production area established as follows: A. District No. 1. Township 11, Range 8, Townships 11, 12, 13 and 14, Range 7, Township 14, Range 6, Townships 14, 15, 16, Range 5, Townships 16, 17, Range 4, Township 17, Range 3, the Towns of Van Buren, Cyr, Connor, Caswell, Hamlin and all towns and townships north and west thereof in Aroostook County; B. District No. 2. All the towns and townships in Aroostook County not included in Districts Nos. 1 and 3; C. District No. 3. Mount Chase Plantation, Stacyville Plantation, the Town of Patten and Township 2, Range 6, in Penobscot County, and Township 8, Range 5, Township 8, Range 4, Township 8, Range 3, Township C, Range 2, the Town of Monticello and all the towns and townships south thereof in Aroostook County; D. District No. 4. All the remaining counties, towns and townships in the State not included in Districts 1, 2 and 3.

4. Export. "Export" means shipment of potatoes beyond the boundaries of continental United States.

5. Fiscal year. "Fiscal year" means the period beginning July 1st of each year and ending June 30th of the following year.

6. Grade. "Grade" means one of the officially established grades of potatoes and "size" means any one of the officially established sizes of potatoes, as defined and set forth in: A. The United States Standards for Potatoes issued by the Department of Agriculture on September 10, 1941, effective June 1, 1942 (12 F. R. 3651), or amendments thereto, or modifications thereof, or variations based thereon; B. United States Consumer Standards for Potatoes as issued by the United States Department of Agriculture on November 3, 1947, effective December 8, 1947 (12 F. R. 7281), or amendments thereto, or modifications thereof, or variations based thereon; C. State of Maine Standards for Potatoes issued by the commissioner in accordance with section 951 . [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §62 (AMD).] [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §62 (AMD).]

7. Handler. "Handler" is synonymous with shipper and means any person, except a common or contract carrier of potatoes owned by another person, who ships potatoes in fresh form or packs or prepares potatoes for market.

8. Person. "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, association, legal representative or any organized group or business unit.

9. Potatoes. "Potatoes" means all Irish potatoes grown within the State which retain the same physical form as possessed when harvested. The effects of the following operations shall not be considered as changing the physical form possessed by potatoes when harvested: Washing with or without chemicals; drying for the removal of surface moisture; slicing or cutting for seed purposes only; precooling, preheating, ventilating, humidifying or otherwise controlling atmospheric conditions in storage; treating with chemical formulations for sprout inhibition; waxing, packaging or otherwise preparing potatoes for marketing in what is generally considered to be fresh form. [PL 1971, c. 600, §1 (AMD).]

10. Potatoes prepared for market. "Potatoes prepared for market" means and includes all potatoes packed in containers and intended for delivery or in transit or exposed for sale or in the process of delivery or in transit or located at a depot, station, boat dock or any place where potatoes are held in storage or for immediate or future sale or transit.

11. Producer. "Producer" means any person engaged in the production of potatoes for market.

12. Seed potatoes. "Seed potatoes" means and includes all potatoes officially certified and tagged, marked or otherwise appropriately identified, under the supervision of the official seed potato certifying agency of the State.

13. Ship or handle. "Ship" or "handle" means to transport, sell or in any other way to pack or prepare potatoes for market.

14. Table stock potatoes. "Table stock potatoes" means and includes all potatoes not included within the definition of "seed potatoes".

15. Varieties. "Varieties" means and includes all classifications or subdivisions of Irish potatoes according to those definitive characteristics now or hereafter recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture.

16. Wholesale pack. "Wholesale pack" means a unit of 50 pounds net weight or more of potatoes contained in a bag, crate or any other type of container.
7 M.R.S. § 4017 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4017
7 §4017. Rules
Status: in_force

The commissioner may adopt any rules necessary or useful to carry out this chapter pursuant to the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 . [PL 1997, c. 690, §46 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 424 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 424
7 §424. Administration
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall administer and enforce this subchapter. [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

1. Rules. The commissioner may, in a manner consistent with the rulemaking provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 , adopt such rules as may be necessary to carry out and interpret the provisions and purposes of this subchapter. [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

2. Considerations. In carrying out the purposes of this subchapter the commissioner shall consider any and all facts available to the commissioner with respect to the following economic factors: A. The quality of an agricultural commodity available for distribution as well as the quantity of the agricultural commodity that would normally be required by consumers; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §65 (COR).] B. The cost of producing an agricultural commodity, the purchasing power of consumers, and the level of prices of commodities, services and articles that producers commonly buy; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §65 (COR).] C. The level of prices of other commodities that compete with or are utilized as substitutes for an agricultural commodity; and [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §65 (COR).] D. Such other factors as the nature of the location, volume and marketing structure of production of the agricultural commodity. [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).] [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §65 (COR).]

3. Enforcement. The commissioner may institute investigations, hold hearings, require reports, subpoena records and persons and take other actions that the commissioner finds necessary to implement this subchapter. The commissioner may institute such action as may appear necessary to enforce compliance with any provision of this subchapter or any rule, market agreement or order committed to the commissioner's administration under this subchapter. In addition to any other remedy under this subchapter or otherwise, the commissioner may apply for relief by injunction to protect the public interest without being compelled to allege or prove that an adequate remedy at law does not exist and without being compelled to post bond. [PL 2005, c. 512, §7 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3923-G — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 721 / Section 3923-G
7 §3923-G. Internet licensing project
Status: in_force

1. Procedure developed; municipality participation. The commissioner may develop and implement a procedure by which a dog owner can electronically apply for and be issued a dog license using a publicly accessible site on the Internet. A municipality may choose to participate in the electronic dog licensing project by contacting and working with the commissioner. Electronic licensing is available only to residents of a municipality that requests and is accepted by the commissioner to participate in the electronic licensing project. The commissioner may limit the number of municipalities that participate in the project. [PL 2003, c. 405, §15 (NEW).]

2. Forms; verification of rabies immunization. The commissioner shall develop a form to be used for electronic licensing under this section. The commissioner shall consult with the Commissioner of Health and Human Services to establish the information needed to verify rabies immunization. [PL 2003, c. 405, §15 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §7 (REV).]

3. Payment of licensing fee. The commissioner shall establish a mechanism for accepting payment of license fees by credit card. An owner or keeper who applies for a dog license using the publicly accessible site on the Internet developed pursuant to subsection 1 shall pay the fee required under section 3923‑A and an additional service fee of $1 for each license to cover administrative costs and pay the Internet service provider. [PL 2003, c. 405, §15 (NEW).]

4. Distribution of licensing fee. The commissioner shall deposit all fees received under this section into the Animal Welfare Fund. The commissioner shall establish procedures for participating municipalities to periodically receive the appropriate credit or payment for license fees collected by the department under this section. A municipality is entitled to a payment or credit of $3 for each dog licensed under this section. All payments or credits received by a municipality must be deposited or credited to the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 . [PL 2003, c. 405, §15 (NEW).]

5. Sticker requirement. [PL 2007, c. 439, §17 (RP).]

6. Exclusion of wolf hybrids, dangerous dogs and nuisance dogs. This section does not apply to the licensing of a wolf hybrid, a dangerous dog or a nuisance dog. A person owning a wolf hybrid, a dangerous dog or a nuisance dog shall obtain a license from the municipal clerk or the dog recorder for the municipality, plantation or unorganized territory in which the person owning the wolf hybrid, the dangerous dog or the nuisance dog resides. [PL 2021, c. 99, §8 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2213 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2213
7 §2213. Inspections
Status: in_force

1. Inspections of nurseries; sales prohibitions. Inspections of nurseries and sales prohibitions are as follows. A. The State Horticulturist or an assistant shall inspect nurseries as determined necessary by the State Horticulturist. Nurseries must be accessible at reasonable times for inspection. If plant pests are found at sufficient levels to pose a threat to other horticultural establishments or the general public, the State Horticulturist may issue an order to embargo or detain the nursery stock. Upon issuing an order of embargo or detention, the State Horticulturist shall notify the owner of the nursery stock of that order. Within 10 days of receipt of notification, the owner may request a hearing to be held in accordance with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. The State Horticulturist may prescribe measures designed to control the plant pests. The State Horticulturist shall remove the order of embargo or detention if satisfied that the plant pests have been controlled. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).] B. A person may not offer for sale dead nursery stock or stock stressed by drying, excessive heat, excessive cold or any other condition that prevents the normal growth of the stock. A person may not offer for sale nursery stock that is subject to an order of embargo or detention. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).] [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

2. Inspection of orchards, fields and gardens. The State Horticulturist or an assistant may inspect any orchard, field, garden or roadside in public or private grounds if there is reasonable cause to believe the area is infested with a plant pest that may be a threat to plants belonging to other property owners or to the health or safety of the general public. The State Horticulturist, after notice and opportunity for a hearing as provided in the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, may order the owner, occupant or person in charge to take any necessary action including the proper treatment or destruction of infested or diseased plants. If the owner of the property or a person having lawful custody of the plants does not comply with the written order, the commissioner may refer the matter to the Attorney General. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

3. Inspection of other material. A person may request inspection of other material by the State Horticulturist prior to the movement or sale of that material. The commissioner may assess fees to cover the costs associated with those inspections. Funds generated from the fees must be deposited in a nonlapsing account and used to conduct the inspections. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 510 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 510
7 §510. Injunction
Status: in_force

The department may, by application to any court having jurisdiction, obtain an injunction restraining any person who engages in acts which violate this subchapter or the rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto. Upon refusal or neglect to obey the order of court, the court may compel obedience thereof by proceedings for contempt. [PL 1965, c. 65 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 460 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 460
7 §460. Violations
Status: in_force

Any person who commits any of the actions specified in section 457 , except in section 457, subsection 1, paragraph B , or otherwise fails, neglects or refuses to comply with the provisions of this subchapter or any rule promulgated hereunder is subject to the following civil penalties payable to the State, to be recovered in a civil action: [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]

1. First violation. For the first violation, a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000; and [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]

2. Subsequent violation. For each subsequent violation, a civil penalty not to exceed $3,000. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]

The commissioner may recover the penalties imposed for violations in a civil action brought in the commissioner's own name and, if the commissioner prevails in that action, the commissioner may recover full costs. The District Court and the Superior Court have concurrent jurisdiction of the actions. The Attorney General and the several district attorneys shall provide assistance to the commissioner. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §77 (COR).]

All penalties received under this subchapter shall be paid to the Treasurer of State for deposit in the General Fund. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2406 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 413 / Section 2406
7 §2406. University of Maine Cooperative Extension integrated pest management programs
Status: in_force

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension shall develop and implement integrated pest management programs. The extension may seek the advice of the Integrated Pest Management Council established in section 2404 in establishing the programs. The extension shall use the funds deposited pursuant to section 607 for the purposes of this section. The extension shall administer the grant pursuant to section 607, subsection 6, paragraph A . [PL 2013, c. 290, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 290, §4 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 562-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 562-A
7 §562-A. Enforcement obligations
Status: in_force

1. Rules. The department shall adopt rules as it determines appropriate for the proper administration of this subchapter. [PL 1991, c. 57, §4 (NEW).]

2. Violation notices. The department shall issue notices to bottlers and distributors alleged to have violated any provision of this subchapter. A person who violates this subchapter commits a civil violation for which a fine not to exceed $1,000 may be adjudged. The department may also recover costs of investigation, with the limitation that the total fine and costs assessed for a violation may not exceed $1,000. [PL 2003, c. 220, §9 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4202 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4202
7 §4202. Duties of the commissioner
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall implement a program to promote responsible use of farm nutrients in accordance with this chapter. The commissioner has the powers and duties as set forth in this section. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

1. Nutrient management plans. In accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 , the commissioner shall adopt rules to establish minimum requirements for nutrient management plans required under section 4204 , a process for review of the nutrient management plans, periodic revisions to plans and determination of compliance with the plans. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . The commissioner shall maintain a list of farms that have a nutrient management plan based on notification received pursuant to section 4204, subsection 3 . [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

2. Certification of persons to prepare nutrient management plans. The commissioner shall develop a program to train and certify persons in the preparation of nutrient management plans. The commissioner may establish minimum educational requirements for persons eligible for certification. The commissioner may revoke a certification in accordance with section 4210 . [PL 1999, c. 530, §2 (AMD).]

3. Livestock operations permits. The commissioner shall issue livestock operations permits in accordance with section 4205 . The commissioner may revoke a livestock operations permit in accordance with section 4211 . [PL 1999, c. 530, §2 (AMD).]

4. Educational outreach. The commissioner shall conduct an educational outreach program for the agricultural community to increase awareness of the provisions of this chapter and the need for nutrient management planning. The commissioner shall inform the public about manure-related issues and the department's efforts to address manure-related issues. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

5. Enforcement. Whenever it appears to the commissioner that there is or has been a violation of this chapter, rules adopted under this chapter or the conditions of a permit or variance issued under this chapter, the commissioner may initiate an enforcement action. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2321 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 410 / Section 2321
7 §2321. Entry into force and withdrawal -- Article X
Status: in_force

This compact enters into force when enacted into law by 5 or more states. Thereafter, this compact becomes effective, as to any other state, upon that state's enactment thereof. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

Any party state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute repealing the same, but no withdrawal may take effect until 2 years after the executive head of the withdrawing state has given notice in writing of the withdrawal to the executive heads of all other party states. No withdrawal affects any liability already incurred by or chargeable to a party state prior to the time of the withdrawal. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 415 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 415
7 §415. Farmers' market
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Farmers' market" means a building, structure or place used by 2 or more farmers for the direct sale of farm and food products to consumers, at which all sellers of farm and food products meet the requirements of subsection 2, paragraph B . [PL 2009, c. 547, §1 (AMD).] B. "Farm and food products" means any agricultural, horticultural, forest or other product of the soil or water, including, but not limited to, fruits, vegetables, eggs, dairy products, meat and meat products, poultry and poultry products, fish and fish products, grain and grain products, honey, nuts, maple products, apple cider, fruit juice, malt liquor, wine, ornamental or vegetable plants, nursery products, fiber or fiber products, firewood and Christmas trees. [PL 2011, c. 280, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 280, §1 (AMD).]

2. Prohibitions. The following acts are prohibited. A. A person may not use the term "farmers' market" to describe a market or other sales location that does not meet the terms of the definition set forth in subsection 1 . [PL 1993, c. 138, §1 (NEW).] B. A person may not sell farm and food products at a market labeled "farmers' market" unless at least 75% of the products offered by that person were grown or processed by that person or under that person's direction. A product not grown or processed by that person or under that person's direction must have been grown or processed by and purchased directly from another farmer and the name and location of the farm must be identified on the product or on a sign in close proximity to the displayed product. [PL 2009, c. 547, §2 (AMD).] [PL 2009, c. 547, §2 (AMD).]

3. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $200 may be adjudged. [PL 1993, c. 138, §1 (NEW).]

4. Relationship to farmers' market rules. This section does not prohibit a farmers' market from imposing more stringent requirements on its sellers than those imposed by subsection 2, paragraph B or an ordinance adopted pursuant to section 284 . [PL 2023, c. 420, §2 (AMD).]

5. Enforcement; prima facie evidence. The commissioner or an agent of the commissioner may request proof of the origin of a product for the purpose of enforcing this section. Failure to provide written documentation or other reasonable proof upon request as to the origin of the products offered for sale at a farmers' market is prima facie evidence that a person is in violation of this section. [PL 2005, c. 512, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 401-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 401-A
7 §401-A. Legislative findings
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds that the marketing of agricultural commodities produced in the State is crucial to the maintenance and expansion of the agricultural industry, to the preservation of rural life in the State and to the economic well-being of all of the State's people. There exists a need to provide the necessary market information to enable Maine farmers to make wise short-term and long-term production decisions; to establish standards for proper storage, packing and grading of agricultural products; and to create adequate enforceable programs for quality assurance as well as for the effective coordination of promotion and advertising efforts. In order to ensure that these responsibilities are fulfilled, the Legislature finds it necessary to provide state assistance to agricultural marketing and promotion. [PL 2005, c. 512, §4 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4156 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 745 / Section 4156
7 §4156. Responsibilities of purchaser
Status: in_force

To obtain the remedies provided in section 4155 , the purchaser has the following responsibilities with respect to an animal with a health problem. [PL 1995, c. 589, §1 (NEW).]

1. Veterinary diagnosis. The purchaser must notify the seller, within 2 business days, of the diagnosis by a veterinarian of a health problem and provide the seller with the name and telephone number of the veterinarian and a copy of the veterinarian report on the animal. [PL 2007, c. 702, §28 (AMD).]

2. Refund. If the purchaser wishes to receive a full refund for the animal, the purchaser must return the animal no later than 2 business days after receipt of a written statement from a veterinarian indicating that the animal is unfit due to a health problem. With respect to a dead animal, the purchaser must provide the seller with a written statement from a veterinarian indicating that the animal died from a health problem that existed on or before the receipt of the animal by the purchaser. This subsection does not apply to a refund requested pursuant to section 4155, subsection 3, paragraph D . [PL 2019, c. 90, §4 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1017 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1017
7 §1017. Violations
Status: in_force

1. Acts enumerated. The commissioner or the commissioner's duly authorized agent may refuse to grant or renew a license, after notice and opportunity for a hearing is provided in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act as to adjudicatory proceedings, upon a finding that any of the following acts have existed within 2 years of the date of the filing of an application for license: A. That fraudulent charges or returns have been made by the applicant or licensee for the handling, sale or storage of potatoes or rotation crops, or for the rendering of any service in connection with the handling, sale or storage of potatoes or rotation crops; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] B. That the applicant or licensee has failed or refused to render a true account of sales, or to make a settlement thereon, within the time and in the manner required by this Article, or has failed or refused to pay for potatoes or rotation crops purchased by the applicant or licensee within 30 calendar days after acceptance of the potatoes or rotation crops; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] C. That the applicant or licensee has knowingly made any false material statement as to the condition, quality or quantity of potatoes or rotation crops received, handled, sold, purchased or stored by the applicant or licensee; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] D. That the applicant or licensee directly or indirectly has purchased for that applicant's or licensee's own account, potatoes or rotation crops received by the applicant or licensee upon consignment without prior authorization from consignor together with price fixed by consignor or without promptly notifying the consignor of such purchase. This does not prevent any dealer, processor, broker, agent or retailer, in order to close the day's business, from taking into account in the record of sales miscellaneous lots or parcels of potatoes or rotation crops remaining unsold, if such dealer, processor, broker, agent or retailer on the business day next following properly enters any such transaction in that applicant's or licensee's accounts; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] E. That the applicant or licensee has made any substantial misrepresentation as to the conditions of the market for potatoes or rotation crops; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] F. That the applicant or licensee has made fictitious sales or has defrauded or attempted to defraud a producer; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] G. That a dealer, processor, broker, agent or retailer to whom any consignment is made has reconsigned such consignment to another dealer, processor, broker, agent or retailer and has received, collected or charged by such means more than one commission for making the sale therefor for the consignor without written consent of such consignor; [PL 1975, c. 555, §5 (AMD).] H. That the licensee knowingly made any false material statements in the procurement of such license; [PL 1971, c. 366 (NEW).] I. That the applicant or licensee has not accounted promptly and properly to the producer with regard to any claim settled or collected by the applicant or licensee for such producer; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] J. That the applicant or licensee has failed or refused, upon demand, to permit the commissioner or the commissioner's agents to make the investigations, examinations or audits as provided in this Article or that the applicant or licensee has removed or sequestered any books, records or papers necessary to any such investigations, examinations or audits, or has otherwise obstructed the same; [PL 1997, c. 606, §10 (AMD).] K. That the licensee has failed or refused to keep and maintain the records as required by this Article; [PL 1971, c. 366 (NEW).] L. That the applicant or licensee has committed any act or conduct with regard to the handling, sale or storage of potatoes or rotation crops whether of the same or different character than specified in this subsection, which constitutes or demonstrates bad faith, incompetency or untrustworthiness, or dishonest, fraudulent or improper dealings; [PL 2005, c. 333, §2 (AMD).] M. That the applicant or licensee has failed to deliver to the seller the confirmation required by section 1022 within the time specified; or [PL 2005, c. 333, §2 (AMD).] N. That the applicant or licensee has failed to maintain a bond to ensure financial responsibility to producers or other licensees as required under section 1015 . [PL 2005, c. 333, §2 (NEW).] The District Court may, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, suspend or revoke a license upon finding any of the enumerated violations within 2 years of the date of the filing of a complaint. [PL 2005, c. 333, §2 (AMD).]

1-A. Mandatory nonrenewal. [PL 1983, c. 829, §15 (RP).]

2. Conditional. Any order revoking or suspending a license may, within the discretion of the District Court be made conditional upon the settlement, adjustment or satisfaction of the consequence of the violation or violations as specified, and the operation of such an order may be deferred for such purpose. Any such order may contain provisions for modification or dismissal thereof upon presentation to the District Court of evidence that the matter of complaint has been settled, adjusted or withdrawn at any time before such order becomes final. [PL 1977, c. 694, §105 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §78 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]

3. Effective date. The commission of the acts enumerated in this section after September 23, 1971 constitutes a violation of this Article. [PL 1975, c. 555, §§4, 5 (AMD).]

4. Notification of insufficient or no payment. Producers may notify the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry of insufficient or no payment for potatoes or rotation crops after acceptance by any processor, dealer, broker, agent or retailer in the State in violation of subsection 1, paragraph B . A. The Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the commissioner's agent, upon notification by producers of insufficient or no payment, shall immediately investigate the complaint and shall, in a manner consistent with the provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act as to adjudicatory proceedings, hold a hearing, unless such hearing is waived by the processor, dealer, broker, agent or retailer against whom the charge has been made. The processor, dealer, broker, agent or retailer accused of nonpayment shall provide the commissioner with a copy of the contract, if any, and all other materials and information to enable the commissioner to carry out the provisions of this section. Upon finding after investigation that the processor, dealer, broker, agent or retailer has violated the contract, express or implied, the commissioner may recover the proceeds of the bond required by section 1015 and apply those proceeds against the amounts owed producers. In the event the bond proceeds are inadequate to cover the debts owed producers, the commissioner shall require the processor, dealer, broker, agent or retailer to post an additional bond sufficient to cover the remaining debt owed to the producer or producers. (1) The commissioner, after determination upon a hearing of insufficient payment or nonpayment of debts owed to a producer, may require the licensee to formulate a schedule of payments to the producer that is satisfactory to the commissioner. The schedule of payments may not exceed a 30-day period. (2) The licensee, who after a hearing is determined to be in default of payment to a producer, shall submit a payment schedule to the commissioner within one week from the commissioner's request for a payment schedule. In the event that the schedule of payment is not satisfactory to the commissioner, the commissioner shall establish the schedule of payment not to exceed a 30-day period. (3) The commissioner shall file a complaint with the District Court seeking to suspend the license of any licensee who fails to conform to the payment schedule established in this section until the producer is paid the total claim to which the producer is entitled. (4) Upon the filing of a complaint by the commissioner in the District Court, the licensee shall post a bond sufficient to cover the total claim owed the producer on the date on which the complaint is filed. The bond required for an appeal procedure may be waived by the District Court in the event that the bond required by the commissioner under section 1015 or this paragraph is valid and sufficient to cover the total claim owed the producer. (5) Nothing in this section may be construed to prohibit a producer from seeking redress for insufficient payment or nonpayment from licensees in any court or in accordance with any federal procedure established to obtain redress. [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV); PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. D, §2 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §§5, 6 (REV); PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. D, §2 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2188 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 404 / Section 2188
7 §2188. Fees
Status: in_force

An application fee and an examination fee may be established by the department in amounts that are reasonable and necessary for their respective purposes. After an applicant is notified of the applicant's eligibility for a license following examination, the applicant shall submit the annual license fee before a license is issued. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]

The fee for an original or renewal annual license may not exceed $180. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. T, §1 (AMD).]

All money, including application fees, examination fees and license fees received pursuant to this section, must be paid to the Treasurer of State and credited to a separate, nonlapsing account in the department. Money received pursuant to this section must be used for the expenses of administering this chapter. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 56 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 56
7 §56. Prohibited acts
Status: in_force

1. Inconsistent development. An owner of abutting land may not undertake or allow any inconsistent development upon or use of land within 100 feet of registered farmland that was properly registered within the time frame provided under section 53‑B, subsection 1 and has been continuously and properly registered since the initial registration. [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (AMD).]

1-A. Incompatible use. Except as provided in section 57 , an owner of abutting land may not undertake or allow an incompatible use within 50 feet of farmland properly registered under section 53‑I . [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (NEW).]

2. Building permit. Except as provided in section 57 , a municipality may not issue a building or use permit allowing any development or use that is prohibited under subsection 1 or 1‑A . [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (AMD).]

3. Exemption. This section does not apply to: A. For land adjacent to farmland registered within the time frame provided under section 53‑B, subsection 1 , a lot or parcel of land that, together with any adjoining lot or parcel in the same ownership, was one acre or less in area as of January 1, 1988; [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (AMD).] A-1. For land adjacent to farmland registered pursuant to section 53‑I , a lot or parcel of land that, together with any adjoining lot or parcel in the same ownership, was one acre or less in area as of January 1, 2012; [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (NEW).] B. Those subdivisions for which a completed application as described in former Title 30, section 4956, subsection 2, paragraph C‑1, or Title 30‑A, section 4403, subsection 3 , has been filed or approved in the 2 years preceding the registration; or [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] C. A lot on which inconsistent development or incompatible use has been allowed by permit granted by a state or local government in the 2 years preceding the registration. [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 608, §15 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 212 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 212
7 §212. Definitions
Status: in_force

1. Brokers or wholesalers. [PL 2019, c. 677, §2 (RP).]

2. Maine food producer. "Maine food producer" means any person who is a resident farmer, person who fishes commercially or processor of food grown or harvested in the State, or an association of resident farmers, persons who fish commercially or food processors in a cooperative or producer group. [PL 2019, c. 677, §3 (AMD).]

3. State or school purchaser. [PL 2019, c. 677, §4 (RP).]
7 M.R.S. § 53-C — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 53-C
7 §53-C. Registration contents and purpose
Status: in_force

The purpose of a registration is to provide a public record of the existence of actively used farmland in order to assist public disclosure and the setback of inconsistent development under section 56 . A registration must include: [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (AMD).]

1. Landowner. The name and address of the landowner; [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

2. Certification. Certification by the applicable soil and water conservation district that the land is farmland in accordance with the provisions of Title 12, section 6‑A ; [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

3. Farm and open space classification. [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (RP).]

4. Crops. The types of farm products that are grown on the farmland to be registered; [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (AMD).]

5. Acreage. The acreage of farmland to be registered; [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

6. Income. [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (RP).]

7. Maps. A copy of the municipal tax map, when available, and a statement of the tax parcel number or numbers that include the land at issue and any other maps needed to clearly show the location of the land, including a depiction of the distance between areas producing farm products and any property boundary within 100 feet for farmland registered within the time frame provided under section 53‑B, subsection 1 and 50 feet for farmland registered pursuant to section 53‑I ; [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (AMD).]

8. Deed. A copy of the registrant's deed; and [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

9. Abutter. The names and addresses of each abutting landowner to whom notice is being sent pursuant to section 53‑D . [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

Records of registered farmland must be maintained by each municipality and county registry of deeds in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Registration must be on forms provided by the department. [PL 2011, c. 608, §7 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2314 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 410 / Section 2314
7 §2314. The insurance fund -- Article III
Status: in_force

The Pest Control Insurance Fund is established for the purpose of financing other than normal pest control operations that the states may be called upon to engage in pursuant to this compact. The insurance fund contains money appropriated to it by the party states and any donations and grants accepted by it. All appropriations, except as conditioned by the rights and obligations of party states expressly set forth in this compact, are unconditional and may not be restricted by the appropriating state to use in the control of any specified pest or pests. Donations and grants may be conditional or unconditional, except that the insurance fund may not accept any donation or grant whose terms are inconsistent with any provision of this compact. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 973-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 973-A
7 §973-A. Administration of Potato Marketing Improvement Fund
Status: in_force

The board shall administer the fund. [PL 2013, c. 403, §5 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4162 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 745 / Section 4162
7 §4162. Additional penalties
Status: in_force

1. Civil violation. A person who fails to meet a requirement of this chapter commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $50 or more than $500 per violation may be adjudged. [PL 2009, c. 343, §24 (AMD).]

2. Action against pet shops and breeding kennels. The department may, in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 5 , revoke or suspend the license of a pet shop or breeding kennel that violates any provision of this chapter or rules adopted under section 3906-B, subsection 10 to implement this chapter. A. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).] B. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).] C. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).] D. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).] E. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).] [PL 2009, c. 343, §24 (AMD).]

3. Action against license. [PL 1997, c. 690, §55 (RP).]
7 M.R.S. § 197 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 7 / Section 197
7 §197. Meat processing workforce development and education
Status: in_force

The University of Maine within available funding shall provide cooperative extension education regarding meat and poultry processing, including quality control training and hazard analysis and critical control point training and plan development for meat and poultry processors. [RR 2023, c. 1, Pt. A, §4 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 2988 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 603-A / Section 2988
7 §2988. Civil action by injured person
Status: in_force

1. Injunctive relief; damages and costs. Any person damaged or who is threatened with loss or injury by reason of a violation of section 2983 may bring a civil action in the Superior Court in the county where the person resides, to prevent, restrain or enjoin the violation or threatened violation. If in that action a violation or threatened violation of section 2983 is established, the court may enjoin and restrain or otherwise prohibit the violation or threatened violation. In that action it is not necessary that actual damages to the plaintiff be alleged or proved. In addition to the injunctive relief, the plaintiff in the action is entitled to recover from the defendant 3 times the amount of actual damages sustained by the plaintiff and the costs of the action, including reasonable attorneys' fees. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §144 (COR).]

2. Damages only. In the event no injunctive relief is sought or required, any person injured by a violation of section 2983 may maintain an action for damages alone in the Superior Court in the county where the person resides and the measure of damages in the action is the same as prescribed in subsection 1 . [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §144 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 1054 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1054
7 §1054. Rulemaking
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall adopt rules to establish best management practices to maintain the integrity of crops and minimize potential conflict between farmers. Rules adopted under this section are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2007, c. 602, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 954-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 954-A
7 §954-A. Seizure of misbranded, mislabeled or misrepresented product
Status: in_force

Whenever the commissioner or his duly authorized representative shall find from inspection, as authorized in section 956 , that potatoes are being sold, exposed for sale, or shipped for sale in containers, and the containers bear any statements, design or device regarding such potatoes which shall be false or misleading, in any particular, or if potatoes are packed in such manner that the face or shown surface is not an average of the contents of the package, or if such potatoes fail to meet the minimum grade requirements established as a state grade by the commissioner, or if the potatoes are not accompanied by a proper bill of lading or invoice as provided by section 952 , then the commissioner, or his duly authorized representative, may seize such potatoes so that they cannot be sold, offered, exposed for sale or transported. Any potatoes seized by the commissioner or his duly authorized representative for failure to meet the minimum grade requirements established by the commissioner shall be returned to the person, firm, or corporation responsible for packing the potatoes at the point of origin. Misbranded potatoes shall not be exposed or offered for sale or transported until such potatoes have been regraded and are accompanied by a federal-state inspection certificate showing that the potatoes meet the minimum grade requirements specified on the container. [PL 1975, c. 687, §1 (AMD).]

Notwithstanding section 957 , any violation of this section shall constitute a separate civil violation with a minimum penalty of $1,000 for each occurrence. Each lot of potatoes exposed or offered for sale, transported, shipped or dumped without the requisite federal and state inspection certificate required under this section showing that the potatoes meet the minimum grade requirements specified on the container shall constitute a separate violation. There is no violation if the potatoes are removed from the containers under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and are to be used for processing or charitable purposes. [PL 1989, c. 605 (NEW); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §5 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 1007-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1007-A
7 §1007-A. Improperly maintaining cull potato piles; public nuisance
Status: in_force

1. Declaration of public nuisance. The Legislature declares that the A2 strain of late blight and other potato diseases constitute a clear and present danger to the potato industry in the State, which is a significant part of the State's economy. Control of the A2 strain of potato blight and other potato diseases requires the proper disposal of cull potato piles. The Legislature finds it necessary to exercise the police power of the State to require proper disposal of cull potatoes and cull potato piles and to provide procedures for the disposal of these potatoes by the department when the responsible party fails to comply with the requirements of this section. In addition to constituting a civil violation as prescribed in this section, cull potato piles that are not managed and disposed of in accordance with these requirements are considered a public nuisance and are subject to action under Title 17, chapter 91 . [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (AMD).]

1-A. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Cull potatoes" means: (1) Potatoes that are not marketable or usable for human consumption or as seed potatoes; (2) Potatoes that are used for animal feed; (3) The residue potatoes left in the field from commercial or seed potato production the preceding year; and (4) Potatoes that spoil while in storage. [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).] B. "Responsible party" means the owner or lessee of the property on which cull potatoes are found or another person determined to be responsible for the potatoes in accordance with rules adopted under subsection 3 . [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).]

2. Disposal requirements; maintenance of cull potato piles. The commissioner shall adopt rules in accordance with subsection 3 to prescribe acceptable methods for disposal of cull potatoes and establish best management practices for maintaining cull potato piles. Except as provided in rules adopted under subsection 3, all cull potatoes must be properly disposed of on or before June 10th of each year. A person who keeps a pile of cull potatoes shall maintain the pile in accordance with best management practices. Upon inspection authorized under subsection 4 , the commissioner may determine site-specific best management practices for a pile of cull potatoes and order the responsible party to comply with these practices. [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (AMD).]

3. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt any rules necessary to implement this section in accordance with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, except that the commissioner may shorten or suspend the notice and hearing requirements as necessary to respond to an imminent threat of disease. The commissioner shall adopt a set of best management practices for the maintenance of cull potato piles between June 10th and October 1st and may adopt a different set of best management practices applicable to piles maintained between October 1st of one year and June 10th of the following year. The commissioner may use emergency rulemaking to temporarily vary: A. The dates established in subsection 2 when circumstances require that cull potatoes be disposed of prior to the June 10th date to prevent or minimize the spread of disease; [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).] B. The dates established in subsection 2 when weather or economic circumstances allow an extension of the time period during which cull potato piles may be maintained without significantly increasing the threat of disease; and [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).] C. The best management practices prescribed for maintaining cull potato piles when these practices are found inadequate to protect against an imminent threat. [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (NEW).] Except in an emergency, the commissioner shall consult with the Maine Potato Board prior to adopting rules under this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (AMD).]

4. Department action. The commissioner may take action to properly dispose of or manage cull potatoes and cull potato piles that violate the requirements of this section or any rules of the commissioner adopted to implement this section. The commissioner or the commissioner's designee is authorized to enter any property to inspect cull potato piles and to take any action required to secure their proper disposal or management. Designated representatives of the commissioner may, without search warrant, enter at reasonable times any real property, other than a building, where potatoes are grown, stored, packed, loaded for shipment or handled, and may enter any building, either with the consent of the owner, lessee, occupant or agent or pursuant to an administrative search warrant. Notwithstanding the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 80E, paragraph (b), the commissioner or the commissioner's designee may obtain an administrative search warrant pursuant to this section by describing the premises to be entered and the purpose of the inspection or other authorized action and by demonstrating that the entry is necessary in order to inspect potato cull piles or otherwise carry out the requirements of this section. This demonstration is deemed to be a demonstration of probable cause. The costs incurred by the department in removing and properly disposing of or managing cull potatoes and cull potato piles must be reimbursed by the responsible party or parties, each of whom is jointly and severally liable for those costs to the department. The department, its employees and agents and any person acting on behalf of the department are not liable for any action taken pursuant to this section. [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (AMD).]

5. Potato Cull Removal Fund. The Potato Cull Removal Fund is established to be used by the department to administer and enforce the provisions of this section and to pay any expenses of cull potato management, removal or disposal. The commissioner may receive funds from any source to be deposited into this fund, which does not lapse. If at any time the balance of the fund falls below $15,000, any penalties collected under this section must be deposited into the fund. Otherwise, penalties collected must be deposited into the General Fund. [PL 2007, c. 570, §1 (AMD).]

6. Civil penalties. Any person who violates any of the requirements of this section or any rules adopted under this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $1,000 for each violation, together with not more than $1,000 for each succeeding day of a continuing violation, may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 512, §43 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1013 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1013
7 §1013. Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, make uniform rules and regulations for carrying out this Article. [PL 1977, c. 694, §100 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1301 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 201 / Section 1301
7 §1301. Purpose
Status: in_force

The purposes of this chapter are to maintain fair and equitable practices in the buying and selling of livestock and poultry within this State, and to encourage practices that promote the sale of healthy livestock and poultry. In respect to dealers in livestock and poultry this chapter supplements and does not supersede other provisions of the laws relating to the control of livestock and poultry diseases under this Title. [PL 2001, c. 572, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1026 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1026
7 §1026. Enforcement
Status: in_force

The commissioner may recover the penalties imposed for violations of this Article and any rules and regulations promulgated thereunder in a civil action brought in the commissioner's own name, the venue to be as in other civil actions and, if the commissioner prevails in that action, the commissioner may recover full costs, including, but not limited to, attorney's fees. The commissioner is entitled to the assistance of the Attorney General and of the several district attorneys. [PL 2005, c. 333, §5 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 457 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 457
7 §457. Refusal, suspension, revocation of license
Status: in_force

1. Acts enumerated. The commissioner or the commissioner's duly authorized agent may refuse to grant a license, after notice and opportunity for a hearing is provided in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act as to adjudicatory proceedings, upon a finding that any of the following acts have occurred: A. That fraudulent charges or returns have been made by the applicant or licensee for the handling, sale or storage of licensed commodities or for the rendering of any service in connection with the handling, sale or storage of licensed commodities; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] B. That the applicant or licensee has failed or refused to render a true account of sales, or to make a settlement thereon, within the time and in the manner required by this subchapter or has failed to or refused to pay for licensed commodities purchased by the applicant or licensee within 30 days after acceptance of the licensed commodities; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] C. That the applicant or licensee has knowingly made any false material statement as to the condition, quality or quantity of licensed commodities received, handled, sold, purchased or stored by the applicant or licensee; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §74 (COR).] D. That the applicant or licensee has knowingly made any substantial misrepresentation as to the condition of the market for licensed commodities; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] E. That the applicant or licensee has defrauded or attempted to defraud a producer; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] F. That the applicant or licensee to whom any consignment is made has reconsigned the consignment to another dealer, processor, broker or agent and has received, collected or charged by such means more than one commission for making the sale for the consignor without previously obtaining the written consent of the consignor; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] G. That the applicant or licensee knowingly made any false material statements in the procurement of a license under this subchapter; [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] H. That the applicant or licensee has not accounted promptly and properly to the producer with regard to any claim settled or collected by the applicant or licensee for the producer; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §74 (COR).] I. That the applicant or licensee has failed or refused, upon demand, to permit the commissioner or the commissioner's agents to make the investigations, examinations or audits as provided in this subchapter or that the applicant or licensee has removed or sequestered any books, records or papers necessary to any such investigations, examinations or audits or has otherwise obstructed the same; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §74 (COR).] J. That the applicant or licensee has failed or refused to keep and maintain the records as required by this subchapter; or [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).] K. That the applicant or licensee has committed any act or conduct with regard to the handling, sale or storage of licensed commodities, whether of the same or different character than specified in this subsection, that constitutes or demonstrates bad faith, incompetency, untrustworthiness or dishonest, fraudulent or improper dealings. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §74 (COR).] [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §74 (COR).]

2. District Court. The District Court may, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, suspend or revoke a license upon finding that the licensee has committed any of the Acts enumerated in subsection 1 . Any order revoking or suspending a license may, within the discretion of the District Court, be made conditional upon the settlement, adjustment or satisfaction of the consequence of the violation or violations as specified and the operation of such an order may be deferred for that purpose. Any order may contain provisions for its modification or dismissal upon presentation to the District Court of evidence that the matter of complaint has been settled, adjusted or withdrawn at any time before the order becomes final. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §78 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]

3. Notification of insufficient payment or nonpayment. Producers may notify the commissioner of insufficient payment or nonpayment for licensed commodities delivered to any agent, broker, dealer or processor in violation of subsection 1, paragraph B . In addition to any other remedies available under this subchapter: A. The commissioner or the commissioner's agent, upon notification by a producer of insufficient payment or nonpayment, shall immediately investigate the complaint and shall, in a manner consistent with the provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, hold a hearing. The person accused of nonpayment, the respondent, shall provide the commissioner with a copy of the contract, if any, and all other materials and information necessary to enable the commissioner to carry out this section. Upon finding that the respondent has violated the contract or other obligation, express or implied, the commissioner shall require the respondent to post a bond sufficient to cover the debt owed to the producer or producers. Failure to post the bond must be considered a violation of this subchapter and each day failure continues must be considered a separate violation; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §75 (COR).] B. The commissioner may require the licensee, accused of or found after a hearing to be in default of payment to a producer, to submit a payment schedule to the commissioner. In the event that the schedule of payment proposed is not satisfactory to the commissioner, the commissioner may establish the schedule of payment; and [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §76 (COR).] C. The commissioner may file a complaint with the District Court to compel the posting of a bond required under paragraph A and to suspend the license of any licensee who fails to conform to the payment schedule established in this subsection until the producer is paid the total claim to which the producer is entitled. Upon the filing of a complaint by the commissioner in the District Court, the licensee shall post a bond sufficient to cover the total claim on the date on which the complaint is filed. The bond required in a court proceeding may be waived by the District Court in the event that the bond required in paragraph A is valid and sufficient to cover the total claimed. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to prohibit a producer from seeking redress for insufficient payment or nonpayment from licensees in any court or in accordance with any other state and federal procedure established to obtain redress. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §78 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).] [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §§75, 76 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 975-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 975-A
7 §975-A. Interest on Potato Marketing Improvement Fund balance
Status: in_force

All or any portion of the interest earned or accruing on the cash balance of the Potato Marketing Improvement Fund may be used for grants to partially or fully fund research projects to study and assess technical problems experienced with new and retrofitted storage facilities and to develop means of dealing with such problems, or to examine, monitor and develop new technologies for the production, storage and handling of potatoes or to fund programs and activities that improve the economic viability of the potato industry. [PL 2005, c. 335, §5 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1024 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1024
7 §1024. Exemptions
Status: in_force

1. Producers. Producers are exempt from this Article when selling potatoes or rotation crops that they have grown, that they are presently growing or that they intend to grow, except when acting as an agent. [PL 1997, c. 606, §17 (AMD).]

2. Processors. [PL 1975, c. 555, §6 (RP).]

3. Retailers. Retailers are exempt from this Article. [PL 1971, c. 600, §10 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1015 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1015
7 §1015. Application and renewal for license
Status: in_force

The applicant shall file an application for a license or renewal of a license on forms as prescribed and furnished by the commissioner, which must contain the full name of the person applying for the license and, if the applicant is a corporation, partnership, association, exchange or legal representative, officer, director, partner or member of a corporation, partnership, association or exchange, all such names and positions. If the applicant is a foreign corporation, it shall certify that it is authorized to transact business in the State under former Title 13‑A, chapter 12 or Title 13‑C, chapter 15 , and further state the principal business address of the applicant in the State or elsewhere, the address of all places of business in the State, and the name or names of the person or persons authorized to receive and accept service of lawful process upon the applicant within the State. All questions required to be answered in the application for licenses must be sworn to, and intentionally untruthful answers constitute the crime of perjury. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD).]

Upon receipt of an initial application, the commissioner immediately shall cause notice of the application to be provided in a manner consistent with the provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act as to adjudicatory proceedings and shall, in any case, cause a copy of the notice to be served upon the Maine Potato Board. Any interested person has 30 days in which to file comments as to the applicant's qualifications, to request a hearing or to file a verified complaint with the commissioner as provided by this Article. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD).]

This applicant shall satisfy the commissioner of that applicant's character, financial responsibility and good faith in seeking to engage in the business. The commissioner shall, after notice and opportunity for a hearing has been provided in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act as to adjudicatory proceedings, issue a license to an applicant if the commissioner is satisfied as to the applicant's qualifications, such license entitling the applicant to act in the capacity described in the license for a period of one year from the date of issuance. A license may not be granted to any applicant if such person or officer, director, partner, or member thereof, has been convicted in any state or federal court of any felony within 5 years of the date of the application. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD).]

In order to insure the licensee's financial responsibility and to protect potato and rotation crop producers, the commissioner shall require the licensee to file a bond as a prerequisite to the issuance of a license. The bond must be in a form and amount satisfactory to the commissioner, but not less than $50,000 nor more than $300,000 in the case of dealers and brokers engaged in buying or selling either potatoes or rotation crops, but not both, not less than $50,000 nor more than $400,000 in the case of dealers and brokers engaged in buying and selling both potatoes and rotation crops, or not less than $100,000 nor more than $500,000 in the case of processors, payable to the commissioner in the commissioner's official capacity and conditioned on the full and prompt payment for all potatoes or rotation crops received or purchased from producers or other licensees during the effective period of the license. In the case of processors, the amount of bond required must be based on the licensee's anticipated monthly volume of purchases, but may be adjusted to reflect other federal escrow accounts or bond requirements met by the licensee that satisfy the purposes of this section. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD).]

Each license must plainly state the name and business address or addresses of the licensee and must be posted in a conspicuous place in each office where the business is transacted. The fee for each license is $100 annually. Such license may be renewed for successive periods of one year each upon payment of the renewal fee and the submission of an application demonstrating that the applicant continues to meet the requirements for licensing, including filing proof of financial responsibility. A license or license renewal issued expires on the 30th day of June following the date of issuance. The department is not required to provide notice and opportunity for a hearing as provided in the Maine Administrative Procedure Act when granting a license renewal. If the licensee desires to carry on business in more than one place within the State, the licensee shall procure additional copies of the license, certified by the commissioner, for each place where the business is to be conducted. The fee for each such additional certification is $100. In the event a person required to be licensed under this section fails to renew that person's license or submit the annual proof of financial responsibility, the department shall promptly provide notice to members of the potato producing industry through the Maine Potato Board and an agricultural bargaining council. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD).]

All fees collected under this Article must be paid to the Treasurer of State and credited to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry for the administration of this Article and other expenses incident to the administration of the department, and must be expended by the commissioner for the purposes for which the department is created. If any of such fees are not expended during the year in which they are collected, the unexpended balance does not lapse, but must be carried as a continuing account and available for the purposes specified until expended. [PL 2005, c. 333, §1 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 624 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 624
7 §624. Repealers
Status: in_force

Jurisdiction in all matters pertaining to the registration, distribution and disposal of pesticides and devices is by this subchapter vested exclusively in the board. [PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. E, §21 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4205 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4205
7 §4205. Livestock operations permit
Status: in_force

1. Operations requiring a livestock operations permit. Beginning on January 1, 2000, a permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to subsection 2 is required for an animal feeding operation that meets one or more of the following criteria: A. The operation is a concentrated animal feeding operation as defined by rules adopted pursuant to this section; [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).] B. The operation confines and feeds 300 or more animal units and prior to April 15, 1998 the operation did not confine and feed 300 or more animal units; or [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).] C. Proposes an expansion beyond the operation's manure storage capacity or land base used for spreading. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).] [PL 1999, c. 530, §4 (AMD).]

2. Criteria for issuing permits; rulemaking. An applicant for a permit required under this section must submit to the commissioner a nutrient management plan that meets the requirements established pursuant to section 4204 . A nutrient management plan submitted in accordance with this subsection is confidential and is not a public record as defined in Title 1, section 402, subsection 3 . Prior to issuing a permit, the commissioner or a designee of the commissioner shall inspect the operation and determine that the operation is in compliance with the nutrient management plan. The commissioner may issue a provisional permit in accordance with subsection 3 . The commissioner shall adopt rules in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 to establish a process for application review and issuing permits required under this section. The rules may establish permit application fees, inspection requirements and procedures for review by the board of permitting decisions. Rules initially adopted pursuant to this section are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . After July 1, 1999, rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 1999, c. 530, §4 (AMD).]

3. Provisional permit. The commissioner may issue a provisional permit to an operation that is not in compliance with the farm's nutrient management plan at the time of inspection. In issuing a provisional permit, the commissioner shall consider existing nutrient management practices on the farm, the protection of groundwater and surface water, the cost of implementing the plan and the availability of financial assistance to implement the plan. A provisional permit must state the date by which the farm must be in compliance with the plan and may not be issued for a period of more than one year. Upon inspection and determination of compliance, the commissioner shall issue a permit in accordance with subsection 2 and the provisional permit expires. The commissioner shall adopt rules in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 to establish a process for application review and issuing of provisional permits. Rules adopted in accordance with this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [RR 1999, c. 1, §6 (COR).]

4. Violation. The following are civil violations for which a fine of up to $1,000 plus up to an additional $250 per day for each day that the violation continues may be adjudged: A. Failure to obtain a livestock operations permit in accordance with this section; and [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §27 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Failure to comply with the conditions set forth in a livestock operations permit or a variance. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §27 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §27 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 4014 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4014
7 §4014. Necessary medical attention
Status: in_force

No person owning or responsible for confining or impounding any animal may fail to supply the animal with necessary medical attention when the animal is or has been suffering from illness, injury, disease, excessive parasitism or malformed or overgrown hoof. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2303 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 409 / Section 2303
7 §2303. Penalties
Status: in_force

1. Civil violation. A person who violates a rule adopted pursuant to section 2301 commits a civil violation. [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).]

2. Penalty. Except as provided in subsection 3 , the following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $1,000 may be adjudged for each day of that violation. [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this section after having been adjudicated of a violation of this section within the previous 5-year period commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $1,000 and not more than $2,000 may be adjudged for each day of that violation. [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).]

3. Economic benefit. If the economic benefit resulting from a violation under subsection 1 exceeds the applicable penalties under subsection 2 , the maximum fines may be increased. The maximum fine may not exceed an amount equal to twice the economic benefit resulting from the violation. The court shall consider as economic benefit, without limitation, the costs avoided or the enhanced value accrued at the time of the violation by the violator as a result of not complying with the applicable legal requirements. [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).]

4. Costs permitted. In any action or proceeding brought by the Attorney General under this section, the court may award litigation costs, including court costs, reasonable attorney's fees and reasonable expert witness fees, to be deposited in the General Fund if the State or any of its officers or agencies is a prevailing party in the action or proceeding and the defendant's defense was not substantially justified. For the purposes of this subsection, a defense is substantially justified if the defense had a reasonable basis in law or fact at the time it was raised. [PL 2019, c. 595, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 892-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 892-A
7 §892-A. Official grade standards for maple syrup
Status: in_force

(CONTAINS TEXT WITH VARYING EFFECTIVE DATES)

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Brix" means the scale used to measure the specific gravity of maple syrup. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] B. "Damage" means any defect that affects the color, appearance, flavor, aroma, edibility or shipping quality of maple syrup. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] C. "Light transmission" means the ability of maple syrup to transmit light as determined optically by means of a spectrophotometer. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] D. (TEXT EFFECTIVE UNTIL CONTINGENCY: See PL 2013, c. 117, §3) "Maple syrup," which may also be spelled "maple sirop" or "maple sirup," means the liquid derived by concentration and heat treatment of the sap of maple trees, (Acer) or by the solution in water of maple sugar or maple concentrate made from such sap. The solids content of maple syrup may not be less than 66% by weight or more than 69% by weight, as measured in Brix units at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. [PL 2007, c. 24, §1 (AMD).] D. (TEXT EFFECTIVE ON CONTINGENCY: See PL 2013, c. 117, §3) "Maple syrup," which may also be spelled "maple sirop" or "maple sirup," means the liquid derived by concentration and heat treatment of the sap of maple trees, (Acer) or by the solution in water of maple sugar or maple concentrate made from such sap. The solids content of maple syrup may not be less than 66% by weight or more than 68.9% by weight, as measured in Brix units at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. [PL 2013, c. 117, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] E. The symbol "%Tc" means the percentage of light transmission through maple syrup, measurable by a spectrophotometer using matched square optical cells having a 10-millimeter light path at a wavelength of 560 nanometers, the color values being expressed in percent of light transmission as compared to A.R. Glycerol fixed at 100% transmission. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 24, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 117, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).]

2. (TEXT EFFECTIVE UNTIL CONTINGENCY: See PL 2013, c. 117, §3) Maple syrup grades. The following grades are established as the official maple syrup grade standards for the State. A. "Grade A Light Amber" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color no darker than the federal Department of Agriculture's visual color standard light amber or has a color for light transmittance not less than 75.0%Tc; has a delicately sweet, original maple flavor; and has a density of at least the equivalent of 66.0° Brix at 60° Fahrenheit Modulus 145. Grade A Light Amber maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] B. "Grade A Medium Amber" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color no darker than the federal Department of Agriculture's visual color standard medium amber or has a color for light transmittance between the range of 74.9%Tc to 60.5%Tc; and may have a flavor that is more pronounced than that of Grade A Light Amber, but that is not strong or unpleasant. Grade A Medium Amber must meet the density requirement of Grade A Light Amber. Grade A Medium Amber maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] C. "Grade A Dark Amber" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color no darker than the federal Department of Agriculture's visual color standard dark amber or has a color for light transmittance between the range of 60.4%Tc to 44.0%Tc; and may have a flavor that is stronger than that of Grade A Medium Amber, but that is not sharp, bitter, buddy or off-flavor. Grade A Dark Amber must meet the density requirement of Grade A Light Amber. Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] D. "Grade A Extra Dark Amber" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance between the range of 43.9%Tc to 27.0%Tc; and may have a flavor stronger than Grade A Dark Amber. Grade A Extra Dark Amber must meet the density requirements of Grade A Light Amber. Grade A Extra Dark Amber maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] E. "Commercial Grade" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in a sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance less than 27.0%Tc; and may have a strong flavor. Commercial Grade maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. Commercial Grade maple syrup may not be placed in packaged maple syrup containers and may not be sold, offered for sale or exposed for sale as packaged maple syrup. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] F. "Substandard" means bulk maple syrup that fails to meet the requirements of any other grade. Such syrup may not be placed in packaged maple syrup containers and may not be sold, offered for sale or exposed for sale as packaged maple syrup. [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).] [PL 1991, c. 326, §2 (NEW).]

2. (TEXT EFFECTIVE ON CONTINGENCY: See PL 2013, c. 117, §3) Maple syrup grades. The following grades are established as the official maple syrup grade standards for the State. A. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] B. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] C. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] D. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] E. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] F. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (RP); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] G. "Grade A Golden" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance of not less than 75%Tc; has a delicate taste; and has a light to more pronounced golden color. Grade A Golden maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] H. "Grade A Amber" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance of less than 75%Tc but not less than 50%Tc; has a rich or full-bodied taste; and has a light amber color. Grade A Amber maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] I. "Grade A Dark" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance of less than 50%Tc but not less than 25%Tc; has a more robust or stronger taste than maple syrup in lighter color classes; and has a dark color. Grade A Dark maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] J. "Grade A Very Dark" means pure maple syrup that is free of any material other than pure, clear liquid maple syrup in sanitary condition; has a color for light transmittance of less than 25%Tc; has a very strong taste; and has a very dark color. Grade A Very Dark maple syrup must be free of sugar crystals and may not be damaged in any way. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] K. "Processing Grade" means any maple syrup that does not qualify for Grade A labeling, including off-flavored maple syrup. Processing Grade maple syrup may not be sold in retail markets and must be packed in 5-gallon or larger containers. [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).] [PL 2013, c. 117, §2 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 117, §3 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 3154 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 611 / Section 3154
7 §3154. Administration
Status: in_force

1. Authority of commissioner. The commissioner may enter into agreement with the Maine Milk Commission or other state agency for administering the provisions of this chapter, and may employ such staff and services as may be necessary. [PL 1983, c. 573, §4 (NEW).]

2. Deductions. Prior to the redistribution of the pool as provided in section 3153 , the commissioner shall deduct the following: A. Amounts sufficient to cover the costs of administering this chapter. Those amounts must be determined annually and must be adopted by rule by the commissioner; and [PL 1995, c. 693, §19 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 693, §25 (AFF).] B. [PL 1999, c. 161, §7 (RP).] [PL 1999, c. 161, §7 (AMD).]

3. Records and information. The commissioner may receive and utilize such reports and other information from any dealer as furnished to the Maine Milk Commission pursuant to section 2956 for the purpose of administering this chapter. The commissioner may also require any dealer purchasing milk from producers who may be eligible for participation in the milk pool to furnish directly such reports and other information as may be necessary to determine the eligibility of those producers and the extent of their participation. [PL 1983, c. 573, §4 (NEW).]

4. Interest on over-order premiums. Interest earned on over-order premiums paid into the Maine Milk Pool pursuant to section 3153, subsection 2, paragraph C , shall be credited to the pool. At least annually, the commissioner shall pay accrued interest on an equal basis to eligible Maine market and Boston market producers. [PL 1987, c. 447, §9 (NEW).]

In the event that information requested is not adequately provided by any dealer, the commissioner may require producers who may be eligible for participation in the Maine Milk Pool to furnish such reports and other information as may be necessary to determine their eligibility and the extent of their participation. [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. F, §35 (AMD).]

The cost of obtaining information required to determine eligibility and extent of participation shall be shared by all producers as provided in subsection 2 , except that added costs incurred in obtaining information directly from a producer whose dealer does not furnish that information shall be assessed to that producer. [PL 1983, c. 573, §4 (NEW).]

An eligible marketing cooperative, or an organization applying for recognition as an eligible marketing cooperative, shall furnish the commissioner all information, records and reports necessary for the commissioner to determine and monitor the cooperative's initial eligibility and its ongoing compliance with this chapter. In addition to any other available remedies, the commissioner may commence proceedings pursuant to section 3155‑B , to revoke the eligible status of a cooperative that willfully fails to provide information, records or reports requested by the commissioner. [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. F, §36 (AMD).]

The commissioner shall prescribe by rule the form, content and time for filing of any reports which may be required under this section. All reports shall be subject to audit. [PL 1983, c. 573, §4 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2186 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 404 / Section 2186
7 §2186. Term
Status: in_force

A license expires on December 31st or at another time designated by the commissioner and becomes invalid on that date unless renewed. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]

A license may be renewed up to 90 days after the date of expiration upon payment of a late fee of $10 in addition to the renewal fee. Any person who submits an application for renewal more than 90 days after the license renewal date is subject to all requirements governing new applicants under this chapter, except that the department may in its discretion, giving due consideration to the protection of the public, waive examination if the renewal application is made within 2 years from the date of the expiration. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]

Any arborist whose license expires while the arborist is in federal service on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard, is called into service or training or is in training or education under the supervision of the Armed Forces of the United States preliminary to induction into the military service may have the license renewed without paying any intervening renewal license fees within one year after termination of that service, training or education other than by dishonorable discharge if the arborist furnishes the department with an affidavit to the effect that the arborist has been so engaged and that the service, training or education has been so terminated. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 714 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 714
7 §714. Registration
Status: in_force

1. Application for registration. A person may not distribute in this State a commercial feed, except a customer-formula feed, that has not been registered pursuant to this section. The application for registration must be submitted in the manner prescribed by the commissioner on forms furnished by the commissioner. The annual fee is $80 per product name for pet food and the total annual fee for a home-based manufacturer of pet food is $80. The annual fee is $80 per product name for all other commercial feed. Upon approval by the commissioner the registration must be issued to the applicant. All registrations expire on the 31st day of December. The commissioner may issue a registration for a one-year, 2-year or 3-year period. Registrations for a period in excess of one year may only be issued with the agreement of or at the request of the applicant. The fee for a 2-year registration is 2 times the annual fee. The fee for a 3-year registration is 3 times the annual fee. [PL 2007, c. 702, §2 (AMD).]

2. Fees. The commissioner shall deposit 20% of the fees collected pursuant to subsection 1 in the General Fund and 80% of the fees collected in the Animal Welfare Fund established under section 3906‑B . [PL 2021, c. 696, §1 (AMD).]

3. Refusal. The commissioner is empowered to refuse registration of any commercial feed not in compliance with this subchapter and to cancel any registration subsequently found not to be in compliance with any provision of this subchapter. Registration, refusal and cancellation are rulemaking as that term is defined in the Maine Administrative Procedure Act and notice and opportunity for a hearing must be provided prior to refusal or cancellation in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. In any case, no registration may be refused or canceled, unless the registrant has been given an opportunity to amend the application in order to comply with the requirements of this subchapter. [RR 2007, c. 1, §3 (COR).]

4. Surcharge on registration of pet food. For each product name of pet food registered in accordance with subsection 1 , the applicant shall pay a $20 surcharge in addition to the registration fee, except that a home-based manufacturer of pet food shall pay a total annual surcharge of $20. The commissioner shall deposit the surcharge directly into the Companion Animal Sterilization Fund established under section 3910‑B as it is received until the total of the surcharges received for that registration year equals $100,000. The commissioner shall deposit all surcharges received for a registration year in excess of $100,000 up to $157,000 into the Animal Welfare Fund established under section 3906‑B, subsection 2 . The commissioner shall deposit all surcharges received for a registration year in excess of $157,000 into the Companion Animal Sterilization Fund established under section 3910‑B . [PL 2017, c. 263, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 489 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 489
7 §489. Exceptions
Status: in_force

A person may not be prosecuted under chapter 401 , and sections 482 to 488‑A , 490 and 640 to 643 , when that person can establish proof of purchase, and a guaranty signed by the person residing in the United States from whom the purchase was made, to the effect that the article in question is not adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this chapter or chapter 103 . [PL 2005, c. 512, §24 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1094 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 105 / Section 1094
7 §1094. -- liability
Status: in_force

Any dealer or processor who pays any dues to an association pursuant to the assignment of dues governed by this chapter shall not be liable for such sums upon any seed lien, farm laborer's lien or any other lien or encumbrance which has priority by law upon the proceeds of the farm crop or product. Any lienholder who has priority upon the proceeds from such farm crop or product whose lien remains unsatisfied shall have the right to receive all sums paid to any association pursuant to the assignment of dues. Such association shall remit all dues paid pursuant to the assignment to the priority lienholder upon the receipt of notice and proof that a valid prior lien exists against such farm crop or product. [PL 1971, c. 438 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 1
7 §1. Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Status: in_force

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, is established and is maintained for the improvement of agriculture and the advancement of the interests of husbandry. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is referred to in this Title as the "department" and consists of the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, in this Title called the "commissioner," and the following: the Board of Pesticide Control, the Maine Milk Commission, the Maine Potato Board, the Seed Potato Board, the Harness Racing Commission and the Board of Veterinary Medicine. The commissioner is appointed by the Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, and holds office during the pleasure of the Governor. The commissioner is entitled to receive actual expenses incurred in the performance of the commissioner's official duties. The commissioner may employ such clerical labor as may be required, subject to the Civil Service Law, and may expend such sums for postage, telephone, telegraph and other general office expenses as may be necessary in the performance of the commissioner's duties, the same to be paid out of any money appropriated by the Legislature for such purpose. [PL 2009, c. 369, Pt. A, §20 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §§5, 6 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 1805 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1805
7 §1805. Securing animals for treatment
Status: in_force

It is a violation of this chapter for an owner of domestic animals or that owner's agent to refuse or neglect to secure and restrain domestic animals to be tested, vaccinated, branded or tattooed to indicate vaccination or infection status, or otherwise treated as the commissioner may direct. [PL 2001, c. 572, §34 (AMD).]

The commissioner may require proper disinfecting by the owner of stables and premises where condemned diseased domestic animals are found and may withhold indemnity until satisfied that proper cleaning and disinfecting of premises have been completed. [PL 2001, c. 572, §34 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 534 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 534
7 §534. Labels; sales in bulk or open package
Status: in_force

Every closed package or container of apples, which is packed, sold, distributed, transported, offered or exposed for sale, distribution or transportation in the State by any person shall have affixed in a conspicuous place on the outside thereof a plainly printed statement clearly and truly stating the name and address of the owner or shipper of the apples at the time of packing, the name of the variety, the class or grade of the apples contained therein and the minimum size or the numerical count of the apples in the packages, together with the minimum volume of the apples in the container. If the apples were grown in Maine, that fact shall be plainly designated.

All apples sold, offered, exposed or advertised for sale at retail in bulk or in open packages or containers shall be plainly and conspicuously marked and identified as to variety and grade.
7 M.R.S. § 1032 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1032
7 §1032. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this Article, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1981, c. 513, §167 (NEW).]

1. Board. [PL 1987, c. 99, §2 (RP).]

2. Consumer pack. "Consumer pack" means a unit of 50 pounds or less net weight of potatoes contained in a bag or other type of container. Consumer pack shall not mean a master container. [PL 1981, c. 540, §2 (AMD).]

2-A. Identification marks of bag manufacturers and bag distributors. [PL 1987, c. 99, §3 (RP).]

3. Maine bag. "Maine bag" means any consumer pack for potatoes on which appears the word Maine in letters larger than 1/4 inch or a pictorial representation of the outline of the shape of the state. [PL 1981, c. 698, §15 (AMD).]

4. Maine bag grade. "Maine bag grade" means any of the officially established grades of potatoes as adopted by the commissioner. [PL 1987, c. 99, §4 (AMD).]

5. Other than Maine bag. [PL 1987, c. 99, §5 (RP).]
7 M.R.S. § 1333 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202 / Section 1333
7 §1333. Propagation and possession of cervids
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this Title, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Cervid" means a member of the cervidae family and hybrids, including deer, elk, caribou, reindeer and related species, specified by the commissioner by rule with the written concurrence of the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. D, §1 (AMD).] B. "Discrepancy" means an instance in which a holder of a license under subsection 2 has failed to comply with a requirement under this Part. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. D, §1 (AMD).]

2. License. The commissioner may issue a license for the propagation, possession, purchase or sale of cervids. A holder of a license issued pursuant to this subsection may raise cervids at any season of the year. The fee for a license is $20 a year. Except as provided in section 1346 , a license fee must be deposited in the Animal Industry Fund established in section 1332 . [PL 2003, c. 386, §6 (NEW).]

3. Inspection. The commissioner or commissioner's designee shall conduct an inspection of an applicant's premises before the initial issuance or renewal of a license under subsection 2 or at any time during the pendency of a license under subsection 2 if the department believes the license holder is not in compliance with the provisions of this Part. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

4. Renewal. If an inspection for a renewal of a license under subsection 2 reveals a discrepancy, the inspector shall note the discrepancy on an inspection form. The commissioner may issue a temporary license under subsection 2 and give the license holder a reasonable amount of time to correct the discrepancy. Upon a subsequent inspection of the premises of a temporary license holder under this subsection, the commissioner shall renew the license under subsection 2 if the license holder has corrected all of the discrepancies noted on the inspection form from the prior inspection. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

5. Penalties. Any person engaged in the business of propagating, possessing, buying or selling cervids without a license under subsection 2 commits a civil violation for which a fine not to exceed $100 per day for each violation may be adjudged, except that the total of the fines may not exceed $25,000. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

6. Records. A holder of a license issued pursuant to subsection 2 shall maintain records that include the date and location of birth and the date of death or departure of each cervid in the license holder's herd. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

7. Revocation. A license issued under this chapter may be suspended or revoked in a manner consistent with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 5 for a violation of this chapter. Upon revocation, a similar license may not be reissued to that person for a minimum of 5 years. [PL 2003, c. 386, §6 (NEW).]

8. Rules. The commissioner, in consultation with the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, may adopt rules necessary for the administration of this chapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 386, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1023 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1023
7 §1023. Brokers and agents
Status: in_force

1. Brokerage fee. The brokerage fee, if any, shall be an agreed upon percentage of the gross proceeds from the sale, exclusive of the costs of transportation, and shall be charged the seller only upon receipt of payment in full of said gross proceeds from the buyer. [PL 1971, c. 366 (NEW).]

2. Duties of brokers. In addition to all the duties of the broker otherwise imposed by law or by agreement, the broker has the following duties. A. The broker shall invoice the buyer, shall collect and remit to the seller and any secured party noted on the record of the transaction any and all sums due on account of the sale, and shall render an itemized accounting to the seller promptly upon receipt of payment, showing the true gross selling price, all brokerage fees deducted, and any other charges or expenses incurred in connection with the sale of the potatoes or rotation crops. Agreement to collect from the buyer and remit to the seller is not a guarantee by the broker that the buyer will pay for the potatoes or rotation crops purchased, unless there is a specific agreement by the broker that the broker will pay if the buyer does not pay. [PL 1997, c. 606, §15 (AMD).] B. The broker shall, to the best of the broker's ability, make all necessary arrangements to effect the transportation of said shipment to the buyer, but the broker, in the absence of a specific agreement, does not guarantee the carrier payment of carrier charges. [PL 1997, c. 606, §15 (AMD).] C. The broker shall prepare, file and fully process with the carrier any and all claims for the seller of the potatoes or rotation crops, including taking all necessary action to bring the matter to a conclusion. [PL 1997, c. 606, §15 (AMD).] [PL 1997, c. 606, §15 (AMD).]

3. Agents contracts. A person required to be licensed by this Article may not act as an agent for any grower without first having an agreement with the grower reduced to a written contract clearly defining the duties and responsibilities of both parties, the extent of the agent's authority in distributing the potatoes or rotation crops, and the agent's fee or selling charge, if any. [PL 1997, c. 606, §16 (AMD).]

4. Agent's fees. The agent's fee or selling charge shall be charged the seller only upon receipt from the buyer of payment in full of the gross proceeds from the sale. [PL 1971, c. 600, §9 (NEW).]

5. Duties of agents. In addition to all the duties of the agent of any grower otherwise imposed by law, rule or regulation, or by agreement, the agent has the same duties as are imposed upon the broker by subsection 2, paragraphs A , B and C . [PL 1997, c. 606, §16 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2803 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 527 / Section 2803
7 §2803. Employment restrictions
Status: in_force

The State Apiarist may not own more than 50 colonies of honeybees. Any part-time bee inspector may not own more than 100 colonies of honeybees. [PL 1985, c. 572 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 562-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 562-B
7 §562-B. Identification of source of water sold in containers and intended for human consumption
Status: in_force

The label on water that is sold in the State in containers and that is intended for human consumption must include words that, without the use of abbreviations or acronyms, identify the name and geographic location of the water body, well or public water supply from which the water was obtained. [PL 2003, c. 5, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4015 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4015
7 §4015. Proper shelter, protection from the weather and humanely clean conditions
Status: in_force

No person owning or responsible for confining or impounding any animal may fail to provide the animal with proper shelter, protection from the weather and humanely clean conditions as prescribed in this section. [PL 1997, c. 456, §7 (AMD).]

1. Indoor standards. Minimum indoor standards of shelter shall be as follows. A. The ambient temperature shall be compatible with the health of the animal. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] B. Indoor housing facilities shall be adequately ventilated by natural or mechanical means to provide for the health of the animal at all times. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]

2. Outdoor standards. Minimum outdoor standards of shelter are as follows. A. When sunlight is likely to cause heat exhaustion of an animal tied or caged outside, sufficient shade by natural or artificial means must be provided to protect the animal from direct sunlight. As used in this paragraph, "caged" does not include farm fencing used to confine livestock. [PL 2007, c. 439, §27 (AMD).] B. Except as provided in subsections 5 , 5‑A and 6 , shelter from inclement weather must be as follows. (1) An artificial shelter, with a minimum of 3 sides and a waterproof roof, appropriate to the local climatic conditions and for the species and breed of the animal must be provided as necessary for the health of the animal. (2) If a dog is tied or confined unattended outdoors under weather conditions that adversely affect the health of the dog, a shelter must be provided in accordance with subsection 6, paragraph A to accommodate the dog and protect it from the weather and, in particular, from severe cold. Inadequate shelter may be indicated by the shivering of the dog due to cold weather for a continuous period of 10 minutes or by symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia. A metal barrel is not adequate shelter for a dog. [PL 2011, c. 76, §1 (AMD).] C. [PL 2007, c. 702, §16 (RP).] [PL 2011, c. 76, §1 (AMD).]

3. Space standards. Minimum space requirements for both indoor and outdoor enclosures shall include the following. A. The housing facilities shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to contain the animal. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] B. Enclosures shall be constructed and maintained to provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of overcrowding, debility, stress or abnormal behavior patterns. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]

4. Humanely clean conditions. Minimum standards of sanitation necessary to provide humanely clean conditions for both indoor and outdoor enclosures shall include periodic cleanings to remove excretions and other waste materials, dirt and trash to minimize health hazards. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]

5. Livestock. Livestock must be provided with shelter suitable for the health of the animal. Except as provided in subsection 5‑A , livestock must have access to a constructed or natural shelter that is large enough to accommodate all livestock comfortably at one time. The shelter should be well drained and protect the livestock from direct sun, rain, wind and other inclement weather. Notwithstanding this subsection, shelter for equines must be provided in accordance with subsection 2, paragraph B , subparagraph (1). For purposes of this subsection, "livestock" includes large game as defined in section 1341, subsection 5 kept at a licensed commercial large game shooting area as defined in section 1341, subsection 1 . [PL 2011, c. 76, §2 (AMD).]

5-A. Livestock maintained under a rotational grazing system. Notwithstanding subsection 5 , a person is not required to provide shelter for livestock while the animals are maintained under a rotational grazing system as long as the animals do not have injuries or infirmities that prevent them from accessing food and water and are in good body condition. For the purposes of this subsection, "rotational grazing system" means the practice of dividing up available pasture into multiple smaller areas during grazing season when pasture is available to meet the dietary requirements of the animals and subsequently moving the animals from one area to another after a number of days or weeks as determined by forage production and quality. [PL 2011, c. 76, §3 (NEW).]

6. Dogs confined by tethering for long time periods. In addition to the requirements of subsection 2, paragraph B, subparagraph (2) , when tethering is the primary means of confinement for a dog, the standards for shelter and tethering are as follows: A. A shelter must be provided that is fully enclosed except for a portal. The portal must be of a sufficient size to allow the dog unimpeded passage into and out of the structure. For dogs other than arctic breeds, the portal must be constructed with a baffle or other means of keeping wind and precipitation out of the interior. The shelter must be constructed of materials with a thermal resistance factor of 0.9 or greater and must contain clean bedding material sufficient to retain the dog's normal body heat; and [PL 2007, c. 439, §28 (AMD).] B. The chain or tether must be attached to both the dog and the anchor using swivels or similar devices that prevent the chain or tether from becoming entangled or twisted. The chain or tether must be attached to a well-fitted collar or harness on the dog. For dogs other than dogs kept as sled dogs or dogs used in competition, the chain or tether must be at least 5 times the length of the dog measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail. For dogs kept as sled dogs or dogs used in competition, the chain or tether must be: (1) At least 2.5 times the length of the dog measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail if the anchor is stationary; or (2) At least 1.5 times the length of the dog measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail if the anchor is a pivot point allowing a 360° area of movement. [PL 2009, c. 343, §23 (AMD).] For the purposes of this subsection, "primary means of confinement" means the method used to confine a dog for periods of time that exceed 12 hours in a 24-hour period. For the purposes of this subsection, "arctic breeds" means Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes and other dogs with a double-layered coat and bred to live in an arctic climate and "dogs kept as sled dogs or dogs used in competition" means dogs regularly and consistently used in training or participation in competitive or recreational sled dog activities or other competition canine events. [PL 2009, c. 343, §23 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 155 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 155
7 §155. Application; municipal ordinances
Status: in_force

This chapter does not affect the application of state and federal laws. A municipality must provide the commissioner with a copy of any proposed ordinance that affects farm operations or agricultural composting operations. The clerk of the municipality or a municipal official designated by the clerk shall submit a copy of the proposed ordinance to the commissioner at least 90 days prior to the meeting of the legislative body or public hearing at which adoption of the ordinance will be considered. The commissioner shall review the proposed ordinance and advise the municipality as to whether the proposed ordinance restricts or prohibits the use of best management practices. This section does not affect municipal authority to enact ordinances. [PL 2015, c. 145, §3 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1820-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1820-A
7 §1820-A. Equine infectious anemia
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Official test" means any test approved by the commissioner for the detection of equine infectious anemia. "Official test" includes, but is not limited to, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or ELISA test, and the agar gel immunodiffusion, AGID, or Coggins test. [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] B. "Quarantine" means to confine an equine to a stable or pasture in a manner that will prevent the spread of equine infectious anemia. [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).]

2. Duties of commissioner. The commissioner shall: A. Require a negative Coggins test, taken within 36 months, on all equines raced on, exhibited at or stabled at racetracks or fairgrounds. The commissioner shall require a negative test from all equines entering this State within 12 months before the date of entry and may require any equines to be tested prior to entering the State. Any equine not tested or required by the commissioner to be tested prior to entering this State must be quarantined until tested at the owner's expense; [PL 2003, c. 386, §16 (AMD).] B. Require that any equine having a positive test be immediately quarantined and isolated from other equines pending a 2nd test done by a state veterinarian; and [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] C. Require that all other equines on the premises where an equine has tested positive remain on the premises pending an investigation and testing as the commissioner determines necessary. [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] [PL 2003, c. 386, §16 (AMD).]

3. Disposition of reactors. Any equine that has a positive 2nd test pursuant to subsection 2 must be considered a reactor. A reactor must be: A. Humanely euthanized within 7 days of the 2nd test. Euthanasia must be performed by a licensed veterinarian or as the commissioner directs. A veterinarian euthanizing a reactor shall report the euthanasia to the commissioner within 2 working days; [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] B. Freeze branded with a brand with an "11 EIA" no less than 4 inches in height on the left side of the neck and shipped directly to a United States Department of Agriculture slaughter facility under a federal order; or [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] C. Freeze branded with a brand with an "11 EIA" no less than 4 inches in height on the left side of the neck and permanently quarantined and isolated from all other equines. The reactor must be kept a minimum of 1/4 mile from the nearest paddock, pasture or barn having an equine species or may be kept within 1/4 mile if the reactor is immediately placed and kept at all times in a screened-in enclosure acceptable to the commissioner. [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 572, §49 (NEW).]

4. Surcharge. A person submitting a sample to the department for an official test for equine infectious anemia shall pay a surcharge of $4 for each sample tested by the department. The commissioner shall collect the surcharge and deposit all money received under this subsection into the animal welfare auxiliary fund established under section 3906‑B, subsection 16 . All revenue collected pursuant to this subsection must be used for investigating alleged cases of mistreatment or abuse of equines and enhancing enforcement of this Part and Title 17, chapter 42 as these laws pertain to equines and for costs associated with department laboratory services needed to control or eradicate diseases affecting equines. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. T, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4208 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4208
7 §4208. Nutrient Management Fund
Status: in_force

There is established the nonlapsing Nutrient Management Fund. The commissioner may accept funds from any source designated to be placed in the fund. The commissioner may authorize expenses from the fund as necessary to carry out the purposes of this Part. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 16 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 16
7 §16. Penalties
Status: in_force

Unless a specific penalty has otherwise been provided, a person, firm, partnership or corporation that violates a provision of this Title or a rule adopted pursuant to this Title commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §2 (RPR); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 352 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1-B / Chapter 13 / Section 352
7 §352. Maine Agricultural Water Management Board
Status: in_force

The Maine Agricultural Water Management Board is established in Title 5, section 12004‑G, subsection 3‑D and referred to in this section and section 353 as "the board." [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

1. Membership. All members of the board must be residents of this State. The board consists of 9 members as follows: A. Five members appointed by the commissioner, consisting of: (1) A potato producer; (2) A wild blueberry producer; (3) A small fruit or vegetable grower; (4) A producer of ornamental crops; and (5) A livestock producer; [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] B. Three members appointed by the Governor, consisting of: (1) A person with expertise in federal wetlands permitting; (2) A person with expertise in agricultural engineering and water use efficiency; and (3) A member of the general public; and [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] C. The Commissioner of Environmental Protection or the commissioner's designee. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

2. Duties. The board, working in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Protection, shall: A. Oversee and coordinate the environmentally sound and affordable development of water sources for agricultural use; [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] B. Make recommendations for improvements to federal and state permitting processes for the development of farm ponds and other water sources for agricultural use; [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] C. Work to secure funding for the construction of environmentally sound, efficient and affordable water sources for agricultural use; [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] D. Use data generated by water withdrawal reports under Title 38, section 470‑D and other available information to prioritize watersheds needing alternative water sources for agricultural use and the allocation of funding; and [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] E. Facilitate the implementation of the sustainable agricultural water source program under section 353 . [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

3. Agricultural water use management plans. In addition to its duties under subsection 2 , the board shall develop a model for agricultural water use management plans including a list of issues to be addressed in each plan. The board shall assist agricultural users in the development of water management plans. For the purposes of this section and section 353 , "agricultural water use management plan" means a written document that states the source of water and outlines how water is managed, including a method of storage, if needed, and how water is used on the farm for which the plan is written. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

4. Terms of membership; chair. Except for initial appointees under subsection 1 , each member appointed serves for a term of 3 years. In the case of a vacancy, the Governor shall appoint a member to fill the unexpired term. The Governor and commissioner shall determine initial appointment terms to stagger term expirations. The board shall annually elect one of its members as chair. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

5. Compensation. Members of the board are entitled to expenses only. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

6. Staff. The department shall provide staff to the board. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]

7. Meetings. The board shall meet as needed to perform its duties. [PL 2005, c. 559, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1306 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 201 / Section 1306
7 §1306. Revocation and suspension of licenses
Status: in_force

Any license issued under this chapter may be suspended or revoked by the commissioner in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [PL 2001, c. 572, §7 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 285 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-F / Section 285
7 §285. Departmental authority; livestock and poultry
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision in this chapter to the contrary, the department shall implement and enforce all provisions of Title 22, chapter 562‑A and the rules adopted thereunder that are necessary to ensure that the requirements of the State's meat and poultry products inspection, registration and licensing program are at least equal to the applicable requirements specified under applicable federal acts, as defined by the United States Department of Agriculture or other federal agencies, without exception. [PL 2021, c. 64, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2964 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 603 / Section 2964
7 §2964. Donations of fresh milk to food banks
Status: in_force

The minimum price provisions of this chapter do not apply to donations of fresh milk produced and processed within the State by a dealer or producer-dealer to an incorporated nonprofit organization within the State established for the purpose of reducing hunger and increasing food security. Donations under this section may occur only if the fresh milk produced and processed within the State to be donated does not have a wholesale or retail market that will provide a higher monetary value to the dealer or producer-dealer. [PL 2019, c. 357, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1044 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1044
7 §1044. Prohibitions
Status: in_force

1. Test for germination; labels; ads; noxious weeds. It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, offer for sale or expose for sale any agricultural, vegetable or tree and shrub seeds within this State: A. Unless the test to determine the percentage of germination required by section 1043 has been completed within a 9-month period, exclusive of the calendar month in which the test was completed, immediately prior to sale, exposure for sale or offering for sale or transportation except that, with regard to cool-weather lawn and turf seed, that test must have been completed within a 15-month period pursuant to this paragraph. As used in this paragraph, "cool-weather lawn and turf seed" includes Kentucky bluegrass, red fescue, Chewing's fescue, hard fescue, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, intermediate ryegrass, annual ryegrass, colonial bentgrass and creeping bentgrass; [PL 2017, c. 57, §1 (AMD).] B. Not labeled in accordance with this subchapter, or having a false or misleading label; C. Pertaining to which there has been a false or misleading advertisement; D. Containing primary noxious-weed seeds not in accordance with tolerances and methods of determination prescribed in the rules and regulations promulgated by the commissioner; E. If noxious-weed seeds are present singularly or collectively in excess of 500 per pound. [PL 2017, c. 57, §1 (AMD).]

2. Misuse of labels; false ads; obstructions; stop-sales. It shall be unlawful for any person within this State: A. To detach, alter, deface or destroy any label provided for in this subchapter, or the rules and regulations promulgated by the commissioner thereunder, or to alter or substitute seed in any manner that may defeat the purposes of said subchapter; B. To disseminate any false or misleading advertisement concerning agricultural, vegetable or tree and shrub seeds in any manner or by any means; [PL 1969, c. 42, §6 (AMD).] C. To hinder or obstruct in any way any authorized person in the performance of his duties under this subchapter; D. To fail to comply with a "stop-sale" order. [PL 1969, c. 42, §6 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3911-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 719 / Section 3911-A
7 §3911-A. Abandonment of wolf hybrid
Status: in_force

A person who abandons a wolf hybrid licensed under section 3922 commits a civil violation for which a fine not to exceed $1,000 may be adjudged. A person who abandons a wolf hybrid not licensed under section 3922 commits a civil violation for which a fine of $1,000 must be adjudged. For the purposes of this section "abandon" means to desert. For enforcement purposes a wolf hybrid is abandoned if the animal is found a distance of more than 5 miles from the premises of the owner and is not under the control of any person. [PL 2015, c. 301, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3932-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 723 / Section 3932-B
7 §3932-B. Kennel license
Status: in_force

1. License necessary. A person maintaining a kennel, as defined in section 3907, subsection 17 , shall annually obtain a kennel license from the department, and that person is subject to rules adopted by the department. Individuals or entities obtaining facility licenses under sections 3931‑A , 3932 , 3932‑A and 3933 are not required to obtain a kennel license. A kennel license expires December 31st annually. [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]

2. Application. An individual who is required to obtain a kennel license shall submit an application with the department for such a license by January 31st annually or within 30 days of first being required to obtain a kennel license pursuant to subsection 1 . In order for the State to issue a kennel license, the applicant must provide to the department a complete application, a signed inspection from an animal control officer appointed by the municipality where a kennel is located, or a humane agent if there is no animal control officer appointed by the municipality where a kennel is located, that confirms a passed inspection in compliance with subsection 5 and current rabies vaccination certificates for all animals as required by section 3916 . The initial inspection must be made not more than 30 days before filing the first application for a license. Inspections to renew a kennel license must be performed annually. A humane agent may conduct an inspection of a kennel in a municipality with an animal control officer under specific and extenuating circumstances as determined by the department by rule. If the municipality does not have an animal control officer, the humane agent may conduct an inspection of a kennel by request as determined by the department by rule. If a humane agent conducts an inspection pursuant to this subsection, the municipality shall pay for the cost of the inspection. [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]

3. License fees. A kennel owner shall pay a fee to the department for each kennel license. The kennel license fee is $50 for 5 to 10 dogs, $100 for 11 to 20 dogs and $150 for 21 or more dogs. The department shall forward 20% of the collected fee to the animal welfare account established pursuant to section 3945 for the municipality in which the kennel is located and deposit the remainder into the Animal Welfare Fund established pursuant to section 3906‑B, subsection 2 . [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]

4. Form of license. If a kennel license is issued in hard copy, it must be issued in triplicate, with the original copy given to the applicant, one copy given to the municipality where the applicant is located and one copy kept on file by the department. The license may be issued electronically to all parties. [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]

5. Annual inspection. An animal control officer appointed by the municipality where a kennel is located, or a humane agent if there is no animal control officer appointed by the municipality where a kennel is located, shall annually inspect the premises of the kennel prior to the State's issuing or renewing a kennel license according to rules established by the department. A humane agent may conduct an inspection of a kennel in a municipality with an appointed animal control officer under specific and extenuating circumstances as determined by the department by rule. If a humane agent conducts an inspection pursuant to this subsection, the municipality shall pay for the cost of the inspection. [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]

6. License tags. Dogs covered by a kennel license must be furnished suitable individual dog license tags indicating the year that the license is issued. License tags furnished pursuant to this subsection must be attached to the collars of the dogs covered by the kennel license in the manner prescribed under section 3923‑B, subsection 1 and subject to the exceptions prescribed under section 3923‑B, subsection 3 . [PL 2025, c. 414, §11 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2801 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 527 / Section 2801
7 §2801. Inspection duties
Status: in_force

The State Apiarist and part-time bee inspectors employed by the commissioner shall make such inspections of the apiaries or hive locations throughout the State as the commissioner deems necessary to determine the presence of regulated honeybee diseases or parasites of an infectious or contagious nature. [PL 1985, c. 572 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1806-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1806-A
7 §1806-A. Restrictions of sales
Status: in_force

The commissioner may restrict the sale of milk or milk products in the State from any herd of any species having any reportable disease or exposed to a reportable pathogen that may be transmitted in milk or milk products. A livestock product or byproduct may not be sold or offered for sale from any herd having a reportable disease or exposed to a reportable pathogen that may be transmitted in those products. [PL 2001, c. 572, §35 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2212 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2212
7 §2212. Appointment of State Horticulturist
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall appoint the State Horticulturist within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to carry out the provisions of this chapter. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 59 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 59
7 §59. Other laws not affected
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter may affect the legal rights, remedies or liabilities of persons arising out of negligence or other wrongful acts or omissions involving the use of pesticides or other agricultural chemicals. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3916-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 720 / Section 3916-A
7 §3916-A. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2025, c. 141, §5 (NEW).]

1. Direct supervision. "Direct supervision" has the same meaning as in Title 32, section 4853, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2025, c. 141, §5 (NEW).]

2. Indirect supervision. "Indirect supervision" has the same meaning as in Title 32, section 4853, subsection 4‑B . [PL 2025, c. 141, §5 (NEW).]

3. Licensed veterinarian. "Licensed veterinarian" has the same meaning as in Title 32, section 4853, subsection 5 . [PL 2025, c. 141, §5 (NEW).]

4. Licensed veterinary technician. "Licensed veterinary technician" has the same meaning as in Title 32, section 4853, subsection 11 . [PL 2025, c. 141, §5 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 92 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 4 / Section 92
7 §92. Constables
Status: in_force

The officers of an agricultural society may appoint persons to act as constables at a licensed fair sponsored by that society for the preservation of the public peace and the enforcement of the regulations of the society. An appointment made under this section is valid only within the town where the fair is held and only for the period from noon of the day preceding the commencement of the fair until noon of the day after the termination of the fair. A constable appointed under this section has the powers and duties of a constable under Title 30‑A, section 2673 . [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 609 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 609
7 §609. Refusal to register; cancellation; suspension; legal recourse
Status: in_force

1. Procedure. The following provisions govern the board when refusing to register a pesticide, refusing to renew a pesticide registration, canceling a pesticide registration or suspending a pesticide registration. A. If it does not appear to the board that a pesticide warrants the proposed claims for it or if the pesticide and its labeling and other material required to be submitted do not comply with the provisions of this subchapter or rules adopted under this subchapter, the board shall notify the applicant of the manner in which the pesticide, labeling or other material required to be submitted fails to comply with the provisions of this subchapter so as to afford the applicant an opportunity to make the necessary corrections. [RR 2005, c. 2, §7 (COR).] B. When the board determines that a pesticide or its labeling does not comply with the provisions of this subchapter or rules adopted under this subchapter, the board may cancel or refuse to renew the registration of a pesticide or change its classification, after notice and opportunity for hearing has been provided in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (AMD).] C. When the board determines that there is an imminent hazard, it may, on its own motion, suspend the registration of a pesticide in accordance with Title 5, section 10004 . [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (AMD).] D. When the board becomes cognizant of any possible hazard or violation involving a registered product, it shall cause notice of the possible hazard or violation to be delivered by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the registrant and may cancel or refuse to renew the registration of the pesticide or change its classification after notice and opportunity for hearing has been provided in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (AMD).] E. [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (RP).] [RR 2005, c. 2, §7 (COR).]

2. Federally registered pesticides. If the board determines that any federally registered pesticide, with respect to the use of such pesticide within this State, does not warrant the claims for it, or might cause unreasonable adverse effects on the environment, the board may refuse to register the pesticide as required in section 607 or, if the pesticide is registered under section 607 , may cancel or suspend the registration in accordance with subsection 1 . If the board believes the pesticide does not comply with the provisions of FIFRA or the regulations adopted by EPA pursuant to FIFRA, it shall advise EPA of the manner in which the pesticide, labeling or other material required to be submitted fails to comply with the provisions of FIFRA and suggest necessary corrections. [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (AMD).]

3. Person adversely affected by board action. Any person adversely affected by a final action of the board under this section may obtain judicial review thereof by filing in the District Court, within 60 days after the entry of that final action, a petition praying that the action be set aside in whole or in part. A copy of the petition must be forthwith transmitted by the clerk of the court to the board and upon receipt the board shall file in the court the record of the proceedings on which it based its final action. The court has jurisdiction to affirm or set aside the final action complained of in whole or in part. The findings of the board with respect to questions of fact must be sustained if supported by substantial evidence when considered on the record as a whole. Upon application, the court may remand the matter to the board to take further testimony if there are reasonable grounds for the failure to adduce the evidence in the prior hearing. The board may modify its findings and final action by reason of the additional evidence and shall file the additional record and any modification of the findings or final action with the clerk of the court. [PL 2005, c. 620, §9 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 13 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 13
7 §13. Enforcement
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall diligently enforce all provisions of this Title and all other statutes delegating responsibility to the commissioner or the department and is entitled to and must receive the assistance of the Attorney General and of the several county attorneys. The commissioner may recover the penalties imposed for violations of this Title and Title 32, chapter 27 in a civil action brought in the commissioner's own name, the venue to be as in other civil actions, and if the commissioner prevails in any such action, recovers full costs, or the commissioner may prosecute for violations hereof by complaint or indictment, and such prosecution must be commenced in the county in which the offense was committed. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §57 (COR).]

For the purposes of chapter 103, subchapter 10 , notwithstanding the provisions of the District Court Civil Rules, Rule 80E, paragraph (b), the commissioner may obtain an administrative inspection warrant upon demonstrating the statutory or other authority pursuant to which the commissioner is authorized to conduct inspections, the premises to be inspected, the purpose of the inspection and that the inspection sought is reasonable and represents a minimal intrusion in furtherance of a legitimate governmental obligation of the department. This demonstration is deemed to be a demonstration of probable cause. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §57 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 749 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 749
7 §749. Enforcement
Status: in_force

This subchapter shall be administered by the commissioner. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §55 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 35 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2 / Section 35
7 §35. Regulations
Status: in_force

The commissioner may prescribe regulations in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 , for carrying out the purposes of this chapter. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1047 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1047
7 §1047. Powers
Status: in_force

For the purpose of carrying out this subchapter, the commissioner or the commissioner's duly authorized agents have authority: [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §123 (COR).]

1. Stop-sale orders. To issue and enforce a written or printed "stop-sale" order to the owner or custodian of any lot of agricultural, vegetable or tree and shrub seeds which the commissioner finds is in violation of any of the provisions of this subchapter, which order shall prohibit further sale of such seed until such officer has evidence that the law has been complied with. The issuance of such an order shall not be considered licensing or an adjudicatory proceeding, as defined by the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. No "stop-sale" order shall be issued or attached to any lot of seed without first giving the owner or custodian of such seed an opportunity to comply with the law. The owner or custodian of seeds which have been denied sale by a "stop-sale" order shall have the right to appeal from such order to a court of competent jurisdiction in the locality in which the seeds are found, praying for a judgment as to the justification of said order and for the discharge of such seed from the order. This subsection shall not be construed as limiting the right of the enforcement officer to proceed as authorized by other provisions of this subchapter. [PL 1977, c. 694, §114 (AMD).]

2. Employ qualified persons. To employ qualified persons under the Civil Service Law and to incur such expenses as may be necessary to carry out this subchapter; and [PL 1985, c. 785, Pt. B, §44 (AMD).]

3. Cooperate with Federal Government. To cooperate with the Federal Government in seed law enforcement.
7 M.R.S. § 89 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 4 / Section 89
7 §89. Licensees holding pari-mutuel racing meets
Status: in_force

In addition to other requirements provided in this chapter, a licensee that holds pari-mutuel racing meets must put on an agricultural fair during one racing meet each year to be eligible to receive a stipend. Exhibits must be kept in an attractive display for a minimum of 3 consecutive days during the meet. The total premium payments for these exhibits must be an amount equal to or greater than the premiums paid for pulling contests at the fair and race meet, and not less than 25% of the premiums paid for harness horse races conducted during the annual fair. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]

The conducting of pari-mutuel betting by an entity licensed by the State Harness Racing Commission in accordance with Title 8, chapter 11 is not cause for withholding that entity's stipend. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 743-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 743-B
7 §743-B. Exemption for biosolids
Status: in_force

Sections 743 and 743‑A do not apply to packaged biosolids or unpackaged biosolids that are derived primarily from residuals regulated by Title 38, chapter 13 and by rules adopted by the Department of Environmental Protection governing solid waste management matters concerning composting facilities and the agronomic utilization of residuals when those biosolids include a legible and conspicuous disclaimer on their marketing materials and labeling specifically stating: "This product is not a commercial fertilizer, and any nutrient claims are not a guaranteed analysis." If a fertilizer material percentage statement appears on a label or accompanying delivery documentation, except for those products for which delivery documentation is required by Department of Environmental Protection rule, that product must be registered as a fertilizer. [PL 2013, c. 204, §5 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1701 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 301 / Section 1701
7 §1701. Animal husbandry expert
Status: in_force

The commissioner is authorized to employ an animal husbandry expert. The commissioner may employ such assistants as the commissioner considers necessary, subject to the Civil Service Law. Such expenses in connection therewith must be paid as the commissioner may approve. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §124 (COR).]
7-A M.R.S. § 201 — ME Code / Title 7-A / Subtitle 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 201
7-A §201. Department
Status: in_force

1. Establishment. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is established as a cabinet-level department. [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. V, §1 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §17 (AFF).]

2. Divisions. The department consists of the divisions necessary to carry out the work of the department. [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. V, §1 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §17 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 151 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 151
7 §151. Short title
Status: in_force

This Act may be known and cited as "the Maine Agriculture Protection Act." [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 5 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 5
7 §5. Deputies
Status: in_force

The commissioner may appoint and fix the compensation of those deputies that in the commissioner's judgment are required to assist and enable the commissioner to carry out all laws, the execution of which is entrusted to the commissioner. These deputies hold office during the pleasure of the commissioner. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. NN, §3 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1342-C — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1342-C
7 §1342-C. Change of location of licensed commercial large game shooting area
Status: in_force

A person holding a license for a commercial large game shooting area under section 1342 or 1342‑A may apply to the commissioner for permission to change the location of the licensed area. The commissioner shall approve the change in location if the applicant demonstrates that the old location of the commercial large game shooting area will be discontinued and that the new location meets all of the applicable requirements of the section of law under which the original license was approved. [PL 2011, c. 557, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 606 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 606
7 §606. Prohibited acts
Status: in_force

1. Unlawful distribution. A person may not distribute in the State any of the following: A. A pesticide that has not been registered pursuant to the provisions of this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] B. A pesticide if any of the claims made for it or any of the directions for its use or other labeling differs from the representations made in connection with its registration, or if the composition of a pesticide differs from its composition as represented in connection with its registration; a change in the labeling or formulation of a pesticide may be made within a registration period without requiring reregistration of the product if the registration is amended to reflect that change and if that change will not violate any provision of FIFRA or this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] C. A pesticide unless it is in the registrant's or the manufacturer's unbroken immediate container and there is affixed to the container, and to the outside container or wrapper of the retail package, if there is one, through which the required information on the immediate container cannot be clearly read, a label bearing the information required in this subchapter and rules adopted under this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] D. A pesticide that has not been colored or discolored pursuant to section 610, subsection 1, paragraph D ; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] E. A pesticide that is adulterated or misbranded or any device that is misbranded; [PL 2021, c. 105, §1 (AMD).] F. A pesticide in containers that are unsafe due to damage; [PL 2021, c. 673, §4 (AMD).] G. Beginning January 1, 2022, a pesticide containing chlorpyrifos as an active ingredient; [PL 2021, c. 673, §4 (AMD).] H. A pesticide that has been contaminated by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; or [PL 2021, c. 673, §4 (NEW).] I. Beginning January 1, 2030, a pesticide that contains intentionally added PFAS that may not be sold or distributed pursuant to Title 38, section 1614, subsection 5, paragraph D . [PL 2021, c. 673, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 673, §4 (AMD).]

2. Unlawful alteration, misuse, divulging of formulas, transportation, disposal and noncompliance. A person may not: A. Detach, alter, deface or destroy, wholly or in part, any label or labeling provided for in this subchapter or rules adopted under this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] A-1. Add any substance to or take any substance from a pesticide in a manner that may defeat the purpose of this subchapter or rules adopted under this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (NEW).] B. Use or cause to be used any pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling or with rules of the board, if those rules further restrict the uses provided on the labeling; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] C. Use for that person's own advantage or reveal, other than to the board or proper officials or employees of the state or federal executive agencies, to the courts of this State or of the United States in response to a subpoena, to physicians, or in emergencies to pharmacists and other qualified persons for use in the preparation of antidotes, any information relative to formulas of products acquired by authority of section 607 or any information judged by the board to contain or relate to trade secrets or commercial or financial information obtained by authority of this subchapter and marked as privileged or confidential by the registrant; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] D. Handle, transport, store, display or distribute pesticides in such a manner as to endanger human beings or their environment or to endanger food, feed or any other products that may be transported, stored, displayed or distributed with such pesticides; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] E. Dispose of, discard or store any pesticides or pesticide containers in such a manner as may cause injury to humans, vegetation, crops, livestock, wildlife or beneficial insects or pollute any water supply or waterway; [PL 2005, c. 620, §5 (AMD).] F. Refuse or otherwise fail to comply with the provisions of this subchapter, the rules adopted under this subchapter or any lawful order of the board; [PL 2021, c. 673, §5 (AMD).] G. Apply pesticides in a manner inconsistent with rules for pesticide application adopted by the board; or [PL 2021, c. 673, §5 (AMD).] H. Use or cause to be used any pesticide container inconsistent with rules for pesticide containers adopted by the board. [PL 2021, c. 673, §5 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 673, §5 (AMD).]

3. Unlawful use. A person may not apply glyphosate or dicamba within 75 feet of school grounds. This subsection does not apply to residential property or land used for commercial farming. For purposes of this subsection, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings: A. "Commercial farming" has the same meaning as in section 52, subsection 3 ; [PL 2021, c. 197, §1 (NEW).] B. "Residential property" means real property located in this State that is used for residential dwelling purposes; [PL 2021, c. 197, §1 (NEW).] C. "School" means any public, private or tribally funded elementary school as defined in Title 20‑A, section 1, subsection 10 , secondary school as defined in Title 20‑A, section 1, subsection 32 or a nursery school that is part of an elementary or secondary school; and [PL 2021, c. 197, §1 (NEW).] D. "School grounds" means: (1) Land associated with a school building including playgrounds and athletic fields used by students or staff of a school. "School grounds" does not include land used for a school farm; and (2) Any other outdoor area used by students or staff including property owned by a municipality or a private entity that is regularly used for school activities by students and staff but not including land used primarily for nonschool activities, such as golf courses, farms and museums. [PL 2021, c. 197, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 197, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2108 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 401 / Section 2108
7 §2108. Annual General Fund transfer
Status: in_force

On or before July 31st of each fiscal year, the State Controller shall transfer $120,000 from General Fund undedicated revenue to the Certified Seed Fund established in section 2107 . [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. HHH, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2301 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 409 / Section 2301
7 §2301. Authority
Status: in_force

The commissioner, when the commissioner finds that there exists within the State, or in any other state, territory, district or part thereof any dangerous plant disease or insect infestation with reference to which the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States has not determined that a quarantine is necessary and has not established such quarantine, is authorized to promulgate and to enforce by appropriate rules and regulations, adopted in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, a quarantine prohibiting or restricting the transportation within, into or through the State, or any portion thereof, of any class of nursery stock, plant, fruit, seed or other article of any character whatsoever, capable of carrying such plant disease or insect infestation. The commissioner is authorized to make, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, rules and regulations for the seizure, inspection, disinfection, destruction, or other disposition of any nursery stock, plant, fruit, seed or other article of any character whatsoever, capable of carrying any plant disease or insect infestation, a quarantine with respect to which has been established by the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States or the commissioner, and that exists within, or has been transported to, into or, through this State in violation of such quarantine. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §133 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 2999-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 604-A / Section 2999-A
7 §2999-A. Collection of fees
Status: in_force

A dealer as defined in section 2997 shall pay a fee of 1 1/2¢ per hundredweight based on quantity of milk purchased from Maine producers or purchased from producers outside of the State and sold within the State and shall forward that payment to the council no later than the last day of the month following the month in which the milk was purchased. [PL 1999, c. 161, §3 (NEW).]

All producer dealers shall pay to the council a fee of 1 1/2¢ per hundredweight on all milk sold by the producer dealer no later than the last day of the month following the month in which the milk was produced. [PL 1999, c. 161, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 4214 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4214
7 §4214. Nutrient management plans for fish hatcheries
Status: in_force

1. Nutrient management plan required for fish hatcheries. A person who owns or operates a fish hatchery, not including an off-shore marine aquaculture operation in estuarine or marine waters, must have and implement a nutrient management plan for the fish waste from the hatchery by the date specified in rules adopted pursuant to subsection 2 . The commissioner shall maintain a list of fish hatcheries that have a nutrient management plan. [PL 1999, c. 726, §1 (NEW).]

2. Rules for fish hatcheries. In accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 , the commissioner shall adopt rules to establish requirements for nutrient management plans for fish hatcheries, compliance schedules for fish hatcheries, a process for review of the nutrient management plans, periodic revisions of plans and determination of compliance with the plans. A nutrient management plan for a fish hatchery must address storage, management and use of fish waste from the hatchery with the goal of improving water quality. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 1999, c. 726, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 414 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 414
7 §414. Assistance
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall assist and advise individual farmers or groups of farmers in their efforts to market more effectively directly to consumers by: [PL 2013, c. 65, §2 (AMD).]

1. Soliciting participation. Informing farmers of, and soliciting their participation in, any proposed method of direct-marketing; and [PL 2013, c. 65, §2 (AMD).]

2. Technical assistance. [PL 2013, c. 65, §2 (RP).]

3. Referral. Referring farmers to other appropriate sources of assistance. [PL 2013, c. 65, §2 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 194 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 7 / Section 194
7 §194. Budget and taxes
Status: in_force

The executive committee of each county extension association shall prepare an annual budget as requested, showing in detail its estimate of the amount of money to be expended under this chapter within the county or counties for the fiscal year, shall submit the same to a vote of the association at the regular annual meeting and, if the budget is approved by a majority vote of the members of the association present at such meeting, the executive committee shall submit the same to the board of county commissioners on a date requested by the county commissioners, and the county commissioners may, if they deem it justifiable, adopt an appropriate budget for the county extension program and levy a tax therefor. The amount thus raised by direct taxation within any county or combination of counties for the purposes of this chapter shall be used for the salaries of clerks, provision of office space, supplies, equipment, postage, telephone, a contribution toward the salaries of county agents and such other expenses as necessary to maintain an effective county extension program. Whenever the inhabitants of 2 counties shall unite for organization in one association, the executive committee shall present its budget to the county commissioners of both counties. The county commissioners of those counties shall meet jointly to consider and adopt a budget for each county. The amount and proportion of the budget shall be shared in a manner determined by mutual agreement at a joint meeting of the county commissioners. [PL 1985, c. 283, §4 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4020 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4020
7 §4020. Cruel confinement of calves raised for veal and sows during gestation
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Calf raised for veal" means a calf of the bovine species kept for the purpose of producing the food product referred to as veal. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] B. "Covered animal" means a sow during gestation or calf raised for veal that is kept on a farm. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] C. "Enclosure" means a cage, crate or other structure used to confine a covered animal, including, but not limited to, what is commonly described as a "gestation crate" for sows or a "veal crate" for calves. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] D. "Farm" has the same meaning as in section 152 . [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] E. "Fully extending the animal’s limbs" means fully extending all limbs without touching the side of an enclosure. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] F. "Sow during gestation" means a pregnant pig of the porcine species kept for the primary purpose of breeding. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] G. "Turning around freely" means turning in a complete circle without any impediment, including a tether, and without touching the side of an enclosure. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).]

2. Prohibition. A person may not tether or confine a covered animal for all or the majority of a day in a manner that prevents the animal from: A. Lying down, standing up and fully extending the animal’s limbs; and [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] B. Turning around freely. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).]

3. Exceptions. Subsection 2 does not apply: A. To an animal while it is the subject of scientific or agricultural research; [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] B. During examination, testing, individual treatment of or operation on an animal for veterinary purposes; [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] C. To an animal being transported; [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] D. To an animal at a rodeo exhibition or state or county fair exhibition; [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] E. To an animal at a 4-H event or similar exhibition; [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] F. To the slaughter of an animal in accordance with Title 22, chapter 562-A, subchapter 4 and rules pertaining to the slaughter of animals; and [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] G. To a sow during the 7-day period prior to the sow's expected date of giving birth and until the sow's litter is weaned. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).] [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).]

4. Relation to other laws. The provisions of this section are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other laws protecting animal welfare. This section may not be construed to limit any state law or rules protecting the welfare of animals or to prevent a local governing body from adopting and enforcing its own animal welfare laws and regulations. The affirmative defense provisions in section 4016, subsection 3 do not apply to this section. It is not an affirmative defense to alleged violations of this section that the calf or sow was kept as part of an agricultural operation and in compliance with best management practices for animal husbandry. [PL 2009, c. 127, §1 (NEW); PL 2009, c. 127, §3 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 1347 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1347
7 §1347. Remote-control hunting
Status: in_force

An owner or operator of a commercial large game shooting area may not use a website or a service or business via any other means that permits a person to shoot or attempt to shoot any large game that is located in this State through the use of a computer-controlled gun, shooting apparatus or any other remote-control device when the person using the website, service or business is physically removed from the immediate vicinity of the large game animal. [PL 2005, c. 81, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2322 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 410 / Section 2322
7 §2322. Construction and severability -- Article XI
Status: in_force

This compact must be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. This compact is severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any state or of the United States, or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance may not be affected thereby. If this compact is held contrary to the constitution of any state participating herein, the compact remains in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 4159 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 745 / Section 4159
7 §4159. Posted notice
Status: in_force

A seller whose facility has public access shall post, in a prominent location in the area to which a prospective purchaser would have access, a notice printed in a minimum of 48-point, bold-faced type and containing the following language: "YOU ARE ENTITLED TO A STATEMENT OF CONSUMER RIGHTS AND DISCLOSURE OF YOUR ANIMAL'S HEALTH HISTORY AND THE WARRANTY ON YOUR ANIMAL. YOU MAY ASK TO SEE THESE ITEMS PRIOR TO PURCHASE. MAKE SURE YOU RECEIVE THESE ITEMS AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE." [PL 2007, c. 702, §33 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2104 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 401 / Section 2104
7 §2104. Arrears in payments
Status: in_force

No person who is in arrears as to payment for past services of the department under sections 2101 to 2103 shall be entitled to further services until payment of all such arrears shall have been made.
7 M.R.S. § 294 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-G / Section 294
7 §294. Permaculture, edible landscaping, food forests and community gardens
Status: in_force

Pursuant to the right to food as declared in the Constitution of Maine, Article I, Section 25, any political subdivision of the State may develop and implement a program to promote permaculture and establish edible landscaping, food forests and community gardens in public spaces, including publicly owned properties, rights-of-way, school grounds, parks and parking lots. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]

A political subdivision of the State that develops and implements a program under this section may seek and accept money from public and private sources for the development and maintenance of permaculture, edible landscaping, food forests or community gardens and collaborate with local, state or regional public or private entities with expertise in the design and maintenance of permaculture, edible landscaping, food forests or community gardens. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1755 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 303 / Section 1755
7 §1755. Quarantine
Status: in_force

The commissioner may, upon discovery or upon suspicion of the existence of any disease or pathogen among domestic animals or poultry in the State, take whatever action the commissioner considers necessary to prevent possible spread and to control or eradicate the disease or pathogen. Such action may include quarantine of domestic animals, birds, wild animals in captivity and products derived from them, including the quarantine of articles, materials and premises, equipment or areas, for a time and under conditions as the commissioner considers necessary to eradicate or control the disease or pathogen. This quarantine may not be considered licensing or an adjudicatory proceeding, as defined by the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [PL 2001, c. 572, §27 (AMD).]

Any positive diagnosis of a disease made by recognized procedures by recognized diagnostic laboratories, or by recognized qualified persons, must be considered as official diagnosis until proved otherwise. [PL 2001, c. 572, §27 (AMD).]

Quarantine may be made by registered mail or in person by an authorized agent of the commissioner, or by any other person authorized to do so.

The commissioner may use placards or any other methods considered necessary to give notice or warning of the quarantine. [PL 2001, c. 572, §27 (AMD).]

It is illegal to violate any quarantine by any person, and such violation is punishable by penalties as outlined in section 1706 . [PL 2001, c. 572, §27 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4163 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 745 / Section 4163
7 §4163. Dog or cat vendor's license
Status: in_force

A person may not advertise for sale, sell or exchange for value more than one cat or dog under the age of 6 months in a 12-month period unless that person has a valid animal shelter, kennel or breeding kennel license or a valid vendor's license issued under this section. [PL 2019, c. 544, §8 (AMD).]

1. Vendor's license; fee. A person may apply for a vendor's license by completing and submitting to the department an application form provided by the department. Upon receipt of a completed application, the department shall issue a vendor's license and an identifying license number that is valid for a period of 90 days from the date of issuance. A person is entitled to one vendor's license in a 12-month period at no charge. A fee of $25 must be submitted with each additional application for a vendor's license within a 12-month period. [PL 2007, c. 702, §37 (AMD).]

2. Advertising. A person possessing a vendor's license issued under this section must include that vendor's license number in any form of advertising, brochure or sign that announces the availability of a dog or cat for sale or exchange. The vendor's name and license number must be provided to a person purchasing or otherwise receiving a dog or cat from the vendor. [PL 2007, c. 439, §34 (NEW).]

3. Violation. A person who fails to comply with this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $200 may be adjudged, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2007, c. 439, §34 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1341 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1341
7 §1341. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

1. Commercial large game shooting area. "Commercial large game shooting area" means an enclosed area in which large game are kept and a fee is charged to pursue and kill or pursue and attempt to kill large game. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

2. Domesticated bison. "Domesticated bison" means the genus and species Bison bison. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

3. Domesticated boar. "Domesticated boar" means a member of a species of Sus scrofa commonly known as the Eurasian boar or Wild Russian boar. "Domesticated boar" does not include members or varieties of the family Suidae or the species Sus scrofa that are commonly raised for commercial meat production. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

4. Domesticated deer. [PL 2003, c. 386, §7 (RP).]

4-A. Domesticated cervid. "Domesticated cervid" has the same meaning as "cervid" in section 1333, subsection 1, paragraph A . [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. D, §2 (AMD).]

5. Large game. "Large game" means domesticated cervids, domesticated boar and domesticated bison. [PL 2003, c. 386, §9 (AMD).]

6. Parcel. "Parcel" means a contiguous tract of land. Land that is separated by a road that contains frontage along a common portion of that road is considered a contiguous tract. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

7. Person. "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation or other legal entity. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

8. Shooting zone. "Shooting zone" means an area within a parcel that is enclosed to contain one or more species of large game. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2900 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 601 / Section 2900
7 §2900. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

1. Aseptically processed and packaged. "Aseptically processed and packaged" means hermetically sealed in a container and thermally processed to render the product free of microorganisms capable of reproducing in the product under normal nonrefrigeration conditions of storage and distribution. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

2. Bulk milk hauler and sampler. "Bulk milk hauler and sampler" means a person who collects samples and transports raw milk from a farm or raw milk products to or from a farm, milk plant, receiving station or transfer station and has in that person's possession a permit from any state to sample such products. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

3. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the commissioner's duly authorized agent. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).]

4. Dairy or dairy farm. "Dairy or dairy farm" means any place or premises where one or more cows, goats or sheep are kept and from which milk or milk products are provided, sold or offered for sale. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

5. Farm cheese. [PL 2005, c. 270, §1 (RP).]

6. Heat treated. "Heat treated" or "heat-treated" means processed by heating every particle of milk to a temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 30 minutes. [PL 2005, c. 270, §2 (AMD).]

7. Milk. "Milk" means the lacteal secretion, practically free from colostrum, obtained by the complete milking of one or more healthy cows, goats or sheep. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

8. Milk distributor. "Milk distributor" means any person who offers for sale or sells to another person any milk or milk products in their final form. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

9. Milk plant. "Milk plant" means any place, premises or establishment where milk or milk products are collected, handled, processed, stored, pasteurized, aseptically processed, bottled or otherwise prepared for distribution. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

10. Milk producer. "Milk producer" means any person who operates a dairy farm and provides, sells or offers milk or milk products for sale. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

11. Milk products. "Milk products" means cream, light cream, light whipping cream, heavy cream, heavy whipping cream, whipped cream, whipped light cream, sour cream, acidified sour cream, cultured sour cream, milk, butter, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, nonfat dry milk solids, half-and-half, sour half-and-half, acidified sour half-and-half, cultured sour half-and-half, concentrated milk and milk products, skim milk, reconstituted or recombined milk and milk products, low-fat milk, light milk, reduced fat milk, homogenized milk, frozen milk concentrate, eggnog, cultured milk, buttermilk, yogurt, cottage cheese, creamed cottage cheese, acidified milk, low-sodium milk, lactose-reduced milk, aseptically processed and packaged milk and milk products, milk with added safe and suitable microbial organisms and any other milk product, frozen dairy dessert or frozen dairy dessert mix, cheese or other product designated as a milk product by the commissioner that is made by the addition or subtraction of milkfat or addition of safe and suitable optional ingredients for protein, vitamin or mineral fortification. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

12. Milk transport tank. "Milk transport tank" means a vehicle, including the truck and tank, used by a bulk milk hauler and sampler or milk tank vehicle driver to transport bulk shipments of milk from a milk plant, receiving station or transfer station to another milk plant, receiving station or transfer station. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §1 (AMD).]

13. Milk transportation company. "Milk transportation company" means a company responsible for a milk transport tank. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

14. Not pasteurized. "Not pasteurized" means any milk or milk product that has not been subjected to the temperature and time requirements of pasteurization using equipment designed for pasteurization or has not been aseptically processed and packaged. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

15. Pasteurization or pasteurized. "Pasteurization" or "pasteurized" or a similar term means the process of heating every particle of milk or milk product in properly designed and operated equipment to the temperature specified and for the time period specified in any rule adopted pursuant to section 2910 or any pasteurization process that has been recognized by the United States Food and Drug Administration to be equally effective and that is approved by the commissioner. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

16. Person. "Person" means any individual, plant operator, partnership, corporation, company, firm, trustee, association or institution. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

17. Receiving station. "Receiving station" means any place, premise or establishment where raw milk is received, collected, handled, stored or cooled and prepared for further transporting. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]

18. Transfer station. "Transfer station" means any place, premises or establishment where milk or milk products are transferred directly from one milk transport tank to another. [PL 1999, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2997 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 604-A / Section 2997
7 §2997. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

1. Dealer. "Dealer" means any person who purchases or receives milk for sale as the consignee or agent of a producer or handles milk for sale, shipment, storage or processing within the State. "Dealer" includes a producer dealer, a subdealer or a store. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

1-A. Board. "Board" means the Maine Dairy Promotion Board. [PL 1995, c. 693, §12 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 693, §25 (AFF).]

1-B. Council. "Council" means the Maine Dairy and Nutrition Council. [PL 1995, c. 693, §12 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 693, §25 (AFF).]

2. Milk. "Milk" means cows' milk, fluid and whole, skimmed milk, low fat milk and buttermilk, irrespective of whether that milk is flavored. "Milk" includes cream and one quart of cream is considered the equivalent of 4 quarts of milk. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

3. Nutrition. "Nutrition" means the study of proper and balanced diet to promote health, especially in human beings. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

4. Nutrition education. "Nutrition education" means helping and educating people in the selection of food for the primary purpose of nourishing their bodies in health throughout the life cycle and helping and educating people in extending and teaching knowledge of food and nutrition principles, including promotion and research, and the application of these principles. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

5. Producer. "Producer" means any person who produces milk and sells the milk to a dealer. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

6. Producer dealer. "Producer dealer" means a dealer who produces a part or all of that dealer's milk or a person who produces milk and sells to a grocery store, dairy products' store or similar commercial establishment. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 607-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 607-A
7 §607-A. Review or reregistration
Status: in_force

1. Review required. The board shall review chemical pesticides used in this State in accordance with the requirements of this section. The board shall select 2 pesticides for review each year with priority given to pesticides that have patterns of use in this State that differ from prevalent use patterns nationally or regionally. The board may select additional pesticides for review as the board determines need and as resources allow. [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (AMD).]

2. Review process. In cooperation with technical personnel of the Department of Environmental Protection; the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife; the Department of Health and Human Services; the Department of Marine Resources; and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, specifically the Maine Forest Service, the board shall conduct a review consisting of the following or portions of the following as the board determines relevant: A. An environmental risk assessment to determine the effects of pesticides on the ecosystem. This assessment is to be based on available literature. The board shall request data that it determines necessary to carry out the purpose of this chapter; or [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (AMD).] B. A health risk assessment, based on a literature search of laboratory, clinical and epidemiological data available within and without the State. The board shall request data it determines necessary to carry out the purpose of this chapter. [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (AMD).] C. [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (RP).] [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

2-A. Water residue surveys. The board shall conduct a water residue survey at least once every 6 years to establish a representative sample of a number of wells or bodies of water, selected at random, in areas of possible contamination or at other locations to be described by the board, for the purpose of testing these waters and preparing a profile of the kinds and amounts of pesticides present. [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (NEW).]

3. Effect of review on reregistration. If the reviews in this section demonstrate that the impact of the pesticide on the ecosystem warrants additional health or environmental safeguards, the board shall require implementation of those safeguards prior to reregistration. The board may not refuse to renew a pesticides registration based solely on its inability to conduct a review in accordance with this section. [PL 2005, c. 620, §7 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1345 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1345
7 §1345. Applicability of other laws
Status: in_force

1. Cruelty to animals. This chapter does not exempt a person from the provisions of chapter 739 or Title 17, chapter 42, subchapter III . [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

2. Control of disease. The commissioner shall apply and enforce the provisions of chapter 303 and chapter 305 and rules adopted in accordance with those chapters with regard to large game as the commissioner determines necessary to control disease. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 744 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 744
7 §744. Labeling
Status: in_force

Any commercial fertilizer distributed in this State in containers must have placed on or affixed to the container a label setting forth in clearly legible form the information required by section 743 , subsections 1 to 5. [PL 2007, c. 147, §3 (AMD).]

If distributed in bulk, a written or printed statement of the information required by section 743 , subsections 1 to 5, must accompany delivery and be supplied to the purchaser at time of delivery. [PL 2007, c. 147, §3 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 765 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 765
7 §765. Registration
Status: in_force

1. Registration required; fee. Each separately identified agricultural liming product shall be registered before being offered for sale, sold or distributed in the State. The application for registration shall be submitted to the commissioner on forms furnished or approved by the commissioner and shall be accompanied by a fee of $50. Upon approval by the commissioner, a copy of the registration shall be furnished to the applicant. All registrations expire on December 31st of each year. [PL 1987, c. 425, §§1, 3 (NEW).]

2. Fees; nonlapsing fund. The commissioner shall collect all fees under this subchapter and section 743 and deposit them with the Treasurer of State in a separate account to be used for carrying out this subchapter and subchapter 5 , including the cost of inspection, sampling and analysis of commercial fertilizers and agricultural liming materials. These funds do not lapse, but remain in a carry-over account. [PL 2015, c. 191, §8 (AMD).]

3. Registration not required if already registered. A distributor shall not be required to register any brand of agricultural liming material which is already registered under this subchapter by another person, provided that the label does not differ in any respect. [PL 1987, c. 425, §§1, 3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 437 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 437
7 §437. Routine technical rules
Status: in_force

Rules adopted pursuant to this subchapter are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 1995, c. 658, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1037 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1037
7 §1037. Inspector licensing
Status: in_force

1. License. The commissioner may establish standards for licensing potato inspectors for the purposes of this subchapter, conduct examinations to license and license successful applicants; except that the commissioner may determine not to license such private inspectors if the commissioner finds that the volume of potatoes inspected by the federal-state inspection service is insufficient to reasonably and efficiently sustain the availability at the federal-state inspection service in the State. The commissioner shall charge a fee of $10 for taking the examination and $15 for a license. A license is for 2 years and may be renewed. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §119 (COR).]

2. Fees. All fees collected under this section shall be paid immediately to the Treasurer of State and credited to the department for the administration of this section and other expenses incident to the administration of this subchapter. If any fees are not spent during the year in which they are collected, the unexpended balance shall not lapse, but shall be carried as a continuing account and available for the purpose specified until spent. [PL 1981, c. 513, §§10, 12 (NEW).]

3. Revocation. The commissioner may refuse to renew and the District Court may revoke the license of an inspector upon finding that the inspector has knowingly falsified information relating to inspections or his application for a license. [PL 1981, c. 513, §§10, 12 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §78 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 219-C — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 219-C
7 §219-C. Returnable, reusable or refillable containers and packaging
Status: in_force

1. Use permitted; rules and guidelines. The department shall ensure that its rules, established in accordance with the commissioner's rule-making authority in section 12 , and guidelines: A. Explicitly allow a business, on a voluntary basis, to allow consumers to supply their own containers or packaging for the purchase of: (1) Nonfood items; (2) Shelf-stable food items; and (3) Food other than shelf-stable food items as determined by the department by rule; [RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §16 (COR).] B. Explicitly allow a business, on a voluntary basis, to sell nonfood items, shelf-stable food items and other food to consumers in the State in returnable, reusable or refillable containers and packaging, which may be supplied by either the business or a 3rd party; and [PL 2023, c. 528, §2 (NEW).] C. Explicitly establish the right of a business to refuse any returnable, reusable or refillable container or packaging supplied by a consumer. [PL 2023, c. 528, §2 (NEW).] [RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §16 (COR).]

2. Reuse permitted. A returnable, reusable or refillable container or packaging returned by a consumer may be reclaimed by a business or a 3rd party, restored to standards for health and safety and reused in the packaging and selling of a nonfood item, a shelf-stable item or other food to the same or another consumer. The department shall provide technical assistance and education to businesses and consumers regarding best practices for the use and reuse of returnable, reusable or refillable containers. [PL 2023, c. 528, §2 (NEW).]

For purposes of this section, "food" has the same meaning as in Title 22, section 2152, subsection 4 and "business" means a business licensed by the department under Title 22, chapter 551 . [PL 2023, c. 528, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2214 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2214
7 §2214. Shipments certified
Status: in_force

Nursery stock shipped into this State from any other state, province or country must bear a certificate on each package stating that the contents were inspected by an authorized inspecting officer and that the contents appear to be free from plant pests. The State Horticulturist or an assistant may inspect, at the point of destination, all nursery stock coming into the State. If that nursery stock is infested with any plant pests, the State Horticulturist, after notice and opportunity for a hearing as provided in the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, may order the stock destroyed or returned to the consignor at the consignor's expense. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2215 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2215
7 §2215. Transportation of uninspected stock
Status: in_force

A person, firm or corporation who owns, sells or transports nursery stock may not bring nursery stock into this State unless each package bears an unexpired official certificate of inspection that meets the requirements of section 2214 . [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 220-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 220-A
7 §220-A. Farmers Drought Relief Grant Program
Status: in_force

1. Grant program established. The Farmers Drought Relief Grant Program, referred to in this section as "the program," is established in the department to assist farmers in the State to overcome the adverse effects of drought conditions by providing grants in accordance with this section. [PL 2021, c. 729, §1 (NEW).]

2. Eligibility. A farmer in the State may apply for a grant under the program if the farmer needs to establish a source for irrigation water to alleviate the risk of crop losses due to drought. The source for irrigation water must be sustainable, environmentally sound and affordable. [PL 2021, c. 729, §1 (NEW).]

3. Farmers Drought Relief Grant Program Fund. The Farmers Drought Relief Grant Program Fund is established as a nonlapsing fund to provide funding to achieve the purposes of the program. The department may use funds for personnel services and to contract for professional services to carry out the purposes of this section. The fund consists of any funds received from private and public sources. The fund must be held separate and apart from all other money, funds and accounts. Any balance remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. TT, §1 (AMD).]

4. Rules. The department shall adopt rules to implement the program. The rules must include grant eligibility requirements, grant application and award procedures and grant funding limits. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 729, §1 (NEW).]