7 M.R.S. § 991 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 991
7 §991. Title
Status: in_force

Sections 991 to 994 may be known and cited as the "Maine Potato Marketing Act." [RR 1999, c. 2, §7 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 2182 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 404 / Section 2182
7 §2182. Applications
Status: in_force

Applications for examination must be in writing on forms prescribed by the department and must be accompanied by the prescribed fee. The application form may require whatever information the department finds necessary to judge qualifications of an applicant. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2984 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 603-A / Section 2984
7 §2984. Cost of milk to a dealer
Status: in_force

"Cost of milk to a dealer" means the dealer's raw product cost, plus any shrinkage allowance permitted by the commission, to which shall be added the dealer's expenses directly and indirectly incurred in receiving, processing, packaging and delivering milk. Without limitation, these expenses shall include labor, including salaries and bonuses of executives and officers, rent, depreciation, selling costs, maintenance of equipment, utilities, delivery costs, interest, licenses, taxes, insurance, advertising, professional services and all other fixed and variable expenses. The commission may determine the dealer's expenses directly and indirectly incurred in receiving, processing, packaging and delivering fluid milk by either of the following methods: [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]

1. Cost accounting data. Through reliance upon cost accounting data, relating to the dealer, gathered or received by the commission pursuant to section 2952‑A or 2986 for any 3-month period within one year preceding and one year following the date of an alleged violation, unless the dealer proves that changed circumstances render any cost accounting data relied upon by the commission incapable of proving that the violation occurred; or [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. F, §22 (AMD).]

2. Expenses; percentage of dealer price. By imputing an amount to cover these expenses which, unless the dealer proves lower actual costs, shall be deemed to be the percentage of the total dealer price of the milk as the commission shall by rule establish in conjunction with any milk pricing orders which change base dealer margins. [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 4018 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4018
7 §4018. Report of suspected cruelty
Status: in_force

1. Report by veterinarian. Except as provided in subsection 1‑A , a veterinarian licensed in accordance with Title 32, chapter 71‑A who, while acting in a professional capacity, has reasonable cause to suspect that an animal is the subject of cruelty or neglect in violation of this chapter or Title 17, chapter 42 may report the suspected violation to the commissioner or the commissioner's designee. A veterinarian making a report under this section may appear and testify in a judicial or administrative proceeding concerning the condition or care of the animal. [PL 2007, c. 702, §18 (AMD).]

1-A. Report by veterinarian required. A veterinarian licensed in accordance with Title 32, chapter 71‑A who, while acting in a professional capacity, has reasonable cause to suspect that an animal is the subject of aggravated cruelty under Title 17, section 1031, subsection 1‑B shall report the suspected violation to the commissioner or the commissioner's designee. A veterinarian making a report under this section may appear and testify in a judicial or administrative proceeding concerning the condition or care of the animal. [PL 2007, c. 702, §19 (NEW).]

2. Immunity. A veterinarian reporting or testifying under this section is immune from criminal or civil liability or professional disciplinary action that might otherwise result from these actions. The immunity from liability for releasing confidential information applies only to the release of information to the court or to the department, an animal control officer, attorney for the State or law enforcement agency involved in the investigation. [PL 2001, c. 422, §11 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3945 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 725 / Section 3945
7 §3945. Use of license fees and court fines retained by municipalities
Status: in_force

Except for the $1 recording fee pursuant to section 3942 retained by the municipal clerk, all fees and court fines retained by municipalities must be kept in a separate account and must be used for the salaries and costs of animal control, enforcement of licensing laws, care of stray animals that are injured or abandoned and the support of one or more approved animal shelters. Any money not expended for these purposes in a municipality's fiscal year does not lapse, but must be carried over to the next fiscal year. [PL 2001, c. 617, §8 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4019 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4019
7 §4019. Removal from unattended motor vehicle
Status: in_force

1. Removal authorized. A law enforcement officer, humane agent, animal control officer, firefighter as defined in Title 26, section 2101 or security guard licensed under Title 32, chapter 93 , referred to in this section as "authorized persons," may take all steps that are reasonably necessary to remove an animal from a motor vehicle if the animal's safety, health or well-being appears to be in immediate danger from heat, cold or lack of adequate ventilation and the conditions could reasonably be expected to cause extreme suffering or death. [PL 2019, c. 370, §6 (AMD).]

2. Notice required. A law enforcement officer, humane agent or animal control officer who removes an animal in accordance with subsection 1 shall, in a secure and conspicuous location on or within the motor vehicle, leave written notice bearing the officer's or agent's name and office and the address of the location where the animal may be claimed. A firefighter, first responder or security guard who removes an animal in accordance with subsection 1 shall, in a secure and conspicuous location on or within the motor vehicle, leave written notice bearing the person's name and the address of the location where the animal may be claimed. The owner may claim the animal only after payment of all charges that have accrued for the maintenance, care, medical treatment and impoundment of the animal. [PL 2011, c. 288, §1 (AMD).]

3. Immunity. An authorized person who removes an animal from a motor vehicle pursuant to subsection 1 is immune from criminal or civil liability that might otherwise result from the removal. [PL 2011, c. 288, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2991 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 604 / Section 2991
7 §2991. 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. Board. "Board" means the Maine Dairy Promotion Board. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

2. Class I milk. "Class I milk" means: A. All fluid milk sold, distributed or disposed of as or in milk that contains not more than 11% butterfat and skim milk and cultured buttermilk sold for human consumption; and [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).] B. All milk products sold, distributed or disposed of for human consumption as or in flavored milk and flavored skim milk. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).] [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

3. Consumer. "Consumer" means any person other than a milk dealer who purchases milk for fluid consumption. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

3-A. Council. "Council" means the Maine Dairy and Nutrition Council. [PL 1995, c. 693, §6 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 693, §25 (AFF).]

4. 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 or a store. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

5. Milk. "Milk" means cows' milk and includes cream. One quart of cream is considered the equivalent of 4 quarts of milk. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

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

7. Producer dealer. "Producer dealer" means any dealer who produces a part or all of that dealer's milk and sells milk to other than a dealer. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

8. Records. "Records" means books, records, accounts, memoranda or other data pertaining to the purchase and distribution of milk. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

9. Store. "Store" means a grocery store, dairy products' store, canteen, milk vending machine operator, milk dispensing operator or any similar commercial establishment or outlet or any other place or method of sale in which milk is sold to consumers for consumption off the premises. [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 286 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-F / Section 286
7 §286. Compliance with food safety regulations
Status: in_force

An individual who grows, produces, processes or prepares food or food products for purposes other than direct producer-to-consumer transactions in a municipality, plantation or unorganized territory governed by an ordinance authorized pursuant to section 284 shall grow, produce, process or prepare the food or food products in compliance with all applicable state and federal food safety laws, rules and regulations. [PL 2021, c. 625, §4 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 544 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 544
7 §544. Violations
Status: in_force

Whoever adulterates or misbrands apples within the meaning of section 531 , or whoever packs, sells, distributes, transports, offers or exposes for sale, distribution or transportation apples in violation of any provision of this subchapter commits a civil violation for which the following forfeitures may be adjudged: [PL 1977, c. 696, §64 (RPR).]

1. First violation. For the first violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $100; and [PL 1977, c. 696, §64 (NEW).]

2. Subsequent violation. For each subsequent violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $200. [PL 1977, c. 696, §64 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1344 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1344
7 §1344. Violation; penalties
Status: in_force

1. Operating commercial large game shooting area without license. A person who operates a commercial large game shooting area without a license issued under section 1342 or section 1342‑A is guilty of a Class E crime. [PL 2009, c. 249, §8 (AMD).]

1-A. Remote-control hunting. A person who owns or operates a commercial large game shooting area that uses remote-control hunting in violation of section 1347 commits a Class E crime. [PL 2005, c. 81, §1 (NEW).]

2. Civil violations. Except for operating a commercial large game shooting area without a license or using remote-control hunting as provided in subsections 1 and 1‑A , a person who violates any provision of this chapter or any rule adopted pursuant to this chapter commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $500 for a first violation and not to exceed $1,000 for a 2nd violation may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 81, §1 (AMD).]

3. Revocation of license. The commissioner may revoke a license issued under section 1342 or under section 1342‑A for any violation of this chapter or rule adopted pursuant to this chapter or any violation of chapter 739 or Title 17, chapter 42, subchapter 3 . [PL 2009, c. 249, §9 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3954 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 727 / Section 3954
7 §3954. Prohibitions on dangerous dogs and nuisance dogs
Status: in_force

1. Prohibitions. A person may not: A. [PL 2019, c. 95, §1 (RP).] B. Transfer ownership of a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a dangerous dog without the permission of the court, unless the transfer is to an animal control officer or an animal shelter that has a contract with a municipality to euthanize the dog for the municipality; or [PL 2017, c. 404, §13 (NEW).] C. Tether a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a dangerous dog or a nuisance dog. [PL 2017, c. 404, §13 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 95, §1 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a civil violation for which a fine not to exceed $100 may be adjudged in addition to court costs. [PL 2017, c. 404, §13 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 535 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 535
7 §535. Prohibitions
Status: in_force

No person shall, within this State, pack, sell, distribute, transport, offer or expose for sale, distribution or transportation apples which are adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of section 531 .
7 M.R.S. § 2753 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 523 / Section 2753
7 §2753. Certificates of inspection
Status: in_force

No honeybees or used honeybee equipment may be shipped into the State without a health certificate signed by a legally authorized inspector at the point of shipment indicating that they are free from regulated contagious or infectious diseases and parasites based on actual inspection made within 30 days of the date of the shipment. These certificates must also indicate the destination of the bees or equipment within the State. [PL 1985, c. 572 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3953 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 727 / Section 3953
7 §3953. Stealing, injuring or killing dogs
Status: in_force

Except as provided in section 3951 and Title 12, section 12404 , and unless the killing is justified to protect persons or property, a person who steals, confines or secretes, willfully or negligently injures or willfully or negligently kills a dog is liable in damages to the dog's owner in a civil action. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §13 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 193 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 7 / Section 193
7 §193. County extension associations
Status: in_force

For the purpose of carrying out this chapter, there may be created in each county or combination of 2 counties within the State an organization to be known as a "county extension association," and its services available to all residents of a county. Such county extension association shall have adopted a constitution and set of bylaws acceptable to the University of Maine and they shall be recognized as the official body within that county or counties for carrying on extension work in agriculture and natural resources, youth development, and home economics and community life within that county or counties in cooperation with the University of Maine. The county extension is viewed as a unique and important educational program of county government. The county extension association may make such regulations and bylaws for its government and the carrying on of its work as are not inconsistent with that chapter, provided that one such organization shall be formed in each county. [PL 1985, c. 779, §28 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2871 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 531 / Section 2871
7 §2871. Rules
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall adopt rules to enforce this Part in accordance with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 . [PL 1985, c. 572 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2751 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 523 / Section 2751
7 §2751. Import permits
Status: in_force

Honeybees or used honeybee equipment shipped or moved from any other state or country into this State must be accompanied by a permit issued by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. The department shall issue a permit for the importation of honeybees or used honeybee equipment when the applicant submits a completed application form, a certified health certificate and the registration fee. The application, certificate of inspection and registration fee must be received by the department and the permit issued prior to movement of honeybees or equipment into the State. [PL 1985, c. 572 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 320-AA — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 10-F / Section 320-AA
7 §320-AA. PFAS Response Program (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 7, SECTION 341)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 7, SECTION 341)

1. Definitions. As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Agricultural land" has the same meaning as in section 32, subsection 2 . [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] B. "Commercial farm" means a farm that produces any farm product with the intent that the farm product be sold or otherwise disposed of to generate income. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] C. "Farm product" means those plants and animals useful to humans and includes, but is not limited to, forages and sod crops, grains and food crops, dairy products, poultry and poultry products, bees, livestock and livestock products and fruits, berries, vegetables, flowers, seeds, grasses, Christmas trees and other similar products. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] D. "On-farm mitigation efforts" means activities intended to reduce the impact of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances contamination on a commercial farm's production of farm products. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] E. "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances" or "PFAS" has the same meaning as in Title 32, section 1732, subsection 5‑A . [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] F. "Program" means the PFAS Response Program. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

2. Program established; purpose. The PFAS Response Program is established to effectively respond to and address PFAS contamination affecting agricultural producers in the State, to assist commercial farms affected by PFAS contamination and to safeguard public health. The commissioner shall develop, implement and administer the program for the purpose of abating, cleaning up and mitigating threats and hazards posed by PFAS that affect agricultural producers in the State and that affect the food supply; providing support to affected commercial farms; supporting critical PFAS research; and allowing for the department to strategically and effectively respond to PFAS concerns and issues as they arise. The program may include but is not limited to: A. Establishing maximum levels for PFAS in farm products in consultation with the Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. When a maximum level is exceeded, the department may prohibit the commercial sale of the product affected and require the PFAS-impacted agricultural producer to incorporate on-farm mitigation efforts as a prerequisite for any future authorization from the department to resume commercial sale of the product affected; [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] B. Providing testing support, including conducting initial sampling and ongoing monitoring, to assist agricultural producers in understanding the extent of PFAS contamination on their commercial farms. Testing may include but is not limited to testing of groundwater, surface water, soil, animal tissue, animal blood and serum, plant tissue, animal feed, eggs, milk, manure and compost; [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] C. Providing technical assistance to interpret test results, craft recommendations for on-farm mitigation efforts to reduce the risk of PFAS contamination and implement modifications to ensure the safety of farm products and ongoing farm viability; [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] D. Providing financial assistance to PFAS-impacted agricultural producers, including but not limited to self-testing reimbursement, agricultural water filtration equipment and maintenance costs, livestock depopulation, compensation for unmarketable processed livestock, equipment and input cost coverage, clean feed support and infrastructure support; [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] E. Establishing baseline criteria that agricultural producers must adhere to in order to receive technical and financial assistance, which includes granting property access sufficient to conduct appropriate and required PFAS investigations, cooperating with program staff by providing timely and complete information regarding product types, feed sources and other relevant management practices and adhering to animal welfare and nutrient management recommendations. An agricultural producer must have an opportunity to request a hearing before the department pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 4 regarding the program's decision to deny, cease or modify financial support based on the criteria established according to this subsection. The department shall inform the agricultural producer of the opportunity to request a hearing in the written communication notifying the agricultural producer of the program's decision to deny, cease or modify financial support; and [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] F. Undertaking or supporting research efforts necessary to advance scientific understanding of PFAS and their movement and effect in agricultural systems that inform on-farm management recommendations or regulatory decisions. These efforts may be accomplished by department staff or state agency partners or contracted to qualified 3rd parties. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

3. Administration. The Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources within the department shall administer the program. The department may also partner with state agencies or contract with 3rd parties to effectuate the purposes of this chapter. The program is distinct from the Fund To Address PFAS Contamination established in section 320‑K . The program enforces maximum levels of PFAS in farm products, provides direct on-farm assistance, including but not limited to testing, analysis and on-farm mitigation strategy recommendations, in addition to providing specific financial support that is integral to commercial farms making changes necessary to adapt to and mitigate on-farm PFAS risk. [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

4. Rules. The department may adopt rules to implement this chapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2025, c. 65, §5 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]
7 M.R.S. § 292 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-G / Section 292
7 §292. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]

1. Food forest. "Food forest" means a diverse planting of edible plants that attempts to mimic the ecosystems and patterns found in nature. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]

2. Permaculture. "Permaculture" means sustainable landscape design and ecosystems based on a diversified crop of perennial trees, shrubs, herbs, vegetables, weeds, fungi and root systems that weave together microclimate, annual and perennial plants, soils, water management, wildlife and human needs into intricately connected, productive communities. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]

3. Vegetable garden. "Vegetable garden" means any plot of ground or elevated soil bed on residential property where annual or perennial vegetables, herbs, fruits, flowers, pollinator plants, leafy greens or other food-producing plants are cultivated. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 529 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 529
7 §529. Violations
Status: in_force

Any person, firm or corporation who shall fail, neglect or refuse to comply with any of the provisions of this subchapter, or the rules and regulations issued thereunder, commits a civil violation for which the following forfeiture may be adjudged: [PL 1977, c. 696, §61 (RPR).]

1. First violation. For the first violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $100; and [PL 1977, c. 696, §61 (NEW).]

2. Subsequent violations. For each subsequent violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $200. [PL 1977, c. 696, §61 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3923-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 721 / Section 3923-A
7 §3923-A. License and recording fees
Status: in_force

Except as provided in subsection 3 and section 3923‑B , a dog owner or keeper obtaining a license from a municipal clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder shall pay the license and recording fees established in this section. For purposes of this section, "dog licensing agent" means an animal shelter or a veterinarian pursuant to section 3923‑F . [PL 2025, c. 414, §4 (AMD).]

1. Dogs capable of producing young. A dog owner or keeper shall pay a fee of $11 to the municipal clerk or dog licensing agent for each dog 6 months of age or older and capable of producing young. A dog is considered capable of producing young unless certification under subsection 2 is provided. The municipal clerk or dog licensing agent shall retain a $1 recording fee and pay the remaining $10 to the department for deposit in the Animal Welfare Fund. [PL 2013, c. 115, §10 (AMD).]

2. Dogs incapable of producing young. A dog owner shall pay a fee of $6 to the municipal clerk or a dog licensing agent for each dog 6 months of age or older and incapable of producing young. A dog is considered incapable of producing young when the owner provides the following: A. A written certificate issued by a veterinarian stating that the veterinarian has neutered the dog; [PL 1997, c. 690, §15 (AMD).] B. A written certificate issued by a veterinarian stating that the veterinarian has examined the dog and determined that the dog is incapable of producing young; or [PL 1997, c. 690, §15 (AMD).] C. A previous license stating that the dog is incapable of producing young. [PL 1997, c. 690, §15 (AMD).] The municipal clerk or dog licensing agent shall retain a $1 recording fee, deposit $2 in the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 and pay the remaining $3 to the department for deposit in the Animal Welfare Fund. [PL 2013, c. 115, §10 (AMD).]

3. Exemption from fees. A municipal clerk or a dog licensing agent shall issue a license upon application and without payment of a license fee required under this section for: A. A service dog owned or kept by a person with a physical or mental disability; [PL 2007, c. 664, §12 (AMD).] B. [PL 2007, c. 664, §12 (RP).] C. [PL 2007, c. 664, §12 (RP).] D. A trained search and rescue dog recognized by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or by the statewide association of search and rescue that cooperates with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in developing standards for search and rescue or such a dog awaiting training; and [PL 2001, c. 422, §9 (AMD).] E. A dog certified by the State and used for law enforcement purposes. [PL 2001, c. 422, §9 (NEW).] [PL 2013, c. 115, §10 (AMD).]

4. Late fees. An owner or keeper required to license a dog under section 3922, subsection 1 or section 3923‑B, subsection 1 and applying for a license for that dog after January 31st shall pay to the municipal clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder a late fee of $25 in addition to the annual license fee paid in accordance with subsection 1 or 2 . The clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder shall deposit all late fees collected under this subsection into the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 . [PL 2025, c. 414, §5 (AMD).]

5. Dogs determined to be dangerous dogs or nuisance dogs by the court. The owner or keeper of a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a dangerous dog shall pay a fee of $100 to the municipal clerk or a dog licensing agent. The municipal clerk or dog licensing agent shall retain a $1 recording fee, deposit $98 in the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 and pay the remaining $1 to the department for deposit in the Animal Welfare Fund. The owner or keeper of a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a nuisance dog shall pay a fee of $30 to the municipal clerk or a dog licensing agent. The municipal clerk or dog licensing agent shall retain a $1 recording fee, deposit $28 in the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 and pay the remaining $1 to the department for deposit in the Animal Welfare Fund. A dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a dangerous dog or a nuisance dog does not qualify for the exemptions from fees under subsection 3 . An owner or keeper of a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a dangerous dog applying for a license for that dog after January 31st shall pay to the municipal clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder a late fee of $150 in addition to the annual license fee paid in accordance with this subsection. An owner or keeper of a dog determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a nuisance dog applying for a license for that dog after January 31st shall pay to the municipal clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder a late fee of $70 in addition to the annual license fee paid in accordance with this subsection. The clerk, dog licensing agent or dog recorder shall deposit all late fees collected under this subsection into the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 . [PL 2017, c. 404, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 12 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 12
7 §12. Rules and standards
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall adopt, consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 , rules for carrying out this Title and all other statutes delegating responsibility to the commissioner or the department. The commissioner may fix standards of purity, quality or strength when such standards are not specified or fixed by law, and shall publish them together with such other information concerning articles of commercial feeding stuff, commercial fertilizer, drug or food as the commissioner may consider to be of public benefit. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §56 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 2985 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 603-A / Section 2985
7 §2985. Cost of milk to a retail store
Status: in_force

"Cost of milk to a retail store" means the price paid by a retail store to a dealer for fluid milk, to which shall be added the retail store's expenses directly and indirectly incurred in shipping, handling and selling fluid milk. Without limitation, these expenses shall include labor, including salaries and bonuses of executives and officers, rent, depreciation, selling costs, maintenance of equipment, utilities, shipping costs, interest, licenses, taxes, insurance, advertising, professional services and all other fixed and variable expenses. The commission may determine the retail store's expenses directly and indirectly incurred in shipping, handling and selling milk by any of the following methods: [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]

1. Cost accounting data. Through reliance upon cost accounting data, relating to the retailer, gathered or received by the commission pursuant to section 2952‑A or 2986 for any 3-month period within one year preceding and one year following the date of an alleged violation, unless the retail store proves that changed circumstances render the cost accounting data relied upon by the commission incapable of proving that the violation occurred; [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. F, §23 (AMD).]

2. Expenses; percentage of total retail price. By imputing an amount to cover these expenses which, unless the retail store proves lower actual costs, shall be deemed to be the percentage of the total retail price of the milk as the commission shall by rule establish in conjunction with any milk pricing orders which change retail margins; or [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]

3. Other expenses. By imputing an amount to cover these expenses which, unless the retail store proves lower actual costs, shall be determined by dividing total store expenses by total store sales and multiplying the percentage obtained by the total retail price of the milk. [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 615 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 615
7 §615. Subpoenas
Status: in_force

The board may issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, documents and records in the State in any hearing affecting the authority or privilege granted by a license, registration or permit issued under the provisions of this subchapter. [PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. E, §14 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 101 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 4 / Section 101
7 §101. Violations relating to pulling events
Status: in_force

1. Conducting pulling event without permit. A person that conducts, causes to be conducted or sponsors a public or private pulling event between animals or pairs of animals within the State without a permit from the commissioner commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]

2. Prohibition on participating in pulling events. A person who has been convicted of a violation of Title 17, section 1031 or has been adjudicated to have committed a civil violation of section 4011 within the previous 5 years may not participate as an animal owner or handler or in any other capacity, directly or indirectly, in a pulling event. A person who participates in a pulling event in violation of this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]

3. Permit revocation. The commissioner may, in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 , revoke or refuse to renew a permit to hold a pulling event: A. If after receiving notice from the department the sponsor of a pulling event allows a person to participate as an owner or handler or in any other capacity, directly or indirectly, in a pulling event within 5 years of that person's being convicted of a violation of Title 17, section 1031 or being adjudicated of a civil violation of section 4011 ; or [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).] B. When the commissioner has received written notification from the Pull Events Commission of violations of laws or rules at a pulling event conducted under a permit held by that sponsor. [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1041 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1041
7 §1041. Title
Status: in_force

This subchapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Maine Seed Law."
7 M.R.S. § 284 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-F / Section 284
7 §284.  Authority
Status: in_force

Pursuant to the home rule authority granted to municipalities by Title 30‑A, section 3001 and by the Constitution of Maine, Article VIII, Part Second, pursuant to the authority granted to plantations by Title 30‑A, section 7051 , and notwithstanding any provision of law regulating food in this Title or Title 22 to the contrary, except as contained in section 285 , a municipality or plantation may adopt ordinances regarding traditional foodways and direct producer-to-consumer transactions, and the State shall recognize such ordinances by not enforcing those laws or implementing rules with respect to those traditional foodways or direct producer-to-consumer transactions that are governed by the ordinance. [PL 2025, c. 309, §11 (AMD).]

Pursuant to the authority granted to county commissioners by Title 30‑A, section 7505 and notwithstanding any provision of law regulating food in this Title or Title 22 to the contrary, except as contained in section 285 , a county may adopt ordinances regarding traditional foodways and direct producer-to-consumer transactions within one or more unorganized territories within that county, and the State shall recognize such an ordinance by not enforcing those laws or implementing rules with respect to those traditional foodways or direct producer-to-consumer transactions that are governed by the ordinance. [PL 2025, c. 309, §11 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2211 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2211
7 §2211. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

1. Commissioner. "Commissioner" includes a designee of the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).]

2. Greenhouse. "Greenhouse" means a structure covered with glass, plastic, fiberglass or other transparent material in which plants are cultivated in a controlled environment. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

3. Nursery. "Nursery" means a place where nursery stock is produced, stored or offered for sale. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

4. Nursery stock. "Nursery stock" means: A. Woody plants, including ornamental and fruiting trees, shrubs, vines and all viable parts of these plants; [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).] B. Herbaceous plants, including florist stock plants, annuals, perennials, vegetable seedlings, herbs, potted plants and all viable parts of these plants; and [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).] C. Any other plant or plant part designated by the commissioner. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).] "Nursery stock" does not include cut Christmas trees, wreaths, field crops, seeds, dried herbs and flowers and cut flowers. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

5. Other materials. "Other materials" means material not included in the definition of "nursery stock," such as containers, seeds and cut Christmas trees. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]

6. Plant pest. "Plant pest" means any insect, mite, nematode, fungus, virus, bacteria, slug, snail or other form of aquatic or terrestrial plant or organism that may cause injury to a plant or that the commissioner declares to be a plant pest. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3962-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 729 / Section 3962-A
7 §3962-A. Penalty for damage to livestock or pets by animals
Status: in_force

1. Violation. Except as provided in subsection 3 , the owner or keeper of an animal that due to negligence of the animal's owner or keeper kills or injures livestock, poultry, domestic rabbits or pets commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $100 may be adjudged in addition to costs. [PL 1999, c. 254, §9 (AMD).]

2. Additional remedy. A person who suffers damage as a result of a violation of subsection 1 may also pursue a civil action against the owner or keeper of the animal pursuant to section 3961 . [PL 1999, c. 254, §9 (AMD).]

3. Exception. If the owner or keeper of an animal that kills or injures another animal establishes that the animal that was killed or injured provoked the killing or injury or that the animal that committed the killing or injury was leashed or controlled on the owner's or keeper's property at the time of the killing or injury, then the owner or keeper is not liable under this section or section 3961 . [PL 1999, c. 254, §9 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1342 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 202-A / Section 1342
7 §1342. Commercial large game shooting area license
Status: in_force

Beginning October 1, 2000, a person may not establish or operate a commercial large game shooting area unless that person has a valid license issued in accordance with this section or section 1342‑A . [PL 2009, c. 249, §2 (AMD).]

Except as provided in section 1342‑A , the commissioner may issue a license under this chapter only to a person who operated a commercial large game shooting area during the period beginning October 1, 1999 and ending March 15, 2000. [PL 2009, c. 249, §3 (AMD).]

1. Application. An applicant for a commercial large game shooting area license must submit an application on a form provided by the commissioner along with the required license fee as provided under subsection 3 . An application under this subsection must be submitted for a specific parcel of land, and the applicant must demonstrate in accordance with subsection 9 that the applicant has operated a commercial large game shooting area on that parcel of land between October 1, 1999 and March 15, 2000. The application must include the name and address of the person applying for the license and a map locating the proposed site in relation to known or easily identifiable terrain features, such as a road junction or a stream and road junction. The map must be a copy of a 7.5 or 15 minute series topographical map produced by the United States Geological Survey or a map of equivalent or superior detail in the location of roads. [PL 2009, c. 249, §4 (AMD).]

2. Land and facility requirements. To qualify for a license under this section, an applicant must demonstrate that the shooting area meets the following. A. Each shooting zone in which domesticated cervids are enclosed is a minimum of 50 acres. [PL 2003, c. 386, §10 (AMD).] B. Each shooting zone in which large game other than domesticated cervids are enclosed is a minimum of 200 acres. [PL 2003, c. 386, §10 (AMD).] C. The total area of land enclosed for operation as a commercial large game shooting area does not exceed 400 acres. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] D. A shooting zone is encompassed by fencing or other barriers sufficient to contain the species of large game contained in that shooting area. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] E. The applicant owns or leases all of the land to be used as a commercial large game shooting area. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2003, c. 386, §10 (AMD).]

3. Fees. The annual fee for a commercial large game shooting area is $1,000, except that the annual fee for a commercial large game shooting area is $500 for an operation that is licensed to possess domesticated cervids under chapter 202 and harvests only domesticated cervids raised on that farm. Except as provided in section 1346 , all fees paid for a license issued under this section must be deposited in the Animal Industry Fund established under section 1332 . [PL 2003, c. 386, §10 (AMD).]

4. Issuance of license. Upon receipt of a complete application and the license fee, the commissioner shall issue an annual license after determination that the land and facility requirements are met. The commissioner may require inspection of an operation prior to issuing a license to determine compliance with this chapter and rules adopted pursuant to subsection 8 . The commissioner may not issue more than one license to a person. Upon issuing a license, the commissioner shall provide the licensee with transport tags to identify an animal killed on the premises of that license holder at a cost of $25 for each tag. Except as provided in section 1346 , transport tag fees must be deposited in the Animal Industry Fund. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

5. Transfer of license. [PL 2025, c. 29, §1 (RP).]

5-A. Transfer of license. A person may not transfer a commercial large game shooting area license without obtaining approval of the commissioner for the transfer. Department approval must be obtained prior to the transfer of the license. The department, at its discretion, may require that the proposed new licensee apply for a new license or may approve the transfer of the existing license upon a satisfactory showing that the proposed new licensee can abide by the license terms and conditions and comply with subsection 2 . [PL 2025, c. 29, §2 (NEW).]

6. Restrictions. Large game may not be tethered in a shooting area and must be free to roam. A person may shoot or attempt to shoot large game within a shooting area only when that person is in a tree stand or accompanied by the license holder or an employee of the license holder. Shooting is limited to the time period from 1/2 hour before sunrise as defined in Title 12, section 10001 to 1/2 hour after sunset as defined in Title 12, section 10001 . A person who kills or attempts to kill large game in a commercial large game shooting area may use only the following weapons: A. Firearms of any type permitted for hunting under Title 12, Part 13; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §12 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Archery equipment of any type permitted for hunting under Title 12, Part 13. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §12 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §12 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

7. Inspection. The commissioner or a veterinarian or other person employed by the State may enter at the direction of the commissioner, at any reasonable time, a commercial large game shooting area to make examinations of or conduct tests on large game for the existence of contagious or infectious diseases and to review records and make observations to determine compliance with this chapter and rules adopted pursuant to subsection 8 . When the commissioner requires or conducts tests on large game for the existence of contagious or infectious diseases, the license holder is responsible for costs associated with the tests. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

8. Rulemaking. The commissioner shall adopt rules in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 to implement the provisions of this chapter. The initial rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . Subsequent amendments to those rules are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

9. Verification of existing commercial large game shooting areas. Prior to issuing a license, the commissioner must verify that the applicant operated a commercial large game shooting area during the period beginning October 1, 1999 and ending March 15, 2000. An applicant may demonstrate compliance with this requirement: A. By submitting a copy of a published advertisement describing the large game shooting experience offered. The copy must include the name of the publication and the date of the issue in which the advertisement appeared; [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] B. By submitting a dated receipt for services that includes the name and address of the person who paid for a large game shooting experience and supporting financial records; or [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] C. By submitting other acceptable verification as determined by the commissioner, including such information required by the commissioner to establish the type of large game harvested or offered for harvesting in that shooting area between October 1, 1999 and March 15, 2000. [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).] [PL 1999, c. 765, §3 (NEW).]

10. Expansion of licenses. A person issued a license under this section shall notify the commissioner prior to offering a genus or species of large game for harvesting that was not offered for harvesting at the time the initial license was issued. The notification must state the additional genus or species that the license holder is proposing to offer. Upon determining that the license holder can meet the requirements of subsection 2 , the commissioner shall issue a revised license. [PL 2009, c. 249, §5 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 162 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 162
7 §162. Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recognition program
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall establish a process for designating Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recipients according to this section. This designation provides farmers an opportunity to recognize their commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and long-term resource management and to increase public awareness of agricultural producer commitment to best management practices. [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]

1. Application. An applicant for designation as a Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recipient shall submit a completed application for verification in accordance with subsection 3 to the department. The department shall develop an application and make it available through the offices of the soil and water conservation districts and private organizations and public agencies that support or represent farmers in the State. [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]

2. Eligibility. A farm is eligible for designation under this section if it engages in the management of cropland or the production of livestock, specialty crops or value-added products and meets the criteria established by the commissioner as follows: A. The farm consists of land classified as prime farmland, land of statewide or local importance or unique farmland by the Natural Resources Conservation Service within the United States Department of Agriculture. In counties where land of local importance has not been identified, land that is actively farmed may be eligible as provided in rules adopted under subsection 4 ; [PL 2009, c. 356, Pt. A, §1 (NEW).] B. The farm is engaged in the commercial production of agricultural products; or [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).] C. The farm complies with additional criteria established in rules adopted under subsection 4 . [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).] A farm that is farmed under a lease may be designated as long as the landowner and the lessee sign the application. [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]

3. Verification of eligibility. An applicant for designation as a Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recipient shall submit a completed application form together with support materials as required in rules adopted under subsection 4 to the department for verification of eligibility. [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]

4. Rules. The commissioner may adopt rules to further define the verification process under subsection 3 and establish additional eligibility criteria as needed for designation of Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recipients. The commissioner may provide signs or certificates or develop other means of recognizing a farm that has attained designation as a Maine Farm Agricultural Resource Management and Sustainability recipient. Rules adopted under this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]

5. Fee. The commissioner may charge fees as necessary for the administration of this section. [PL 2017, c. 160, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 540 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 540
7 §540. Registration
Status: in_force

Any person owning or operating a controlled atmosphere room or storage building or packers or repackers of apples coming under section 539 shall register with the commissioner on a form prescribed by the commissioner. The registration period shall commence on August 1st and end on July 31st of each year. Owners or operators of such a room or storage building shall register on or before August 1st of each year.

The commissioner shall assign each approved registrant a registration number preceded by the letters "Maine C.A." This number shall be clearly marked on all containers coming under section 539 and shall be in accordance with all provisions of law pertaining to markings for apples.
7 M.R.S. § 783 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 783
7 §783. Stop sale
Status: in_force

The commissioner may issue and enforce a written order to the owner or custodian of any plant or soil amendment to stop sale, use or removal, when the commissioner finds the plant or soil amendment is being offered for sale in violation of any of the provisions of this subchapter, until the subchapter has been complied with and the soil amendment is released in writing by the commissioner, or the violation has been otherwise legally disposed of. The issuance of the order shall not be considered licensing or an adjudicatory proceeding, as defined by the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 . [PL 1979, c. 491, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 623 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 623
7 §623. Prior liability
Status: in_force

The enactment of this subchapter does not have the effect of terminating or in any way modifying any liability, civil or criminal, in existence on October 1, 1975. [PL 2005, c. 620, §23 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2902-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 601 / Section 2902-B
7 §2902-B. Sale of unpasteurized milk and milk products
Status: in_force

1. Sale of unpasteurized milk or milk product. A person may not sell unpasteurized milk or a product made from unpasteurized milk, including heat-treated cheese, unless the label on that product contains the words "not pasteurized." [PL 2005, c. 270, §3 (AMD).]

2. Sale of unpasteurized milk or milk product at eating establishment. Except as provided in subsection 5 , a person may not sell unpasteurized milk or a product made from unpasteurized milk at an eating establishment as defined in Title 22, section 2491, subsection 7 . [PL 2009, c. 652, Pt. B, §1 (AMD).]

3. Exception. This section does not apply to cheese that has been aged at a temperature above 35 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 60 days prior to sale. [PL 2005, c. 270, §3 (AMD).]

4. Testing of unpasteurized milk products. The commissioner shall establish a process by rule for submitting samples of unpasteurized milk products to an independent laboratory for testing when: A. The milk laboratory operated by the department has tested unpasteurized milk products and determined that they do not meet the standards for unpasteurized milk products established by rules adopted pursuant to section 2910 ; and [PL 2005, c. 172, §1 (NEW).] B. The person operating the milk plant that processed the milk products has requested independent testing. [PL 2005, c. 172, §1 (NEW).] The commissioner may require the person requesting the independent testing under paragraph B to pay for that testing. Any restrictions on the sale of unpasteurized milk products pending test results and after receipt of test results must be established by rule. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . For the purposes of this subsection, "independent laboratory" means a laboratory that is operated by a private entity or a public entity other than the department. [PL 2005, c. 172, §1 (NEW).]

4. (REALLOCATED TO T. 7, §2902-B, sub-§5) Sale of heat-treated cheese at eating establishment. [PL 2005, c. 270, §3 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 683, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

5. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 7, §2902-B, sub-§4) Sale of heat-treated cheese at eating establishment. Notwithstanding subsection 2 , heat-treated cheese may be offered for consumption at an eating establishment as defined in Title 22, section 2491, subsection 7 provided the menu identifies items on the menu that contain or are made with heat-treated cheese and provides notice that heat-treated cheese is not pasteurized using the words "not pasteurized" on the menu. [PL 2005, c. 683, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]
7 M.R.S. § 1756 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 303 / Section 1756
7 §1756. Appraisal, destruction and indemnity
Status: in_force

Upon discovery of any contagious or infectious disease or pathogen among domestic animals, the commissioner may cause the affected or exposed animals to be appraised and destroyed, and a proper disposition of the carcasses made in accordance with rules and adopted by the commissioner in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 . The commissioner shall appraise each domestic animal at its true market value at the time it is condemned, provided that no indemnity may be paid except as established in section 1757 or in state-federal cooperative eradication programs for domestic animals and in those amounts as set by those agreements. In no case may the combined amount received from salvage and state and federal indemnity exceed the amount of appraisal. [PL 2001, c. 572, §28 (AMD).]

Indemnity may not be paid on any domestic animals imported into the State if the importation was in violation of the laws of the State or rules in effect at the time of importation. [PL 2001, c. 572, §28 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2189 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 404 / Section 2189
7 §2189. Reciprocity
Status: in_force

If a nonresident applicant for a license holds a valid arborist license from another state or province, examination of the applicant may be waived by the department if the other state or province in which the applicant holds the license has qualification and examination requirements equivalent to those of this subchapter. If the requirements of the other state or province do not meet the standards set forth in this subchapter, the department may decide in which respects they are lacking and what requirements the applicant must meet for waiver of examination. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]

If a nonresident applicant for a license holds a valid certificate issued by the International Society of Arboriculture, or successor organization, examination of the applicant may also be waived by the department, providing the testing process of the International Society of Arboriculture or a successor organization does not drop below the standards set forth in this subchapter. [PL 2003, c. 343, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1305 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 201 / Section 1305
7 §1305. Application for license
Status: in_force

Application for a license as a dealer or as an agent must be made upon a form prescribed by the commissioner. The commissioner, if satisfied with the applicant's qualifications, shall issue a license entitling the applicant to act as a dealer or as an agent. An initial license may be issued for a period of less than one year or more than one year but not more than 2 years. All licenses expire on July 1st. All license renewals are for a period of one year. The annual license fee for a dealer is $25 and for each agent, $10. The fee for an initial license is prorated based on the number of months for which the license is valid. The commissioner shall issue a certificate of licensure to each licensed dealer and agent. The certificate must be carried in the motor vehicle used by the licensed dealer or agent when acting as a dealer or agent. The commissioner shall issue dealer plates to be attached to each motor vehicle or trailer used by a dealer for transporting livestock or poultry. Upon renewal of a license, the commissioner shall issue stickers bearing the year of licensure to be attached to the dealer plates. [PL 2001, c. 572, §6 (RPR).]
7 M.R.S. § 530-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 530-A
7 §530-A. Voluntary labeling
Status: in_force

1. Labeling permitted; rules. Beginning January 1, 2002, a label may be placed on any food, food product or food ingredient offered for sale in the State designating that food, food product or food ingredient as free of or made without recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology, genetic engineering or bioengineering. The department shall adopt rules implementing this subsection. The rules must allow any food 1% or less of which consists of genetically engineered ingredients to be labeled as free of genetically engineered ingredients. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 2001, c. 334, §1 (NEW).]

2. Department verification. The department may investigate a business operation that claims a food, food product or food ingredient sold in the State by the business operation is free of or made without recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology, genetic engineering or bioengineering for the purposes of verifying the claim. [PL 2001, c. 334, §1 (NEW).]

3. Misbranding. If a manufacturer, distributor, processor, wholesaler or retailer falsely labels or advertises any food, food product or food ingredient offered for sale in the State as free of or made without recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology, genetic engineering or bioengineering, the food, food product or food ingredient is misbranded in violation of section 488‑A . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §5 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 174 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6-A / Section 174
7 §174. Maine Mosquito Management Fund
Status: in_force

The Maine Mosquito Management Fund, referred to in this chapter as "the fund," is established to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The fund consists of any money received as contributions, grants or appropriations from private and public sources. The fund, to be accounted for within the department, must be held separate and apart from all other money, funds and accounts. Any balance remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year does not lapse but must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. The department may expend the money available in the fund and make grants to private landowners, groups, organizations, agencies, municipalities, counties, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and mosquito management districts formed pursuant to section 175 to carry out the purposes of this chapter. [PL 2013, c. 548, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2216 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 405-A / Section 2216
7 §2216. Violations
Status: in_force

Any violation of this chapter or rules adopted pursuant to section 2217 is a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 1991, c. 785, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3921 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 721 / Section 3921
7 §3921. License necessary
Status: in_force

A dog may not be kept within the limits of the State, unless the dog has been licensed by its owner or keeper in accordance with the laws of this State. [PL 1997, c. 690, §13 (AMD).]

Any law enforcement agency within the State, counties or municipalities owning dogs for law enforcement purposes shall be required to license the dogs in the municipality in which they are domiciled, but shall be exempt from any license or recording fee, provided that all other licensing requirements are fulfilled. [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 214-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 214-A
7 §214-A. Maine foods procurement program
Status: in_force

In accordance with this section, the commissioner shall establish and promote a Maine foods procurement program with the goal that, no later than 2025, 20% of all food and food products procured by state institutions are Maine food or food products. [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]

1. Institutional market development coordinator. The commissioner shall designate an employee of the department as an institutional market development coordinator to serve as a representative to assist in the development of connections between state purchasers, Maine food producers, distributors and other institutional stakeholders. [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]

2. Guidelines. The commissioner shall establish guidelines to assist state institutions to assess their ability to procure Maine foods and food products while minimizing costs for that procurement. [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]

3. Annual meeting. The institutional market development coordinator may convene an annual meeting that brings together Maine food producers and food service professionals to enhance opportunities for cooperation and expand the purchase of Maine foods and food products by state institutions. [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]

4. Advisory committee. The commissioner may establish an advisory committee to discuss strategies for expanding purchases of Maine foods and food products by state institutions. The advisory committee may be composed of representatives of state agencies, for-profit and nonprofit institutions and other relevant stakeholders identified by the commissioner. [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]

5. Report. The commissioner shall include a description of the progress toward reaching the goal under this section in the biennial report submitted to the Legislature pursuant to section 2, subsection 5 . [PL 2019, c. 677, §7 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 712 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 712
7 §712. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms shall have the following meanings. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §51 (AMD).]

1. Brand name. "Brand name" means a word, name, symbol or device, or any combination thereof, that identifies the commercial feed of a distributor or registrant and distinguishes it from that of others. [PL 2005, c. 512, §36 (AMD).]

2. Commercial feed. "Commercial feed" means all materials except unmixed seed, whole or processed, when not adulterated within the meaning of section 717, subsections 1 to 4 which are distributed for use as feed or for mixing in feed, provided that the commissioner by regulation may exempt from this definition, or from specific provisions of this Act, commodities such as hay, straw, stover, silage, cobs, husks, hulls and individual chemical compounds or substances when such commodities, compounds or substances are not intermixed or mixed with other materials, and are not adulterated within the meaning of section 717, subsection 1, paragraph A . [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

3. Contract feeder. "Contract feeder" means a person who, as an independent contractor, feeds commercial feed to animals pursuant to a contract whereby such commercial feed is supplied, furnished or otherwise provided to such person and whereby such person's remuneration is determined all or in part by feed consumption, mortality, profits or amount or quality of product. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

4. Customer-formula feed. "Customer-formula feed" means commercial feed which consists of a mixture of commercial feeds or feed ingredients or both, each batch of which is manufactured according to the specific instructions of the final purchaser. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

5. Distribute. "Distribute" means to offer for sale, sell, exchange or barter commercial feed; or to supply, furnish or otherwise provide commercial feed to a contract feeder. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

6. Distributor. The term "distributor" means any person who distributes. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

7. Drug. "Drug" means any article intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease in animals other than humans and articles other than feed intended to affect the structure or any function of the animal body. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §93 (COR).]

8. Feed ingredient. "Feed ingredient" means each of the constituent materials making up a commercial feed. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

8-A. Home-based manufacturer of pet food. "Home-based manufacturer of pet food" means a person who manufactures 10 or fewer product names in that person's home and sells the products directly to consumers. [PL 2007, c. 459, §1 (NEW).]

9. Label. "Label" means a display of written, printed or graphic matter upon or affixed to the container in which a commercial feed is distributed, or in the case of a bulk shipment the information shall accompany delivery. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

10. Labeling. "Labeling" means all labels and other written, printed or graphic matter upon a commercial feed or any of its containers or wrapper, or accompanying such commercial feed. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

11. Manufacture. "Manufacture" means to grind, mix or blend, or further process a commercial feed for distribution. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

12. Mineral feed. "Mineral feed" means a commercial feed intended to supply primarily mineral elements or inorganic nutrients. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

13. Official sample. "Official sample" means a sample of feed taken by the commissioner or the commissioner's agent in accordance with section 720, subsections 3 , 5 or 6 . [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §94 (COR).]

14. Percent. "Percent" or "percentages" means percentages by weights. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

15. Person. "Person" includes individual, partnership, corporation and association. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

16. Pet. "Pet" means any domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner thereof. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

17. Pet food. "Pet food" means any commercial feed prepared and distributed for consumption by pets. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

18. Product name. "Product name" means the name of the commercial feed that identifies it as to kind, class or specific use and distinguishes it from all other products bearing the same brand name. [PL 2005, c. 512, §37 (AMD).]

18-A. Specialty pet. "Specialty pet" means any domesticated animal pet normally maintained in a cage or tank, such as, but not limited to, gerbils, hamsters, canaries, psittacine birds, mynahs, finches, tropical fish, goldfish, snakes and turtles. [PL 1973, c. 43 (NEW).]

18-B. Specialty pet food. "Specialty pet food" means any commercial feed prepared and distributed for consumption by specialty pets. [PL 1973, c. 43 (NEW).]

19. Ton. "Ton" means a net weight of 2,000 pounds avoirdupois. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3155-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 611 / Section 3155-A
7 §3155-A. Predatory behavior of eligible marketing cooperative prohibited
Status: in_force

1. Violations. No eligible marketing cooperative may: A. Collect or attempt to collect from a Maine market dealer, directly or indirectly, all or any part of an over-order premium with respect to the milk of a Maine market producer who has not designated that cooperative to receive the over-order premium pursuant to section 3153, subsection 2, paragraph C ; [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).] B. Collect or attempt to collect from a Maine market dealer, directly or indirectly, any handling charge, fee or other payment in lieu of an over-order premium which the cooperative is barred from collecting under paragraph A ; [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).] C. Discriminate against any Maine market dealer making payments in accordance with section 3153, subsection 2, paragraph C , in the marketing of its members' milk based in whole or in part on the extent to which the dealer's producers have joined or refused to join the cooperative; or [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).] D. Collect or attempt to collect all or any part of an over-order premium from a Maine market dealer prior to determination of its eligibility or during any period for which its eligible status has been revoked by the commissioner. [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).]

2. Civil penalties. Each violation of this section is punishable by a civil penalty not to exceed $2,000 for a first violation and $5,000 for each subsequent violation, which penalties may be collected by the commissioner in a civil action. All penalties collected by the commissioner shall be paid to the Treasurer of State for deposit into the General Fund. [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).]

3. Injunctive relief. The Superior Court shall have jurisdiction upon complaint filed by the commissioner to restrain or enjoin any person from committing any act prohibited by subsection 1 or from violating any order or decision issued by the commissioner pursuant to subsection 4 . The commissioner shall not be required to post a bond when applying for an injunction under this subsection. [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).]

4. Administrative enforcement. When the commissioner, after such investigation as the commissioner determines appropriate, believes that a violation of this section has occurred, the commissioner may order the eligible marketing cooperative to cease that violation. In lieu of, or in addition to, such an order and notwithstanding Title 4, section 152, subsection 9 and Title 5, section 10051, subsection 1 , the commissioner may also revoke the eligible status of the cooperative for purposes of this chapter for a period not to exceed one year for a first violation, 2 years for a 2nd violation and permanently for a 3rd or subsequent violation. Before issuing such an order or revoking a cooperative's eligibility, the commissioner shall afford the cooperative an opportunity for a hearing. Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision issued under this subsection may obtain judicial review in Superior Court by filing a petition in accordance with Title 5, section 11001 and the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 80C. In responding to such a petition, the commissioner may seek enforcement of the order or decision, including civil penalties for any violation found, and the court, if it upholds the order or decision, may order its enforcement, including civil penalties. [PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §23 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]

Nothing in this section is intended to require that the commissioner take administrative enforcement action prior to seeking judicial relief for any violation of this section or is intended to limit the commissioner's ability to bring an independent action to enforce any decision or order issued by him, including civil penalties for any violation found by him. [PL 1987, c. 447, §12 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3947 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 725 / Section 3947
7 §3947. Animal control officers
Status: in_force

Each municipality shall appoint one or more animal control officers whose duties are enforcement of sections 3911 , 3912 , 3916 , 3921 , 3924 , 3948 , 3950 , 3950‑A , 3952‑A , 4041 and 4042 and Title 17, section 1023 , responding to reports of animals suspected of having rabies in accordance with Title 22, sections 1313 and 1313‑A and any other duties to control animals as the municipality may require. A municipality may appoint an employee of an animal shelter as an animal control officer as long as the person meets the qualifications and training requirements of this section. [PL 2019, c. 437, §2 (AMD).]

A municipality may not appoint a person to the position of animal control officer who has been convicted of murder, a Class A or Class B offense or a violation of Title 17‑A, chapter 9 , 11 , 12 or 13 or has been convicted of a criminal violation under Title 17, chapter 42 or has been adjudicated of a civil violation for cruelty to animals under chapter 739 or who has been convicted or adjudicated in any other state, provincial or federal court of a violation similar to those specified in this section. [PL 2007, c. 439, §26 (AMD).]

Animal control officers must be certified in accordance with section 3906‑B, subsection 4 . Upon initial appointment, an animal control officer must complete basic training and be certified by the commissioner within 6 months of appointment. [PL 2007, c. 439, §26 (AMD).]

An animal control officer must attend advanced training programs as described under section 3906‑B, subsection 4 to maintain certification. An animal control officer must have a minimum of 8 hours of training each year. [PL 2007, c. 439, §26 (NEW).]

Upon appointment of an animal control officer, municipal clerks shall notify the commissioner of the name, address and telephone number of the animal control officer within 10 business days. In the event the position is vacant upon termination or resignation of the animal control officer, the municipal clerk shall notify the commissioner within 10 business days of the vacancy. [PL 2009, c. 343, §20 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 954 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 954
7 §954. Sale without grading by grower
Status: in_force

No provisions of sections 951 to 957 shall be construed to prevent a grower or shipper of potatoes from selling or delivering the same within the State unpacked, or selling his crop in bulk, or any part thereof, to a packer for grading, packing or storage within the State; nor shall any provision of said sections prevent any person from manufacturing the same into any by-product, or from selling the same unpacked to any person actually engaged in the operation of a commercial by-products factory for the sole and express purpose of being used within the State in the manufacture of a by-product. [PL 1965, c. 219, §5 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 903 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 903
7 §903. Labeling containers
Status: in_force

A person may not sell or offer for sale in any place or serve in any hotel, restaurant or other public eating place any birch sugar, birch confection or candy or birch syrup or any product labeled or represented as such that is in any way combined, interfused or diluted with cane or other sugars or other substance without distinctly marking, stamping or labeling the article or the package containing cane or other sugars or other substance or the advertisement of or menu statement with an accurate and descriptive name of the article and, in the case of birch sugar and birch syrup, the percentage in which birch sugar or birch syrup enters into its composition. In the case of birch confection or candy, the ingredients must be listed in the order of the volume of each ingredient with the ingredient of greatest volume listed first. The words "birch," "birched" and "birching" and words of similar import, except as printed in the percentage statement, may not appear in any manner on the article in which a product of birch syrup is combined, interfused or diluted, unless the word "blend" appears immediately before, after, above or below and in equal prominence with the word "birch" or words of similar import, or unless the term "birch flavored" appears in similar fashion on the label. [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 631-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 631-A
7 §631-A. Official standards
Status: in_force

The commissioner may by rule establish official definitions and standards and sizes for grading or classifying, packaging and labeling eggs. [PL 2005, c. 512, §30 (AMD).]

The standards and sizes pursuant to this section may not be lower in their requirements than the minimum requirements and the official standards and sizes for corresponding grades or classifications as adopted by the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, commonly known as U.S. Grades. The commissioner may adopt by reference the United States standards, grades and weight classes for shell eggs as adopted by the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2005, c. 512, §30 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 422 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 422
7 §422. Purposes
Status: in_force

The purposes of this subchapter are: [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

1. Correlated marketing. To enable producers of agricultural commodities of this State, with the aid of the State, to more effectively correlate the marketing of their crops with market demands; [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

2. Uniform grading. To provide for uniform grading and proper preparation of agricultural commodities for market; [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

3. Development of markets. To provide methods and means for the development of new and larger markets for agricultural commodities grown within the State; [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

4. Orderly marketing. To establish orderly marketing and pricing of agricultural commodities grown within this State; and [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]

5. Elimination of economic waste. To eliminate or reduce economic waste in the marketing of agricultural commodities grown within the State. [PL 1981, c. 154, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 951-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 951-B
7 §951-B. Compliance with official standards
Status: in_force

To achieve compliance with official standards, the commissioner may adopt, consistent with this Article and with section 402 , a fee schedule for inspection of potatoes. The potato inspection fee schedule may provide for a lower inspection rate for any person who is packing potatoes in a Maine bag as defined by section 1032, subsection 3 . [PL 1981, c. 540, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1090 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 105 / Section 1090
7 §1090. Findings and purpose
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds and declares that the agricultural industry as a whole is of significant economic and social importance to the State of Maine. The Legislature further finds and declares that the agricultural industry is subject to unique financial difficulties. Such difficulties include instability of prices, the general inflexibility of demand for farm products, rising costs to producers, dealers and processors, and the vagaries of nature. [PL 1971, c. 428 (NEW).]

Such financial difficulties have a direct effect on a significant portion of the people of the State who are not directly involved in agricultural activities or industries. [PL 1971, c. 428 (NEW).]

The Legislature further finds and declares that the relationships between agricultural producers and dealers or processors are also unique. The normal labor relationship of employer and employee does not ordinarily apply in the agricultural industry. In view of these facts, the Legislature has determined that it is in the best interests of those engaged in agriculture and agriculturally related industry, and of the people of the entire State to regulate the relationship of producers to dealers and processors by encouraging and facilitating the formation and operation of cooperative agricultural marketing associations. The Legislature in enacting this legislation intends to exercise the police power of the State to benefit the health and welfare of the agricultural industry and the people of the State. [PL 1971, c. 544, §18-A (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 4210 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4210
7 §4210. Revocation of certification
Status: in_force

If the commissioner finds that a person certified to prepare nutrient management plans has failed to comply with section 4204, subsection 3 , the commissioner may revoke that person's certification in accordance with this section. [PL 1999, c. 530, §7 (NEW).]

1. Notice. The commissioner shall give written notice of a revocation immediately following a decision to revoke. A notice of revocation must state the reason the certification is being revoked and the effective date of the revocation and must inform the person of the hearing provisions under subsection 2 and the appeals process before the board. [PL 1999, c. 530, §7 (NEW).]

2. Hearing. A person receiving a notice of revocation under subsection 1 may request a hearing on that revocation. A request for a hearing must be in writing and must be made no later than 30 days after receipt of the revocation notice required under subsection 1 . The commissioner shall notify the person of the date and location of the hearing. A person may present evidence at a hearing that might justify reinstatement of the certification. [PL 1999, c. 530, §7 (NEW).]

3. Decisions; appeal. Decisions of the commissioner must be in writing. The commissioner may reinstate the certification if the commissioner finds that the person has complied with section 4204, subsection 3 . A person whose certification is revoked by the commissioner may appeal that decision to the board. [PL 1999, c. 530, §7 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2315 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 410 / Section 2315
7 §2315. The insurance fund; internal operations and management -- Article IV
Status: in_force

1. Governing board. The insurance fund is administered by a governing board and an executive committee as provided. The actions of the governing board and the executive committee pursuant to this compact are deemed the actions of the insurance fund. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

2. Votes. The members of the governing board are entitled to one vote each on the board. Actions of the governing board are not binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of the total number of votes of the governing board are cast in favor thereof. Action of the governing board may be taken only at a meeting at which a majority of the members are present. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

3. Seal. The insurance fund has a seal that may be employed as an official symbol and that may be affixed to documents and otherwise used as the governing board provides. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

4. Officers. The governing board shall elect annually, from among its members, a chair, a vice-chair, a secretary and a treasurer. The chair may not hold successive terms. The governing board may appoint an executive director and fix the executive director's duties and compensation, if any. The executive director serves at the pleasure of the governing board. The governing board shall make provision for the bonding of the officers and employees of the insurance fund as appropriate. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

5. Personnel. Irrespective of the civil service, personnel or other merit system laws of any of the party states, the executive director or, if there is no executive director, the chair, in accordance with such procedures as the bylaws may provide, shall appoint, remove or discharge personnel as is necessary for the performance of the functions of the insurance fund and shall fix the duties and compensation of such personnel. The governing board, in its bylaws, shall provide for the personnel policies and programs of the insurance fund. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

6. Other personnel. The governing board may borrow, accept or contract for the services of personnel from any state, the United States or any other governmental agency, or from any person, firm, association or corporation. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

7. Grants and donations. The governing board may accept, for any of its purposes and functions under this compact, any and all donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials and services, conditional or otherwise, from any state, the United States or any other governmental agency, or from any person, firm, association or corporation, and may receive, utilize and dispose of the same. Any donation, gift or grant accepted by the governing board pursuant to this subsection or services borrowed pursuant to subsection 6 must be reported in the annual report of the insurance fund. The annual report must include the nature, amount and any conditions of the donation, gift, grant or services borrowed and the identity of the donor or lender. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

8. Bylaws. The governing board shall adopt bylaws for the conduct of the business of the insurance fund and has the power to amend and rescind those bylaws. The governing board shall publish its bylaws in convenient form and shall file a copy thereof and a copy of any amendment thereto with the appropriate agency or officer in each of the party states. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

9. Report. The governing board annually shall make to the governor and legislature of each party state a report covering the activities of the insurance fund for the preceding year. The governing board may make additional reports it considers desirable. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]

10. Other powers. In addition to the powers and duties specifically authorized and imposed, the governing board may do other things necessary and incidental to the conduct of its affairs pursuant to this compact. [PL 2005, c. 147, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 717 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 717
7 §717. Adulteration
Status: in_force

1. Conditions deemed adulteration. A commercial feed shall be deemed to be adulterated: A. If it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health, but in case the substance is not an added substance, such commercial feed shall not be considered adulterated under this subsection if the quantity of such substance in such commercial feed does not ordinarily render it injurious to health; or [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).] B. If it bears or contains any added poisonous, added deleterious or added nonnutritive substance which is unsafe within the meaning of section 406 of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (other than one which is a pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity, or a food additive); or [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).] C. If it is, or it bears or contains any food additive which is unsafe within the meaning of section 409 of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act; or [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).] D. If it is a raw agricultural commodity and it bears or contains a pesticide chemical which is unsafe within the meaning of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, section 408(a); provided that where a pesticide chemical has been used in or on a raw agricultural commodity in conformity with an exemption granted or a tolerance prescribed under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, section 408, and such raw agricultural commodity has been subjected to processing such as canning, cooking, freezing, dehydrating or milling, the residue of such pesticide chemical remaining in or on such processed feed shall not be deemed unsafe if such residue in or on the raw agricultural commodity has been removed to the extent possible in good manufacturing practice and the concentration of such residue in the processed feed is not greater than the tolerance prescribed for the raw agricultural commodity unless the feeding of such processed feed will result or is likely to result in a pesticide residue in the edible product of the animal, which is unsafe within the meaning of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, section 408(a). [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §52 (AMD).] [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §52 (AMD).]

2. Valuable constituent omitted. If any valuable constituent has been in whole or in part omitted or abstracted therefrom or any less valuable substance substituted therefor; [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

3. Composition or greatly differs from labeling. If its composition or quality falls below or differs from that which it is purported or is represented to possess by its labeling; [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]

4. Contains drug but does not conform to regulations. If it contains a drug and the methods used in or the facilities or controls used for its manufacture, processing or packaging do not conform to current good manufacturing practice regulations promulgated by the commissioner to assure that the drug meets the requirement of this Act as to safety and has the identity and strength and meets the quality and purity characteristics that it purports or is represented to possess. In promulgating such regulations, the commissioner shall adopt the current good manufacturing practice regulations for medicated feed premixes and for medicated feeds established under authority of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, unless the commissioner determines that they are not appropriate to the conditions that exist in this State; [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §96 (COR).]

5. Contains viable weed seed over limits. If it contains viable weed seeds in amounts exceeding the limits which the commissioner shall establish by rule or regulation. [PL 1971, c. 77, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2422 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 415 / Section 2422
7 §2422. Expenditures from fund; distribution
Status: in_force

Funds in the Maine Pesticide Education Fund must be distributed by the department as follows: [PL 2007, c. 302, §1 (NEW).]

1. Integrated Pest Management Fund. Three percent of the money in the fund to the Integrated Pest Management Fund established under section 2405 ; [PL 2007, c. 302, §1 (NEW).]

2. Pesticide education and pesticide pick-up program. Forty-seven percent of the money in the fund to the Board of Pesticides Control for pesticide education programs, applicator licensing and obsolete pesticide collection programs; and [PL 2007, c. 302, §1 (NEW).]

3. Pest management education. Fifty percent of the money in the fund to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension for pest management and pesticide education programs, including, but not limited to, homeowner integrated pest management, school pest management, medical and veterinary facility pest management, pesticide application and use education and community health-related pest management programs. [PL 2007, c. 302, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3942 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 725 / Section 3942
7 §3942. Issuance of dog licenses
Status: in_force

Municipal clerks shall issue dog licenses in accordance with chapter 721 , receive the license fees and pay to the department $10 for dogs capable of producing young and $3 from each license fee received for dogs incapable of producing young. The clerks shall keep a record of all licenses issued by them, with the names of the owners or keepers of dogs licensed and the sex, registered numbers and description of all dogs except those covered by a kennel license and whether the dogs have been determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be dangerous dogs or nuisance dogs. The clerks shall make a monthly report to the department on a department-approved form of all dog licenses issued and fees received. [PL 2017, c. 404, §8 (AMD).]

The clerk shall retain $1 from each license fee as a recording fee. The clerk shall deposit $2 from each license for a dog incapable of producing young in the municipality's animal welfare account established in accordance with section 3945 . [PL 2003, c. 405, §20 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 176 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6-A / Section 176
7 §176. Rules
Status: in_force

The commissioner may adopt rules to carry out the purposes of this chapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are major substantive rules as described in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2013, c. 548, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 159 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 159
7 §159. Agricultural Complaint Response Fund
Status: in_force

There is established the nonlapsing Agricultural Complaint Response Fund. The commissioner may accept from any source funds designated to be placed in the fund. The commissioner may authorize expenses from the fund as necessary to investigate complaints involving a farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation and to abate conditions potentially resulting from farms, farm operations or agricultural composting operations. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 320-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 10-C / Section 320-A
7 §320-A.  Agriculture, food system and forest products infrastructure investment
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Food system" means all processes, infrastructure and persons involved in feeding a population, including growing, harvesting, collecting, processing, manufacturing, packaging, transporting, marketing, selling, consuming and disposing of food and food-related items in the State. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] B. "Infrastructure" means property, equipment, networks and supporting services associated with the production, harvesting, processing, manufacturing, storage, packaging, transporting, marketing, sales and disposal of food. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] C. "Producer" means a person in the State that grows, manufactures, harvests or otherwise creates agricultural, food or forest products and value-added products, including a person engaged in farming, harvesting or other agricultural and forestry manufacturing activities. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] D. "Supply chain" means the chain of distribution by which agricultural, food and forest products are moved from the producer to the consumer and may include intermediate entities, including aggregators of various products, manufacturers, value-added producers, processors, packagers, warehouse operators and other storage entities, distributors, wholesalers and retailers. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] E. "Value-added" means changing the physical state or form of a product through processing or manufacturing to enhance or increase the product's value, including making the product suitable to generate renewable energy. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).]

2. Goals; investment; inclusiveness. The commissioner, in coordination with the Department of Economic and Community Development, industry stakeholders, representatives of Indian tribes, communities of color and other underserved communities and populations and other relevant agencies, shall: A. Strengthen the State's agricultural, food and forest products economy with a priority of making resulting efforts more inclusive of and increasing investments in historically marginalized, underrepresented and underserved communities, including communities of color, low-income communities and rural communities that typically lack access to capital to start, sustain, scale and innovate businesses; [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] B. Expand infrastructure investments in the agricultural, food and forest products economy to increase access to new markets and opportunities for producers, processors, small businesses and consumers in the State in the producing, processing, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, marketing, sale and consumption of products; and [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] C. Collaborate with other state agencies, economic development organizations and other key institutional partners to establish technical assistance programs to support the objectives of this chapter. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).]

3. Powers. In carrying out the purposes of this chapter, the commissioner may: A. Hire or assign staff or contractors, including community development financial institutions, economic development organizations, quasi-governmental entities or other capital or technical assistance providers; [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] B. Seek and accept funds from public and private sources; and [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] C. Administer funds, grants and programs. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3919-D — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 720 / Section 3919-D
7 §3919-D. Temporary animal shelter
Status: in_force

The department may temporarily impound animals within an enclosure other than a licensed animal shelter, and such an enclosure constitutes a temporary animal shelter. When animals are held at a temporary animal shelter for more than 21 days, the shelter must comply with the standards established by the department for licensed animal shelters. [PL 2007, c. 702, §7 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 161 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 161
7 §161. Rules
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall adopt rules in accordance with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act to interpret and implement this chapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3972 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 731 / Section 3972
7 §3972. Unlawful use of animals
Status: in_force

1. Unlawful use of animals. It is unlawful for any person to: A. Sell, display, raffle, give away or offer for sale within the State any live animals that have been dyed or otherwise artificially colored; [PL 1997, c. 690, §39 (AMD).] B. Sell, display, raffle, give away or offer for sale to the public any live fowl, turtles or rabbits under 8 weeks of age in lots of less than 2; [PL 2017, c. 131, §1 (AMD).] C. Use any live animal as a premium, fund-raising device, prize or award or use any live animal in a raffle, contest, game or promotion except as authorized by law or rule; [PL 1997, c. 690, §39 (AMD).] D. Use any live animal as bait in any racing contest or in the training of animals for racing contests; [PL 1995, c. 144, §1 (AMD).] E. Tie, tether or restrain any animal in a manner that is inhumane or detrimental to its welfare; [PL 2015, c. 223, §12 (AMD).] F. Intentionally cause an equine to fall or lose its balance by any means whatsoever. For the purposes of this paragraph, the term "equine" means, but is not limited to, a horse, mare, pony, ass, donkey, burro, mule or hinny. This paragraph does not apply to the lawful laying down of an equine for medical or identification purposes; or [PL 2015, c. 223, §13 (AMD).] G. Abandon, dump or dispose of any deceased domesticated animal on public property or on private property without the permission of the property owner. [PL 2015, c. 223, §14 (NEW).] [PL 2017, c. 131, §1 (AMD).]

2. Violation. Any person who makes unlawful use of animals contrary to this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $100 may be adjudged. For the purposes of this section, "animal" does not include lobsters or shellfish. [PL 1989, c. 342, §2 (AMD).]

3. Construction. Nothing in this section may be construed to apply to any animal to be used or raised for agriculture, aquaculture or fishing, to any dog to be used or raised for hunting or exhibition purposes, by persons with proper facilities otherwise authorized by law, or to games using animals in which the participating animal is not caused, directly or indirectly, to perform any act that deviates from the animal's natural behavior provided that the game is conducted by an educational or cultural institution or other nonprofit service organization. [PL 1989, c. 342, §2 (AMD).]

4. Exception. Notwithstanding subsection 1, paragraph C , livestock may be raffled by charitable organizations in accordance with Title 17, section 1837‑A for fund-raising purposes. For the purposes of this section, "charitable organization" has the same meaning as defined in Title 9, section 5003, subsection 1 . Proceeds from a raffle under this subsection must be used for charitable purposes. The animal must be awarded in freezer-ready form. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. KKKKK, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3932-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 723 / Section 3932-A
7 §3932-A. Animal shelters
Status: in_force

1. License necessary. A person operating an animal shelter as defined in section 3907 shall obtain a license from the department and is subject to rules adopted by the department. The license expires December 31st annually or in a manner consistent with the license provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, whichever is later. [PL 1993, c. 657, §33 (NEW).]

2. License fee. The license fee for an animal shelter is $125. [PL 2025, c. 414, §10 (AMD).]

3. Temporary placement. Facilities where animals are temporarily placed by the department are exempt from licensing requirements. [PL 2007, c. 439, §19 (NEW).]

4. Conditional animal shelter license. [PL 2015, c. 223, §8 (RP).]
7 M.R.S. § 607 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 607
7 §607. Registration
Status: in_force

1. Conditions requiring registration. A pesticide may not be distributed in this State unless it is registered with the board in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter, except that registration is not required if: A. A pesticide is shipped from one plant or warehouse to another plant or warehouse operated by the same person and is used solely at that plant or warehouse as a constituent part to make a pesticide that is registered under the provisions of this subchapter; or [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] B. A pesticide is distributed under the provisions of an experimental use permit issued by EPA. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

2. Contents of statement made by applicant. The applicant for registration shall file a statement with the board, which must include: A. The name and address of the applicant and the name and address of the person whose name will appear on the label, if other than applicant's; [PL 1975, c. 382, §3 (NEW).] B. The name of the pesticide; [PL 1975, c. 382, §3 (NEW).] C. Other necessary information required by the board; and [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).] D. A complete copy of the labeling accompanying the pesticide and a statement of all claims to be made for it, including the directions for use and the use classification as provided for in FIFRA. [PL 1975, c. 382, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

3. Submission of formula. The board, when it determines it necessary in the administration of this subchapter, may require the submission of the complete formula of any pesticide, including the active and inert ingredients. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

4. Test results. The board may require a full description of all tests made and the results of those tests on any pesticide not registered pursuant to FIFRA, Section 3 or on any pesticide on which restrictions are being considered by the board. In the case of renewal of registration, the board may require a statement only with respect to test result information that is different from that furnished when the pesticide was registered or last reregistered. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

5. Power to require other information. The board may by rules adopted under section 610 require the submission of other necessary information. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

5-A. Confidentiality. Notwithstanding Title 1, section 402 , data submitted pursuant to subsections 3, 4 and 5 that have been determined confidential by the Administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with 7 United States Code, Section 136h (2007) are confidential and may not be available for public inspection. [PL 2007, c. 597, §8 (AMD).]

6. Registration fee; programs funded. The applicant desiring to register a pesticide must pay an annual registration fee of $215 for each pesticide registered for that applicant. Annual registration periods expire on December 31st or in a manner consistent with Title 5, section 10002 , whichever is later. The board shall monitor fee revenue and expenditures under this subsection to ensure that adequate funds are available to fund board and related department programs and, to the extent funds are available, to provide grants to support stewardship programs. The board shall use funds received under this subsection to provide: A. An annual grant of no less than $135,000 to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, on or about April 1st, for development and implementation of integrated pest management programs; [PL 2019, c. 243, §1 (AMD).] B. Funding for public health-related mosquito monitoring programs or other pesticide stewardship and integrated pest management programs, if designated at the discretion of the board, as funds allow after expenditures under paragraph A . The board may seek the advice of the Integrated Pest Management Council established in section 2404 in determining the most beneficial use of the funds, if available, under this subsection; and [PL 2019, c. 243, §1 (AMD).] C. An annual grant of not less than $65,000 to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, on or about April 1st, for the development and revision of training manuals for applicator certification, licensing and recertification and to perform other aspects of pesticide education programs. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension may seek the advice of the board in establishing the pesticide education programs and shall submit an annual report on the use of the funds under this paragraph, no later than January 15th, to the board and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over pesticide education and certification matters. [PL 2019, c. 243, §1 (NEW).] The University of Maine may not charge overhead costs against grants under this subsection. By February 15th annually, the board shall submit a report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture, conservation and forestry matters detailing the grants funded by the fee under this subsection. The annual report must include a recommendation by the board as to whether the amount of the fee is adequate to fund the programs described in this subsection. The joint standing committee may report out a bill to the Legislature based on the board's recommendations. [PL 2023, c. 22, §1 (AMD).]

7. Renewal of registration. Registrations must be renewed annually prior to January 1st. The board shall mail forms for reregistration to registrants at least 30 days prior to the due date. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]

8. Approval of application for registration. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (RP).]

8-A. Approval of application for registration. The processing of an application for registration is governed by this subsection. A. The board shall consider the required information set forth under subsections 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 and shall register a pesticide if it determines that: (1) Its composition warrants the proposed claims for it; (2) Its labeling and other material required to be submitted comply with the requirements of this subchapter; (3) It will perform its intended function without unreasonable adverse effects on the environment; (4) When used in accordance with widespread and commonly recognized practice, it will not generally cause unreasonable adverse effects on the environment; and (5) A need for the pesticide exists. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] B. If, within 180 days from the date the completed application for registration is submitted, the board fails to act upon an application for registration of a pesticide that has been certified by EPA, the pesticide is deemed registered under this chapter unless the board issues a written statement containing the reasons for the failure to act upon the application. The statement of the board is deemed a refusal to register pursuant to section 609 . [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] C. Paragraphs A and B do not apply if the registrant fails to provide any information required to be submitted under this subchapter or does not provide other information requested by the board in order to determine whether the pesticide should be registered. Nothing in this paragraph affects the rights of the board to make further inquiry regarding the registration of a pesticide or to refuse reregistration, to suspend or revoke registration or to otherwise restrict or condition the use of pesticides in order to protect public health and the environment. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] D. Prior to registering a pesticide for a special local need, the board shall classify the uses of the pesticide for general or restricted use in conformity with FIFRA, Section 3(d). The board may not make any lack of essentiality a criterion for denying registration of any pesticide. When 2 pesticides meet the requirements of this paragraph, the board may not register one in preference to the other. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] E. The board may establish such other requirements by rule in accordance with section 610 as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this subsection. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (NEW).]

9. Adverse environmental effects. If, at any time after the registration of a pesticide, the registrant has additional factual information regarding unreasonable adverse effects of a pesticide on the environment, the registrant shall submit that information to the board. [PL 2005, c. 620, §6 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 153 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 153
7 §153. Farm; farm operation or agricultural composting operation not a nuisance
Status: in_force

A farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation may not be considered a public or private nuisance under Title 17, chapter 91 if the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation alleged to be a nuisance is in compliance with applicable state and federal laws, rules and regulations and: [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

1. Farm; farm operation; agricultural composting operation. The farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation conforms to best management practices, as determined by the commissioner in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 ; [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

2. Storage or use of farm nutrients; complaints. For complaints regarding the storage or use of farm nutrients as defined in section 4201, subsection 4 , the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation has implemented a nutrient management plan developed in accordance with section 4204 and operation of the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation is consistent with the nutrient management plan; or [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

3. Change in land use; occupancy of land. The farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation existed before a change in the land use or occupancy of land within one mile of the boundaries of the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation as long as, before the change in land use or occupancy, the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation would not have been considered a nuisance. This subsection does not apply to a farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation that materially changes the conditions or nature of the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation after a change in the land use or occupancy of land within one mile of the boundaries of the farm, farm operation or agricultural composting operation. Nothing in this subsection affects the applicability of any of the other provisions of this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 53-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 53-B
7 §53-B. Registration in 1990 and 1991
Status: in_force

An owner of land may register any designated portion of that land that qualifies as farmland under this chapter as follows. [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

1. Registration dates. Registration must occur between June 1st and June 15th of 1990 or 1991. [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

2. Place of registration. Registration must occur in the office of the municipality in which the land is located. In the event there is no official municipal office, the registration must take place with the town assessor. In the event the farmland is located in the unorganized territory, the registration must take place in the office of the county in which the land is located. [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

3. Effective date. A registration takes effect 15 days after receipt of notice by the municipality and abutting owners. If review proceedings are initiated under section 54 , the registration is effective when upheld by the municipality. [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

4. Duration. A registration made under this chapter within the time frame provided under subsection 1 that has not been withdrawn in accordance with section 53‑E remains in effect until April 1, 2013. To maintain registration under this chapter after April 1, 2013, a landowner must initially renew registration of the farmland in accordance with subsection 6 and every 5 years thereafter in accordance with section 53‑I, subsection 4 . [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

5. Registry of deeds. A copy of the municipal or county registration and any withdrawal bearing the certification of a notary public that the copy is a true and accurate copy must be recorded in the registry of deeds of the county in which the registered farmland or any abutting property is located, and must be indexed in the Grantor index under the entry "Farmland" and filed under "F." [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (AMD).]

6. Renewal. To renew a registration of farmland that was registered within the time frame provided under subsection 1 , the landowner must submit to the department a copy of the notarized registration recorded with the registry of deeds under subsection 5 and comply with the renewal requirements under section 53‑I, subsection 4 . A landowner who is unable to demonstrate compliance with all registration requirements under this section may apply for registration under section 53‑I but after April 1, 2013 is no longer protected from inconsistent development under section 56, subsection 1 . [PL 2011, c. 608, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 4012 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 739 / Section 4012
7 §4012. Cruelty to birds
Status: in_force

1. Cruelty to birds. A person is guilty of cruelty to birds if that person: A. Keeps or uses any live pigeon, fowl or other bird for a target or to be shot at, either for amusement or as a test of skill in marksmanship; [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] B. Shoots at any bird or is present as a party, umpire or judge at a shooting; or [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).] C. Rents any building, shed, room, yard, field or premises or knowingly allows the use of the same for the purposes of paragraphs A and B. [PL 1997, c. 690, §45 (AMD).] [PL 1997, c. 690, §45 (AMD).]

2. Construction. This section may not be construed to prohibit the shooting of wild game in its wild state or the shooting of birds at field trials under the supervision of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in accordance with Title 12, chapter 915, subchapter 13 . [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §16 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Affirmative defense. It is an affirmative defense to this section that the conduct involved the use of live animals in the training of other animals in accordance with the laws of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Title 12, Part 13. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §16 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 320-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 10-C / Section 320-B
7 §320-B. Maine Agriculture, Food and Forest Products Investment Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. The Maine Agriculture, Food and Forest Products Investment Fund, referred to in this chapter as "the fund," is established and administered by the department to support public-private partnerships to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The fund consists of money appropriated to the fund or received from any other private or public source. Interest in investment of money of the fund is credited to the fund. Unexpended balances at the end of the fiscal year do not lapse but carry over into the next fiscal year. The Maine Agriculture, Food System and Forest Products Infrastructure Investment Advisory Board established in section 320‑C shall oversee and determine expenditures from the fund. [PL 2021, c. 483, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 442 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 442
7 §442. Hearings
Status: in_force

The commissioner may establish and promulgate official grades and standards for farm products, excepting dairy products produced within the State for the purposes of sale, and may from time to time amend or modify such grades and standards. Before establishing, amending or modifying any such grades or standards, the said commissioner shall hold public hearings in such places within the State as shall be most convenient to producers of the commodity under consideration. Notice of such hearings shall be provided in the manner specified in the Maine Administrative Procedure Act and shall further be provided in a newspaper or newspapers of general circulation within the county where the hearing is to be held. [PL 1977, c. 694, §47 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 610 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 610
7 §610. Determinations; rules; restricted use pesticides; uniformity
Status: in_force

1. Determinations. The board may by rule: A. Declare as a pest any form of plant or animal life, except viruses, bacteria or other microorganisms on or in living human beings or other living animals, that is injurious to health or the environment; [RR 2005, c. 2, §8 (COR).] B. Determine whether pesticides registered under the authority of FIFRA, Section 24(c) are highly toxic to human beings. [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] C. Determine whether pesticides or quantities of substances contained in pesticides are injurious to the environment. The board must be guided by EPA regulations in this determination; and [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] D. Require any pesticide to be colored or discolored if it determines that such a requirement is feasible and is necessary for the protection of health and the environment. [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] [RR 2005, c. 2, §8 (COR).]

2. Rule-making powers. The board may adopt other rules that it determines necessary to carry out the provisions of this subchapter. The board's rule-making authority includes, but is not limited to, rules: A. Providing for the collection, examination and reporting of samples of pesticides or devices; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] B. Providing for the safe handling, transportation, storage, display, distribution and disposal of pesticides and their containers; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] C. Establishing requirements of all pesticides required to be registered under provisions of this subchapter, provided that such rules do not impose any requirements for federally registered labels in addition to or different from those required pursuant to FIFRA; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] D. Specifying classes of devices that are subject to the provisions of section 605, subsection 1 ; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).] E. Governing pesticide application, including, but not limited to, rules: (1) Designed to minimize pesticide drift to the maximum extent practicable under currently available technology; (2) Prescribing procedures to be used for the application of pesticides, including the time, place, manner and method of that application; (3) Restricting or prohibiting the use of pesticides in designated areas or during specified periods of time; and (4) Prescribing tolerance levels for pesticide residues in off-target areas; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).] F. Prescribing the submission of information necessary for the board to undertake its responsibilities under this subchapter; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).] G. Prescribing requirements as necessary to carry out the provisions of section 607 ; [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).] H. Governing the registration and the cancellation and suspension of registration of pesticides pursuant to section 609 ; and [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).] I. For the purpose of achieving uniformity of requirements between the states and the Federal Government, provided the rules are in conformity with the primary pesticide standards, particularly as to labeling, registration requirements and criteria for classifying pesticides for restricted use, as established by EPA or other federal or state agencies. [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (AMD).]

3. Uniformity of requirements; restricted uses. [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (RP).]

4. Designation of rules. Rules adopted under this subchapter are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A unless otherwise specified or designated in accordance with subsection 5 . [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).]

5. Review of regulatory agenda; designation as major substantive rules. Notwithstanding Title 5, section 8060, subsection 2 , the due date for the submission of a regulatory agenda by the board under section 8060 is January 15th. The board shall annually submit a regulatory agenda complying with Title 5, section 8060, subsection 1 to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over pesticides regulation. The legislative committee of jurisdiction shall complete its review of the board's regulatory agenda no later than February 15th of each year. The committee may report out legislation no later than February 20th to designate any rule on the board's regulatory agenda as a major substantive rule subject to legislative review under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2005, c. 620, §10 (NEW).]

6. Major substantive rules. Rules proposed for adoption by the board after July 1, 2007 that pertain to topics specified in paragraphs A to E are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Rules in effect on July 1, 2007 that pertain to topics specified in paragraphs A to E continue in effect, except that proposed amendments to those rules are major substantive rules and must be reviewed and approved prior to final adoption in accordance with Title 5, section 8072 . Rules proposed for adoption by the board after March 1, 2008 that pertain to topics specified in paragraphs F and G are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Rules in effect on March 1, 2008 that pertain to topics specified in paragraph G continue in effect, except that proposed amendments to those rules are major substantive rules and must be reviewed and approved prior to final adoption in accordance with Title 5, section 8072 . Topics governed by this subsection are: A. Drift from outside spraying; [PL 2007, c. 145, §1 (NEW).] B. Notification requirements for outside spraying; [PL 2007, c. 145, §1 (NEW).] C. Pesticides applications in occupied buildings; [PL 2007, c. 145, §1 (NEW).] D. A notification registry for indoor applications of pesticides; [PL 2007, c. 484, §2 (AMD).] E. Buffers from shorelines for broadcast applications of pesticides; [PL 2007, c. 484, §2 (AMD).] F. Use of organophosphate pesticides adjacent to occupied areas; and [PL 2007, c. 484, §2 (NEW).] G. Distribution and use of plant-incorporated protectants. [PL 2007, c. 484, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 484, §2 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1034 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1034
7 §1034. Inspection
Status: in_force

The Maine Potato Board may employ inspectors and may require payments for inspection at a rate and schedule to be established by rule by the commissioner. The commissioner shall develop proposed rules. [PL 2005, c. 683, Pt. A, §11 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 893 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 893
7 §893. Labeling of maple syrup
Status: in_force

All containers of maple syrup sold or offered for sale for human consumption by any person, partnership, association, firm or corporation shall be labeled with the grade, the volume, name and address of the producer or packer, together with the producer's or packer's seal in such form as approved by the commissioner on the cap of the container which must be so affixed that the container cannot be opened until such seal is broken. Any marking which indicates pure Maine maple syrup shall be used exclusively upon pure maple syrup produced within the State of Maine and which has not been bleached or lightened in color by artificial means. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §57 (AMD).]

The words "Maine Maple" shall not be used alone or in combinations with other words on a label or container to designate the flavor of the contents unless all of the maple flavoring of the contents is a pure maple, produced in this State. [PL 1967, c. 104 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1705 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 301 / Section 1705
7 §1705. Expenses
Status: in_force

The actual and necessary traveling expenses of the commissioner and the commissioner's employees, any and all expense of prevention, control and eradication of disease, destroying diseased animals and those exposed to disease, and paying for the same, and all other expenses necessary to properly carry out chapters 201 , 207 , 301 , 303 and 305 must be paid out of such amounts as the Legislature may appropriate. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §125 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 1028 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1028
7 §1028. Violations
Status: in_force

Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this Article, except section 1017, subsection 1, paragraph B , or shall neglect or refuse to comply with the provisions thereof or any rule or regulation promulgated hereunder shall be subject to the following civil penalties payable to the State to be recovered in a civil action: [PL 1977, c. 696, §86 (RPR).]

1. First violation. For the first violation, a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000; and [PL 1977, c. 696, §86 (NEW).]

2. Subsequent violation. For each subsequent violation, a civil penalty not to exceed $2,000. [PL 1977, c. 696, §86 (NEW).]

Each day a violation under this section remains uncorrected may be counted as a separate offense. Penalties may be imposed for each violation. [PL 2005, c. 333, §6 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 9 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 9
7 §9. Cooperative agreements
Status: in_force

The commissioner may enter into agreements or cooperative arrangements with a state or federal agency or with any person, firm or corporation for the purpose of controlling diseases of plants and domestic animals, advertising and increasing the sale and consumption of Maine food products or disseminating information concerning the grade, quality or condition of same, and supplying inspection and grading services with respect to such food products. The commissioner may receive, administer and disburse any funds or contributions from such state or federal agency, person, firm or corporation, either independently or in conjunction with state funds allocated to said purpose. Funds so contributed do not lapse at the end of any fiscal year but are carried forward to be used for the purpose originally intended. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §54 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 3941 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 725 / Section 3941
7 §3941. Posting of law
Status: in_force

Municipal clerks, annually, at least 20 days before January 1st, shall post copies of chapter 721 and this chapter in the municipal offices. [PL 2007, c. 439, §25 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 1-B
7 §1-B. Preservation of rural life and values; joint responsibility
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds there has been a dramatic increase of interest in rural living and small and part-time farming; that a high proportion of the population in rural areas is poor, elderly and underemployed; agriculture is significant to the State's economy and that a prospering, stable rural community contributes to the rural quality of life, the preservation of productive farm, farmlands and open space. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (COR).]

The Legislature finds that programs that improve the employment opportunity, rural skills, food supply, health and nutrition of the rural people of Maine will improve the economy of Maine and improve the rural quality of life and the health of people and are therefore in the public interest. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (COR).]

The Legislature further finds the preservation of rural life and values in the State to be the joint responsibility of all public agencies, local, state and federal, whose policies and programs substantially impact the economy and general welfare of people who reside in rural Maine, such as the development and implementation of programs that assist in the maintenance of family farms, provide specialized opportunities for education and technical training and improve health and nutrition. The state agencies in addition to the department include, but are not limited to, the Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (COR); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (REV); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 351 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1-B / Chapter 13 / Section 351
7 §351. Agricultural Water Management and Irrigation Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund; established. The Agricultural Water Management and Irrigation Fund, referred to in this chapter as "the fund," is established as a nonlapsing fund in the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. The commissioner may accept money for the fund from any public or private source and make expenditures from the fund for the purpose of improving the use of irrigation in agriculture and the use of water resources in animal agriculture. [PL 2005, c. 150, §2 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

2. Administration. The commissioner shall administer the fund. [PL 2005, c. 150, §2 (NEW).]

3. Rulemaking. The commissioner shall adopt rules to carry out the purposes of this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A. [PL 2005, c. 150, §2 (NEW).]

4. Report. The commissioner shall submit an annual report on March 1st to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agricultural matters. The report must include a summary of money available in the fund, the use of the fund and the status of agricultural irrigation in the State. [PL 2005, c. 150, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 905 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 905
7 §905. Violations
Status: in_force

A person who violates any of the provisions of this subchapter commits a civil violation for which the following fines may be adjudged: [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]

1. First violation. For the first violation, a fine not to exceed $100; and [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]

2. Subsequent violations. For each subsequent violation, a fine not to exceed $200. [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2903-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 601 / Section 2903-B
7 §2903-B. Testing of samples for resolving disputed test results
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall develop a process for obtaining and testing a sample of milk when a milk producer disputes the result of a test or a component analysis performed by an employee of a milk plant that is used to determine acceptance of milk by the milk plant or payment to the milk producer. [PL 1999, c. 618, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1042 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 1042
7 §1042. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms shall have the following meanings. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. A, §65 (AMD).]

1. Advertisement. "Advertisement" means all representations, other than those on the label, disseminated in any manner or by any means, relating to seed within the meaning of this subchapter.

2. Agricultural seeds. "Agricultural seeds" shall include the seeds of grass, forage, cereal and fiber crops and any other kinds of seeds commonly recognized within this State as agricultural or field seeds, and mixtures of such seeds, except seeds of cereals grown in Maine and sold directly from grower to grower and not labeled as seed.

3. Labeling. "Labeling" includes all labels and other written, printed or graphic representations, in any form whatsoever, accompanying and pertaining to any seed whether in bulk or in containers, and includes invoices.

4. Noxious-weed seeds. "Noxious-weed seeds" must be divided into 2 classes, primary noxious-weed seeds and secondary noxious-weed seeds. The commissioner may, through promulgation of regulations, add to or subtract from the list of seeds included under either definition whenever the commissioner finds, after public hearing, that such additions or subtractions are within the respective definitions. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §120 (COR).]

5. Person. "Person" shall include any individual, partnership, corporation, company, society or association.

6. Primary noxious-weed seeds. "Primary noxious-weed seeds" are the seeds of perennial weeds such as not only reproduce by seed, but also spread by underground roots or stems, and which, when established, are highly destructive and difficult to control by ordinary good cultural practice. In this State they are the seeds of Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Quackgrass (Agropyron repens), Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Nut Grass (Cyperus esculentus) and Wound Wort (Stachys polustris).

7. Secondary noxious-weed seeds. "Secondary noxious-weed seeds" are the seeds of such weeds as are very objectionable in fields, lawns or gardens, but can be controlled by good cultural practice. In this State they are the seeds of Dodder (Cuscuta spp.), Horsenettle (Solanum carolinense), Wild Mustard (Brassica spp.), Wild Garlic (Allium vineale), Wild Onion (Allium canadense), Wild Radish (Raphanus raphanistrum), Perennial Sowthistle (Sonchus arvensis), Corncockle (Agrostemma githago), Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and Yellow Rocket (Barbarea vulgaris).

7-A. Tree and shrub seeds. "Tree and shrub seeds" shall include the seeds of woody plants commonly known and sold as tree and shrub seeds in this State. [PL 1969, c. 42, §2 (NEW).]

8. Vegetable seeds. "Vegetable seeds" shall include the seeds of those crops which are grown in gardens or on truck farms and are generally known and sold under the name of vegetable seeds in this State.

9. Weed seeds. "Weed seeds" shall include the seeds of all plants other than other crop seed and pure seed and shall include noxious-weed seeds.
7 M.R.S. § 451 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 451
7 §451. Purpose
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds that agricultural production has a substantial and unique effect on the economy and way of life of the entire State. Large numbers of the people in the State are directly or indirectly dependent on agricultural production and related industries. It is of vital importance that producers be assured of payment for their production in order to assure commensurate stability in the productive capacity and economy. To a great extent the well-being of the industry is dependent upon those persons engaged in the buying and marketing of the agricultural commodities grown by others and the manner in which their services are performed. The entire manner of marketing of our agricultural production requires special consideration. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]

The Legislature intends through this legislation to exercise the police power of the State in order to protect and promote the general welfare of the agricultural producers and the people of the State and maintain and encourage fair and equitable practices in the purchase, handling and sale of agricultural commodities, which will, in turn, have the beneficial effect of improving the economy and well-being of the entire State. [PL 1981, c. 139 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 15 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 15
7 §15. Jurisdiction; disposal of fines
Status: in_force

The District Court and the Superior Court shall have concurrent jurisdiction of actions brought for the recovery of penalties imposed by this Title, Title 17, chapter 43 and Title 32, chapter 27 , and of prosecutions for violations hereof. All fines received under this Title and Title 32, chapter 27 shall accrue to the Treasurer of State for deposit in the General Fund. [PL 1973, c. 598, §61 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 122 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 5 / Section 122
7 §122. Orcharding and crops
Status: in_force

The Maine Agricultural Experiment Station shall conduct scientific investigations in orcharding, corn and other farm crops and, to this end, shall maintain the farms purchased in the name of the State, and stocked and equipped for the use and benefit of the station. The Director of the Maine Agricultural Experiment Station, with the agreement of the Board of Agriculture, has the general supervision, management and control of those farms and of all investigations thereon. The board and the director shall seek agreement on all issues. In the event that agreement can not be reached, final authority rests with the director. [PL 2005, c. 512, §2 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2154 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 403 / Section 2154
7 §2154. Powers; responsibilities
Status: in_force

1. Production, distribution and sales. The seed board, with the approval of the Maine Potato Board as established in Title 36, section 4603 , may produce, or cause to be produced through contract or otherwise, seed potatoes for distribution and sale. The seed board, in consultation with the Maine Potato Board, shall determine the varieties and acreages of each variety to produce. The seed board shall oversee seed production facilities and make recommendations to the Maine Potato Board regarding the production, distribution and sales of seed potatoes. The production program developed by the seed board with approval and oversight by the Maine Potato Board must include, but is not limited to, long-range projections of industry trends and needs, contracting with growers to reproduce nuclear seed stock grown at the seed board’s seed potato farm, a determination of the varieties and volume of seed to be grown at seed production facilities and allocation of seed to growers for the benefit of the entire state potato industry. [PL 2009, c. 379, §4 (NEW).]

2. Use of funds. The seed board may not commit funds that exceed the amount of funds approved by the Maine Potato Board as established in Title 36, section 4603 . The Maine Potato Board may pay from the seed potato account to the Town of Masardis in lieu of taxes a sum, in the discretion of the Maine Potato Board, that compensates the town in whole or in part for loss of real estate taxes due to tax exempt status of real estate used for seed potato purposes. [PL 2009, c. 379, §4 (NEW).]

3. Authority to acquire, hold and convey property. The seed board, with the approval of the Maine Potato Board as established in Title 36, section 4603 , may purchase, own or otherwise acquire farm real estate and farm equipment necessary to produce acreages of seed potatoes or for the testing of seed potatoes. The seed board, with the approval of the Maine Potato Board, may sell or otherwise convey farm real estate and farm equipment no longer required for the purposes of this chapter. Proceeds from the sale must be credited to an operating account for the seed board established in accordance with Title 36, section 4604, subsection 4 . [PL 2009, c. 379, §4 (NEW).]

4. Cooperation with the University of Maine System. The seed board is advisory to and may work with and through the Maine Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of Maine System and other public and private agencies to annually conduct a program for the production of seed potatoes. If a program for the standardized testing of new varieties of commercial seed does not exist under the auspices of the Maine Agricultural Experiment Station, the seed board shall provide the Maine Potato Board as established in Title 36, section 4603 with a recommendation for developing such a program. [PL 2009, c. 379, §4 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 974-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 974-A
7 §974-A. State loans
Status: in_force

1. State loans. State loans are subject to the following conditions. A. No state loan for any project under this article, the total cost of which exceeds $150,000, may exceed 45% of the project cost and no state loan may be provided for such a project unless the applicant demonstrates a commitment of private funds of at least 10% of the total cost of the project, except that, in order to encourage the undertaking of cooperative projects by 2 or more farmers, no state loan for such a project may exceed 50% of the total cost of the project and no state loan may be provided unless the cooperating farmers as a group demonstrate a commitment of private funds of at least 5% of the total cost of the project. [PL 2017, c. 6, §1 (AMD).] B. No state loan for any project under this article, the total cost of which is $150,000 or less, may exceed 55% of the total cost of the project. [PL 2017, c. 6, §1 (AMD).] C. State loans must be at the interest rate established pursuant to subsection 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 31, §1 (AMD).] D. Other terms and conditions prescribed by rule by the board. [PL 2021, c. 560, §7 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 560, §7 (AMD).]

2. State loan interest rate. [PL 2021, c. 31, §2 (RP).]

2-A. State loan interest rate. The interest rate for state loans is the federal prime rate on the date of loan commitment but may not be greater than 5%. Loans current on the effective date of this subsection may be refinanced at the borrower's request to an interest rate of the federal prime rate but not greater than 5%. A fee for administrative costs, which must be at a rate set by rule by the board but may not exceed 1% of the loan, must be charged on a loan made for a project the total cost of which exceeds $50,000. This fee must be deposited in the fund. [PL 2021, c. 31, §3 (NEW).]

3. Approval of loans and grants. The commissioner has authority to approve all loans and grants from the fund. [PL 2013, c. 403, §8 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 293 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-G / Section 293
7 §293. Right to cultivate vegetable gardens
Status: in_force

Pursuant to the right to food as declared in the Constitution of Maine, Article I, Section 25, and notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, an individual has the right to cultivate vegetable gardens on the individual's property or on the private property of another with the permission of the owner of that property, in any municipality, village, plantation, county, unorganized territory or other political subdivision of this State. [PL 2025, c. 309, §14 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1809 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1809
7 §1809. Permits for state entry
Status: in_force

1. Permit required. The commissioner may require a person who imports animals or avian hatching eggs into the State to obtain a permit before the time of entry. When a permit is required, the permit or permit number must accompany the shipment. The commissioner may refuse to grant a permit or may issue one subject to quarantine at destination if the animals or avian hatching eggs do not meet importation requirements or do not comply with the inland fisheries and wildlife laws and rules adopted by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife under Title 12, chapter 915, subchapter 15 or Title 12, section 12102 . The commissioner may require the owner to have those animals or avian hatching eggs tested or examined by a veterinarian at the owner's expense. The commissioner may release those animals or avian hatching eggs from quarantine only after the commissioner is satisfied that they are not a disease threat to other animals or humans. When an animal or avian hatching egg is brought into the State without a required permit, the commissioner or the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife may condemn the animal and order it euthanized without indemnity or condemn the avian hatching egg and order it destroyed without indemnity. For purposes of this section, "avian hatching egg" means an egg of a bird species that is fertile and handled, transported and stored in a manner that maintains its viability. "Avian hatching egg" does not include fertile eggs marketed for human consumption. [PL 2017, c. 205, §1 (AMD).]

2. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules to establish importation requirements necessary to maintain the health of domestic animals. The commissioner, in consultation with the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, shall maintain a list of animals for which a permit is required and conditions under which a permit is required for avian hatching eggs prior to entering the State. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . [PL 2007, c. 128, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 52 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 52
7 §52. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

1. Abutting land. "Abutting land" means real estate that shares a common boundary, or portion of a boundary, with land that is held in common ownership with land registered or being considered for registration under this chapter when the abutting real estate is within 50 feet of the land registered or being considered for registration. Abutting land includes, but is not limited to, land separated by a road and within 50 feet of land that is held in common ownership with land registered or being considered for registration under this chapter. [PL 2011, c. 608, §1 (AMD).]

2. Agricultural chemicals. "Agricultural chemicals" means fungicides, insecticides, herbicides, and other pesticides. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

3. Commercial farming. "Commercial farming" means the production of any farm product with the intent that that farm product be sold or otherwise disposed of to generate income. [PL 2007, c. 649, §1 (AMD).]

3-A. Farm product. "Farm product" means those plants and animals useful to humans and includes, but is not limited to, forages and sod crops, grains and food crops, dairy products, poultry and poultry products, bees, livestock and livestock products and fruits, berries, vegetables, flowers, seeds, grasses, Christmas trees and other similar products. [PL 2019, c. 310, §2 (AMD).]

4. Farmland. "Farmland" means any tract or tracts of land used for commercial farming: A. That consists of 5 or more contiguous acres; [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] B. That has produced a gross annual farming income of at least $2,000 per year from the sales value of farm products in one of the 2, or 3 of the 5, calendar years preceding the date of application for registration under this chapter; and [PL 2011, c. 608, §3 (AMD).] C. [PL 2011, c. 608, §3 (RP).] D. That is land on which a farm product is produced. [PL 2011, c. 608, §3 (AMD).] "Farmland" does not include land used for woodlots, homes, farm buildings, roads, lawns or any area covered with noncrop vegetation that borders abutting land. [PL 2011, c. 608, §3 (AMD).]

5. Inconsistent development or use. "Inconsistent development or use": A. Means development or use of land which: (1) Is initiated after the registration of the abutting farmland under this chapter; (2) Takes place upon abutting land within 100 feet of registered farmland; and (3) Is of any of the following kinds or is used for any of the following purposes: (a) Residential buildings; (b) Public and private wells, drinking water springs and water supply intake points; (c) School buildings and any playgrounds, athletic fields or other school facilities designed for use by children in the vicinity of school buildings; (d) Commercial establishments dispensing or selling food; and (e) Public and commercial campgrounds and picnic areas; and [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] B. Does not include any: (1) Expansion of an existing use, provided that, when the existing use includes a building, the expansion does not increase the total floor area of the building by more than 100% and the expansion is no closer to the registered farmland than is the existing building; or (2) Replacement or reconstruction of an existing building or structure which is damaged or destroyed by fire or other casualty and which is replaced or reconstructed within 2 years of such damage or destruction. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

6. Incompatible use. "Incompatible use" means the development or use of abutting land for a well, drinking water spring or water supply intake point when that use is initiated on abutting land that is within 50 feet of farmland after that farmland has been registered under this chapter. [PL 2011, c. 608, §4 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 32 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2 / Section 32
7 §32. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]

1. AFIDA. "AFIDA" means the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978, United States Code, Title 7, Section 3501 , et seq. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]

2. Agricultural land. "Agricultural land" means any land in Maine which is used or capable of use without substantial modification for production of agriculturally related products including, but not limited to, crops, livestock, poultry, dairy products and sod. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]

3. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the commissioner's authorized agents. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §59 (COR).]

4. Family farm corporation. "Family farm corporation" means a corporation founded for the purpose of farming and the ownership of agricultural land; the majority of the voting stock must be held by, and a majority of the shareholders must be, persons or the spouses of persons related to each other within the 3rd degree of kindred and at least one of the related persons must reside on or actively operate the farm; and none of the shareholders may be a corporation. A family corporation does not cease to qualify as such by reason of any bequest of voting stock. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]

5. Farm partnership. "Farm partnership" means an association of 2 or more individuals formed for the purpose of farming. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]

6. Interest in land. "Interest in land" means all forms of direct or indirect ownership of land, except: A. Contingent future interests; [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).] B. Noncontingent future interests which do not become possessory upon the termination of the present possessory estate; and [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).] C. Surface or subsurface easements and rights-of-way used for a purpose unrelated to agricultural production. [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).] [PL 1983, c. 396, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 951-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 951-A
7 §951-A. Minimum standards for planting
Status: in_force

A person may not plant seed potatoes in the State, the product of which is intended for sale, in lots of one or more acres unless that seed is certified in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner. These rules may include without limitation requirements for filing reports with the commissioner and requirements for filing records to the commissioner or the commissioner's designee, upon request, that demonstrate that the potatoes planted have been properly certified. A person, firm or corporation that plants potatoes in violation of this section is subject to a fine of $1,000 plus not more than $400 per acre for each acre or part of an acre planted. Failure to file complete and accurate reports or failure to provide complete and accurate records in accordance with the rules adopted by the commissioner is an additional violation resulting in a separate fine of not less than $200 nor more than $1,000 for each such failure. Any fine collected under this section is payable to the Treasurer of State and credited without lapsing to the commissioner for the enforcement of this section. The commissioner shall adopt and may amend rules consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act to implement this section. In addition to the enforcement powers and penalties established in this section, the commissioner may issue subpoenas to any individual in order to compel delivery of any reports or records required under this section. These subpoenas are enforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction. [PL 2013, c. 475, §1 (AMD).]

In the event there is not available to be planted in Maine in any year a sufficient volume of Maine potato seed meeting Maine certified seed potato disease standards, in any or all varieties, the commissioner may, upon application of one or more growers, permit seed of a higher disease content to be planted for that growing season. [PL 1979, c. 532, §1 (NEW).]

Each grower shall keep records of seed planted by variety and by fields during the growing season and report planting records as may be requested by the commissioner. Notwithstanding Title 1, chapter 13 , records pertaining to minimum standards for planting received or kept by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry are confidential and not available for inspection. The confidential status terminates when the records are subpoenaed as evidence in any proceeding to enforce a provision of this section, or in any prosecution for a criminal violation. A grower may authorize in writing the disclosure of records pertaining to minimum standards for planting. [PL 1989, c. 783 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
7 M.R.S. § 955 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 955
7 §955. Exemptions
Status: in_force

Certified seed potatoes as defined by chapter 401 are exempted from sections 951 to 957 , except as may otherwise be promulgated by the commissioner.
7 M.R.S. § 2151 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 403 / Section 2151
7 §2151. Creation and membership
Status: in_force

The Seed Potato Board, established by Title 5, section 12004‑H, subsection 5 , is overseen by and is the responsibility of the Maine Potato Board, a public instrumentality of the State established in Title 36, section 4603 . The Seed Potato Board, referred to in this chapter as "the seed board," consists of the commissioner and 8 members appointed in accordance with subsections 1 and 2 . [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (RPR).]

1. Appointments by the commissioner. The commissioner shall appoint 2 members to the seed board as follows: A. A representative of the potato industry in a county other than Aroostook County; and [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).] B. A person producing potatoes in Aroostook County primarily for processing. [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).]

2. Appointments by the Maine Potato Board. The Maine Potato Board as established in Title 36, section 4603 shall appoint 6 members to the seed board representing the potato industry in Aroostook County, including: A. One producing primarily tablestock potatoes; and [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).] B. One producing potatoes primarily for processing. [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2009, c. 379, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 3938-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 723 / Section 3938-A
7 §3938-A. Minimum age of transfer for cats and dogs
Status: in_force

A person or an animal shelter, boarding kennel, breeding kennel or grandfathered pet shop that sells, gives away or otherwise transfers ownership of a dog or cat before it has reached its 56th day of life commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $200 may be adjudged. For purposes of this section, "grandfathered pet shop" has the same meaning as in section 3933 . [PL 2019, c. 544, §3 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 2852 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 6-A / Chapter 529 / Section 2852
7 §2852. Damage to hives from bears
Status: in_force

Any licensed beekeeper or a licensed beekeeper's designee may obtain a permit from the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or the commissioner's agents to protect hives from damage by bears. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §137 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 3970-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 730-A / Section 3970-B
7 §3970-B. Breeding and sale of small mammals
Status: in_force

1. Rulemaking. The commissioner shall adopt major substantive rules in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A to regulate the breeding and sale of small mammals, including, but not limited to, guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits. The rules must reflect the standards of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture for the care of small mammals. Rules adopted pursuant to this section apply only to persons who are not regulated or required to be licensed under chapter 723 or 735 . [PL 2003, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates the rules adopted under this section commits a civil violation for which a fine not to exceed $100 per violation may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 284-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-F / Section 284-A
7 §284-A. Application
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter apply to any local food ordinance adopted by a municipality, plantation or county, including those local food ordinances adopted prior to October 31, 2017. [PL 2025, c. 309, §12 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1092 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 105 / Section 1092
7 §1092. Assignment
Status: in_force

No provision that is inserted in any contract or other instrument that is prepared by a dealer or processor that makes an assignment of the dues or fair share fees described in section 1091-A ineffective is valid. [PL 2003, c. 329, §3 (AMD).]

An assignment of dues or fair share fees may not exceed 1% of the total value of the product or services delivered by the member to the dealer or processor. [PL 2003, c. 329, §3 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 459 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 459
7 §459. Forfeiture of bond; recovery on bond
Status: in_force

If a licensee fails to make payment as provided in section 457, subsection 1, paragraph B , that licensee by reason of the nonpayment is in default as to all producers or licensees whose accounts then remain unpaid and the bond provided for must be forfeited to the extent of all sums then due from the licensee to the producers or licensees. Whenever the commissioner determines that a licensee has failed to make payment, the commissioner shall provide notice, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, that payment under the bond will be sought and indicating the time within which other producer or licensee claims may be made known to the commissioner. Upon determination of the commissioner that there has been a default in payment by a licensee, the conditions of the bond are deemed to be broken and the commissioner may bring action on the defaulted bond for the benefit of producers or licensees. Whenever the amount of the bond is not sufficient to cover all valid claims, the commissioner shall distribute the amount available on a pro rata basis. [PL 2005, c. 512, §15 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1815 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1815
7 §1815. Disposal of infected animals
Status: in_force

Any animal infected with or exposed to foot and mouth disease must be killed, buried, destroyed, rendered, processed or otherwise disposed of under the direct supervision of the commissioner or the commissioner's duly authorized agent. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §129 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 1452 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 207 / Section 1452
7 §1452. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, "auction" means the offering of cattle, sheep, swine, goats, equines, domesticated cervids, poultry and other animals raised for food or fiber for sale by means of exchanges between an auctioneer and bidders. [PL 2003, c. 386, §12 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 1802 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 305 / Section 1802
7 §1802. Condemnation of diseased animals
Status: in_force

The commissioner may, when the commissioner considers it necessary, condemn and take possession of diseased or exposed domestic animals, or domestic animals suspected of being diseased or exposed, for diagnostic purposes, and may pay the owner for the same, health, condition and market value being considered. This condemnation may not be considered licensing or an adjudicatory proceeding, as defined by the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §128 (COR).]
7 M.R.S. § 58 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 2-B / Section 58
7 §58. Enforcement and penalties
Status: in_force

1. Enforcement. Proceedings to enforce any provision of this chapter may be brought by a municipality, county or any aggrieved person. Such proceedings may be initiated in accordance with the provisions of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 80B, as applicable. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).]

2. Penalties. Any violation of this chapter shall be punishable as follows. A. [PL 2011, c. 608, §17 (RP).] B. Any inconsistent development upon or use of land in violation of this chapter may be removed or discontinued by order of the court in a proceeding to enforce this chapter, and the court may fashion any other appropriate equitable remedy consistent with the purposes of this chapter. [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] C. Any person who violates any provisions of this chapter shall, in addition to the other provisions of this section, be subject to the civil penalties and enforcement procedures for land use laws and ordinances in Title 30‑A, section 4452 . [PL 1989, c. 478, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 608, §17 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 432 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 432
7 §432. Market information
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall collect relevant information from the market place, both directly and from appropriate secondary sources. This information may include product prices, both wholesale and retail, taking into account quantity, packaging, quality, specific market and time of year, purchasing habits of wholesale and retail buyers and preferences of consumers in terms of quantity, packaging, quality and season and availability of supplies of both directly competitive products and substitute products. In addition to these factors needed to make short-term marketing decisions, information may also be collected relevant to long-term marketing decisions, such as production costs, profitability and market structure. [PL 1983, c. 563, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2224 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 406 / Section 2224
7 §2224. Fund
Status: in_force

All fees collected under this chapter must be deposited in a nonlapsing dedicated fund to be used by the department to implement this chapter. [PL 1993, c. 548, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 441-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 441-B
7 §441-B. Federal-State Inspection Fund
Status: in_force

There is established the Federal-State Inspection Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund." The fund receives all revenues collected by the Federal-State Inspection Service from conducting inspections and inspection-related work including but not limited to inspection fees, fees from state and federal agencies and grants or other funds received by the Federal-State Inspection Service in support of operating a statewide inspection program. All money collected must be deposited in the fund to be used for the management and operation of the Federal-State Inspection Service. Unexpended balances in the fund do not lapse and must be carried forward to be used for the purposes specified in this section. [PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. OO, §1 (NEW).]

Any interest earned on the revenue deposited in the fund only accrues to the fund. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. MM, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 542 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 542
7 §542. Records
Status: in_force

A record on a form approved by the commissioner must be kept at a convenient location adjacent to such room or storage building from the day of sealing to the day of opening of such room or storage building, and is subject to review by the commissioner or the commissioner's authorized agents at any time for a period of at least one year. It must include the owner or operator's name and address, room number, date of sealing, date of opening, capacity in bushels, lot identification, number of bushels within each lot, daily air components determination recordings showing date of test, time of test, percentage of carbon dioxide, percentage of carbon dioxide and oxygen, percentage of oxygen, temperature and comments. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §90 (COR).]

Each owner or operator shall submit to the department, within 20 days after date of sealing, a report in writing for each room showing room number, date of sealing and number of bushels contained therein.
7 M.R.S. § 219 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 219
7 §219. Food self-sufficiency
Status: in_force

1. Farm labor link network. The department shall maintain an agricultural jobs network linking farms and facilities processing agricultural products grown in the State with available workers who wish to work on a farm or in a local food industry. An available worker under this subsection may include a person involved in raising, processing, preparing or preserving food or who is required to perform community service as a low-income recipient of state supplemental income benefits or under a court order. The department shall coordinate with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension to identify farms and food processing facilities willing to participate in the network and coordinate with the Department of Labor, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Department of Corrections and the Judicial Department in identifying available workers willing to participate in the network. If a worker participating in the network wishes to pursue additional training or a career in agriculture or food production, the department shall refer the person to available resources or programs that train workers or develop skills or business practices in farming, food production or food processing. A worker may meet the requirements for community service obligations under a state supplemental income benefits program, judicial order or alternative sentencing program by performing work on a farm or food processing facility through participation in the network under this subsection. [PL 2015, c. 347, §1 (NEW).]

2. Educational marketing campaign. The department shall coordinate with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Maine Community College System, the Department of Labor, the Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Economic and Community Development to conduct an educational marketing campaign to promote food self-sufficiency by encouraging the public to grow gardens, raise farm animals, preserve garden-grown food and engage in other local food cultivation initiatives through the use of multiple media including social media, radio advertising, posters, brochures and publicly accessible department websites. [PL 2015, c. 347, §1 (NEW).]

3. Local purchases for food programs. If the department, as part of a public-private partnership, purchases food for an emergency or supplemental food program for elderly or low-income persons, the department to the extent practicable shall purchase food that is grown, harvested, prepared, processed or produced in the State. [PL 2015, c. 347, §1 (NEW).]

4. Existing resources. The department shall use existing programs and resources in carrying out the purposes of this section. [PL 2015, c. 347, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 4201 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 10 / Chapter 747 / Section 4201
7 §4201. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

1. Animal feeding operation. "Animal feeding operation" means a lot or facility where animals are confined and fed for a total of at least 45 days in a 12-month period. "Animal feeding operation" does not include an aquatic animal production facility. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

2. Animal unit. "Animal unit" means 1,000 pounds of animal body weight. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

3. Board. "Board" means the Nutrient Management Review Board established in section 4203 . [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

4. Farm nutrient. "Farm nutrient" means a substance or recognized plant nutrient, element or compound that is used or sold for its plant nutritive content or its claimed nutritive value for use in growing crops. The term includes, but is not limited to, livestock and poultry manures, compost as fertilizer, commercially manufactured chemical fertilizers, sewage sludge, residuals or combinations of these. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

5. Nutrient management plan. "Nutrient management plan" means a written document that outlines how farm nutrients are stored, managed and utilized on the farm for which the plan is written. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

6. Regulated residual. "Regulated residual" means a residual regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection pursuant to Title 38, chapter 13 that is used primarily for its nitrogen and phosphorous value as determined by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. "Regulated residual" does not include compost in quantities less than 100 tons per year or wood ash. [PL 2003, c. 283, §1 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

7. Residual. "Residual" means any material generated as a byproduct of a nonagricultural production or treatment process that has value as a source of crop nutrients or soil amendment. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]

8. Verified complaint of improper manure handling. "Verified complaint of improper manure handling" means a complaint of improper manure handling investigated in accordance with Title 17, section 2701-B and resulting in a determination by the commissioner that the manure has been stored or handled in a manner that does not conform with best management practices. [PL 1997, c. 642, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 523 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 523
7 §523. Definitions
Status: in_force

1. Label. "Label" shall mean any written, printed or graphic matter affixed to, applied to, blown into, formed, molded into, embossed on, or appearing upon or adjacent to a commodity or package containing any consumer commodity, for the purpose of branding, identifying or giving any information in respect to the commodity or to the contents of the package. [PL 1969, c. 325 (NEW).]

2. Commodity in package form. "Commodity in package form" shall mean a commodity put up or packaged in a manner in advance of sale in units suitable for either wholesale or retail sale, exclusive of any auxiliary shipping container enclosing packages that individually conform to the requirements of this subchapter. An individual item or lot of any commodity not in package form as defined in this section but on which there is marked a selling price based on an established price per unit of weight or measure shall mean a commodity in package form. [PL 1969, c. 325 (NEW).]

3. Consumer commodity. "Consumer commodity," except as specifically provided by this subchapter, means any food, as defined by the Maine Food Law, Title 22, chapter 551, subchapter I , and any other article, product or commodity of any kind or class which is customarily produced or distributed for sale through retail sales agencies or instrumentalities for consumption by individuals, or use by individuals for purposes of personal care or in the performance of services ordinarily rendered within the household, and which usually is consumed or expended in the course of such consumption or use. [PL 1971, c. 544, §18 (AMD).]

4. Principal display panel. "Principal display panel" shall mean that part, or those parts, of the label so designed as to be most likely to be displayed, presented, shown or examined under normal conditions of display or for retail sale. [PL 1969, c. 325 (NEW).]

5. Container. "Container" means a glass, metal or plastic bottle, can, jar or other receptacle for holding liquids, powders or other materials, which has been sealed by a manufacturer and which, at the time of sale, contains less than one gallon or 231 cubic inches. [PL 1987, c. 373, §§ 1, 5 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 897 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 897
7 §897. Enforcement; jurisdiction
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall diligently enforce all of the provisions of sections 891 to 898 . The commissioner, either in person or by a duly authorized representative, has free access, ingress and egress to any place or building, store, gift shop or any building wherein maple or maple products are packed, stored, transported, sold or offered or exposed for sale or for transportation. The commissioner may also in person, or by a duly authorized representative, open any container and may upon tendering market price, take samples therefrom. The commissioner may recover forfeitures imposed for violation of those sections in a civil action brought in the commissioner's own name and if the commissioner prevails in that action, recovers full costs. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §112 (COR).]

All money and forfeitures received by the commissioner for violations of sections 891 to 898 must be paid by the commissioner to the Treasurer of State and must be appropriated for carrying out those sections. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §113 (COR).]

The commissioner shall, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, establish such rules and regulations as may be needed for the proper enforcement of sections 891 to 898 . [PL 1977, c. 694, §88 (RPR).]
7 M.R.S. § 4160 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 9 / Chapter 745 / Section 4160
7 §4160. Notice of consumer rights
Status: in_force

1. Written notice. A seller shall provide the purchaser a written notice of rights, signed by the seller, certifying the accuracy of the information contained in the notice. The notice must be signed by the purchaser, acknowledging that the purchaser has reviewed and understood the written notice. A signed copy must be retained by the seller and one copy given to the purchaser. The notice must be in a minimum of 16-point, bold-faced type and must state the following: "A STATEMENT OF MAINE LAW GOVERNING THE SALE OF DOGS AND CATS: The sale of dogs and cats is subject to consumer protection regulations. Maine law also provides safeguards to protect sellers and animal purchasers. Attached is a copy of the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 7, chapter 745 . Contained in this law is a statement of your consumer rights and remedies. Also attached is your pet's health history and specific warranty information." [PL 2007, c. 702, §34 (AMD).]

2. Oral notice. In addition, all medical information required to be disclosed pursuant to this section must be orally disclosed to the purchaser by the seller prior to purchase. [PL 2007, c. 702, §35 (AMD).]

The statement of consumer rights must also contain or have attached the disclosure required under section 4152 and the name and phone number of the state agency to be contacted in the event of perceived violations of this chapter. [PL 1995, c. 589, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 904 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 904
7 §904. Enforcement; jurisdiction
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall enforce this subchapter. The commissioner or the commissioner's designee must have free access to any place or building, store, gift shop or any other building where birch syrup or birch syrup products are packed, stored, transported, sold or offered or exposed for sale or for transportation. The commissioner or the commissioner's designee may open any container and may upon tendering the market price take samples. The commissioner may recover fines imposed for a violation under this subchapter in a civil action and if the commissioner prevails in that action may recover full costs. [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]

All fines for violations under this subchapter must be paid to the Treasurer of State and appropriated for enforcing this subchapter. [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]

The commissioner shall adopt rules to implement this subchapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 43, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2101 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 401 / Section 2101
7 §2101. Definition
Status: in_force

The term "certified seed" as used in this Title shall be deemed to mean potato, vegetable, forage crop or grain seeds as shall have been grown and prepared for sale in accordance with regulations laid down by the commissioner and for which a certificate or tag has been issued as provided in section 2103 . Authority to make, in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, all reasonable rules and regulations is given the said commissioner. [PL 1977, c. 694, §130 (AMD).]

No seed potatoes grown outside the State shall be sold or exposed for sale in the State unless that seed meets the standards of Maine certified seed potatoes as defined by the commissioner. [PL 1979, c. 321 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1455 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 3 / Chapter 207 / Section 1455
7 §1455. Records
Status: in_force

The operator shall keep complete records of all sales transactions, which must be available for inspection by the commissioner. The department may establish, by rule, the length of time that a person who conducts an auction must retain these records. These records must indicate the origins of the animals sold, the name and address of the person purchasing the animals and the destination of those animals. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 2001, c. 572, §17 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 3155-B — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 611 / Section 3155-B
7 §3155-B. Eligible marketing cooperative; revocation of status
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding section 3155‑A , Title 4, section 152, subsection 9 and Title 5, section 10051, subsection 1 , the commissioner may revoke the eligible status of a marketing cooperative upon a determination that it has through its operation evaded, impaired or undermined the purposes of this chapter. [PL 2005, c. 382, Pt. F, §37 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 152 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 6 / Section 152
7 §152. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

1. Agricultural composting operation. "Agricultural composting operation" means composting that takes place on a farm. "Agricultural composting operation" does not include an operation that involves nonorganic municipal solid waste or that composts municipal sludge, septage, industrial solid waste or industrial sludge. "Agricultural composting operation" does not include an operation that composts materials with a moderate or high risk of contamination from heavy metals, volatile and semivolatile organic compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls or dioxin. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

2. Agricultural products. "Agricultural products" means those plants and animals and their products that are useful to humans and includes, but is not limited to, forages and sod crops, grains and feed crops, dairy and dairy products, poultry and poultry products, bees and bees' products, livestock and livestock products, manure and compost and fruits, berries, vegetables, flowers, seeds, grasses and other similar products, or any other plant, animal or plant or animal products that supply humans with food, feed, fiber or fur. "Agricultural products" does not include trees grown and harvested for forest products. [PL 2015, c. 145, §1 (AMD).]

3. Agricultural support services. "Agricultural support services" means the aerial or surface application of seed, fertilizer, pesticides or soil amendments and custom harvesting. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

4. Composting. "Composting" means the controlled aerobic decomposition of organic materials to produce a soil-like product beneficial to plant growth and suitable for agronomic use. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

5. Farm. "Farm" means the land, plants, animals, buildings, structures, ponds and machinery used in the commercial production of agricultural products. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]

6. Farm operation. "Farm operation" means a condition or activity that occurs on a farm in connection with the commercial production of agricultural products and includes, but is not limited to, operations giving rise to noise, odors, dust, insects and fumes; operation of machinery and irrigation pumps; disposal of manure; agricultural support services; and the employment and use of labor. [PL 2007, c. 649, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1758 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 303 / Section 1758
7 §1758. Salmonella enteritidis risk reduction and surveillance program
Status: in_force

The commissioner, in cooperation with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service, shall develop a Salmonella enteritidis risk reduction and surveillance program for poultry. The commissioner shall adopt rules to implement the program. The rules must define the term "commercial egg producer" and establish requirements for participating in the program and a process for monitoring compliance with the program. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 2001, c. 91, §1 (NEW).]

Upon final adoption of the rules, participation in the program is mandatory for all commercial egg producers in the State. A commercial egg producer who fails to comply with the requirements of this section and rules adopted pursuant to this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of no more than $1,000 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 91, §1 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2187 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 5 / Chapter 404 / Section 2187
7 §2187. Renewals
Status: in_force

The department shall notify every person licensed under this subchapter of the date of expiration of that person's certificate and the fee required for its annual renewal. The notice must be mailed to the person's last known address at least 30 days in advance of the expiration of the license. An application for a license renewal must contain whatever information is necessary for the department to determine whether the applicant may continue to hold a license and must be accompanied by the required fee, which is returnable if the applicant is denied a renewal license. A licensed arborist must file an application and fee of $5 for replacement of a lost license. [PL 1999, c. 84, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2993 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 604 / Section 2993
7 §2993. Powers and duties
Status: in_force

The board is created to promote the prosperity and welfare of this State and of the dairy industry of the State by fostering promotional, educational, advertising and research programs of the dairy industry. The board has the following powers and duties. The board: [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

1. Contracts and agreements. May make or enter into contracts or agreements with any local, state, federal or private agency, department, firm, corporation or association for the purposes defined in this chapter. The contracts or agreements may include, without limitation, those relating to the lease or purchase of office space, facilities, property, equipment and supplies as the board determines necessary for its purposes. The board may delegate to its executive director the power to enter into the contracts or agreements, subject to the board's oversight; [PL 1993, c. 689, §2 (AMD).]

2. Cooperation with other agencies. Shall cooperate with other state or regional agencies with like purposes, including transferring to those agencies any portion of its receipts that it determines appropriate and in the best interests of the dairy industry in the State. In determining those amounts, the board shall consider the relative benefits accruing to all Maine producers from increased fluid milk consumption within the Maine market and the New England market, Federal Milk Marketing Order No. 1; the relative effectiveness of the various programs intended to increase fluid milk consumption for which funding is being considered; appropriate research needs; and other considerations pertinent to the distribution of its funds to other agencies for cooperative efforts; [PL 1993, c. 689, §2 (AMD).]

3. Books and records. Shall keep books, records and accounts of all its activities, which must be open to inspection and audit by the State at all times. An independent certified public accountant shall conduct an annual audit of the financial records of the board and report the results of the audit to the board, the commissioner, the Treasurer of State and the Legislature; [RR 1995, c. 2, §17 (COR).]

4. Annual report. Shall prepare an annual report that must include a summary of all receipts and expenditures, including expenditures for specific promotional or research programs; a description of the various promotional or research programs operated, contracted or sponsored by the board; and a directory of current board members, including their affiliation and term of office; and [PL 1991, c. 376, §28 (NEW).]

5. Funding. May receive and expend funds from any source, public or private, that it determines necessary to carry out its purposes. [PL 1995, c. 693, §9 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 693, §25 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 306-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 10 / Section 306-A
7 §306-A. Agricultural Development Fund
Status: in_force

1. Agricultural Development Fund. The commissioner shall establish the Agricultural Development Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," to accelerate market development, adoption of technology and promotion of state agricultural products by state producers. [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).]

2. Fund operation. The commissioner shall utilize the fund to: A. Provide grants to public agencies and private for-profit entities and nonprofit entities based in the State to conduct market research or to undertake market promotion activities for the purpose of expanding existing markets and developing new markets for state agricultural products; [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).] B. Test and demonstrate new technologies related to the production, storage and processing of state agricultural products; and [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).] C. Provide technical assistance grants for conducting market research, feasibility studies, engineering studies, construction planning, land use planning, facility design and configuration planning and for funding the purchase of on-farm equipment and other technology purchases that directly support the growth of agricultural enterprises as defined in section 434 . [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (NEW).] The commissioner may disburse grant money awarded to an applicant during any of the 3 fiscal years following award of the grant to an applicant. [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).]

3. Rulemaking. The commissioner shall establish, by rule, in a manner consistent with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A criteria for the allocation of grant money, application requirements consistent with the provisions of this section, a schedule for accepting and reviewing applications, reporting requirements on grant expenditures and project results and any other administrative requirements necessary for the efficient implementation of this program. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . The commissioner is guided by the following criteria: A. Applications may be submitted by public agencies and private for-profit entities and nonprofit entities based in the State in response to a request for proposals for competitive grants. The commissioner may also contract directly with public agencies and private for-profit entities and nonprofit entities for a special project under section 307 ; [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).] B. A percentage of the total cost of any project must be funded by the applicant or applicants and a percentage of the total cost must be funded from nonpublic sources. These percentages must be established by rule. A single grant may not exceed 50% of the total funds available to be granted in a given year; [PL 2013, c. 64, §1 (AMD).] C. Information relative to market research or development activities provided to the commissioner prior to formal application, included in grant applications or provided to the commissioner to fulfill reporting requirements is confidential information and may not be publicly disclosed by the commissioner as long as: (1) The person to whom the information belongs or pertains has requested that certain information be designated as confidential; and (2) The commissioner has determined that the information gives the person making the request opportunity to obtain business or competitive advantage over another person who does not have access to the information or will result in loss of business or other significant detriment to the person making the request if access is provided to others; and [PL 1999, c. 72, §5 (NEW).] D. When possible, the commissioner shall award grants to applicants representing diverse agricultural enterprises and geographic areas of the State. [PL 1999, c. 72, §5 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).]

4. Advisory committee. The commissioner shall establish the Agricultural Development Committee to evaluate grant applications and review project results. [PL 2021, c. 710, §1 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 528 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 528
7 §528. Exemptions
Status: in_force

All packages of consumer commodities that have been labeled in accordance with federal regulations established by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Trade Commission or the United States Department of Agriculture are in compliance with this subchapter. [PL 2005, c. 512, §27 (AMD).]
7 M.R.S. § 215-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 1 / Chapter 8-A / Section 215-A
7 §215-A. Rule-making authority
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to carry out the provisions of this subchapter. The rules must establish a method and baseline to determine the percentage of Maine food or food products procured by state institutions based on dollars spent. Rules adopted under this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2019, c. 677, §9 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 2983 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 7 / Chapter 603-A / Section 2983
7 §2983. Selling below cost
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any dealer or retail store to sell milk for fluid consumption at less than the cost thereof to the dealer or retail store with the purpose or intent to injure competitors or destroy competition. In all proceedings brought to enforce this section, proof of consistent and repeated advertisements, offers to sell or sales of milk for fluid consumption by any dealer or retail store at less than cost to them, as defined in sections 2984 and 2985 , the advertisements, offers to sell and sales thereby forming a pattern of sales below cost, shall be prima facie evidence of intent to injure competitors and destroy competition. This section shall not apply where the price of milk for fluid consumption is set in good faith to meet legal competition. [PL 1983, c. 484, §2 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 441-A — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 441-A
7 §441-A. Legislative purpose
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds that Maine agricultural producers have, in many cases, tended to focus on production, with less attention to marketing, including the adoption of and adherence to quality standards. Consistent high quality of Maine agricultural products is essential to the maintenance and expansion of Maine markets and to the success of agriculture in the State. In order to assure that those quality standards are properly adopted, enforced and promoted, the Legislature finds it is necessary to provide state assistance in these aspects of marketing. [PL 1983, c. 563, §3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 766 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 103 / Section 766
7 §766. Report of tonnage
Status: in_force

1. By registrants. On or before September 1st in each year each registrant shall file with the commissioner, on forms prescribed by the commissioner, the number of tons of each agricultural liming material sold during the 12 months preceding July 1st of that year. [PL 2015, c. 191, §9 (AMD).]

2. Commissioner's report. The commissioner may publish and distribute annually, to each agricultural liming material registrant and other interested persons, a composite report showing the tons of agricultural liming material sold in the State. [PL 1987, c. 425, §§ 1, 3 (NEW).]
7 M.R.S. § 1706 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 4 / Chapter 301 / Section 1706
7 §1706. Penalties
Status: in_force

1. Violation. Except as provided in section 1707 or unless another specific penalty or forfeiture is provided, a person commits a civil violation if that person violates a provision of or a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to: A. This chapter; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Chapter 207 ; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] C. Chapter 303 ; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] D. Chapter 305 . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $500 per day for each violation may be adjudged, except that the total of the fines may not exceed $50,000. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §16 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
7 M.R.S. § 401 — ME Code / Title 7 / Part 2 / Chapter 101 / Section 401
7 §401. Methods and costs
Status: in_force

The commissioner is authorized and directed, through such agents as the commissioner may appoint for the purpose and in cooperation with such agricultural corporations or associations as the commissioner considers proper, to investigate the existing methods and costs of marketing farm products and purchasing farm supplies and to secure improvement therein. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §60 (COR).]