3 M.R.S. § 951 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 951
3 §951. Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter may be known and cited as the "State Government Evaluation Act." [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 41 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 41
3 §41. Organization
Status: in_force

The Clerk of the preceding House of Representatives in the same manner as provided for the Senate shall call the Representatives-elect to order and preside until they are qualified and elect a Speaker. If no quorum appears, the clerk shall preside, and the Representatives-elect present shall adjourn from day to day until a quorum appears and is qualified and a Speaker is elected. After the election of the Speaker, the House of Representatives shall proceed to elect by ballot a clerk and an assistant clerk. All revenues received by the document clerk in the performance of the document clerk's duties must be credited to the General Fund. [PL 2019, c. 475, §15 (AMD).]

In case of vacancy in the office of the clerk, or the clerk's absence or inability to perform the duties, the clerk's assistant shall perform the duties. [RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §2 (COR).]

If the Clerk of the House and the clerk's assistant are absent at the time set for convening the House, their duties must be performed by the Secretary of State or the Secretary of State's deputy. [PL 2019, c. 475, §15 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 735 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 735
3 §735. Administrative procedures
Status: in_force

Appeal from the executive director's decision is the same as provided for other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System in Title 5, section 17451 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §13 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 854 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 854
3 §854. Restoration to service
Status: in_force

If a recipient of a retirement allowance under this chapter again becomes a member of the Legislature, the recipient may: [PL 2019, c. 475, §32 (AMD).]

1. Receive allowance. Continue to receive the retirement allowance and not accrue any additional creditable service for that legislative service; or [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

2. Discontinue allowance. Direct, in writing, that the executive director discontinue the recipient's retirement allowance and the recipient accrues additional creditable service for that legislative service. [PL 2019, c. 475, §32 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 427 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 427
3 §427. Testimony
Status: in_force

Taking of testimony must be by the investigating committee's counsel, or other staff personnel or the members of the committee. A quorum must be present. Unless otherwise decided by investigating committee action, all testimony must be taken in open session. However, if any witness so requests, that witness's testimony must be taken in executive session, unless otherwise decided by investigating committee action. [RR 2009, c. 2, §1 (COR).]
3 M.R.S. § 162 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 162
3 §162. Authority
Status: in_force

The Legislative Council shall have the authority: [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

1. Legislative budgets. To prepare and approve all legislative budgets; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

1-A. Budget requests. To authorize the Executive Director of the Legislative Council to prepare and submit a tentative consolidated legislative budget request and other budget requests necessary for the operation of the legislative branch and other additional information, as requested, directly to the State Budget Officer on or before September 1st of the even-numbered years prior to review by the Legislative Council. The Legislative Council shall review the tentative budget submission developed by the executive director, altering, revising, increasing or decreasing the items as may be determined necessary. Upon final approval of the full legislative budget request, the Legislative Council shall submit a report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs outlining any differences from the tentative legislative budget submission; [PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. FF, §1 (NEW).]

1-B. Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability budget. To present the budget request of the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability to the State Budget Officer as provided in Title 5, section 1665 . If the budget presented pursuant to subsection 1‑A differs from the budget request submitted by the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability pursuant to this subsection, the Legislative Council shall simultaneously submit a report to that office and to the State Budget Officer explaining why the Legislative Council's budget request differs from the budget request of the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability. [PL 2001, c. 702, §1 (NEW).]

2. Legislative employee salary and benefit schedules. To establish salary schedules for all employees of legislative agencies, departments and offices, except as otherwise provided by law, to develop relatively uniform salary schedules for House and Senate employees and officers and, notwithstanding any other provision of law, to establish benefit schedules for legislative employees. Every publication that states the salary of an employee or a position must also include a statement of the dollar value of the fringe benefit package provided; [PL 1995, c. 37, §1 (AMD).]

3. Joint committees. When the Legislature is not in session, to assign bills, resolves and studies for consideration by the joint standing committees and joint select committees of the Legislature, to request reports, studies and legislation from said joint standing committees and to convene meetings of said joint standing committees and joint select committees and to exercise supervision over them; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

4. Oaths, subpoenas and depositions. To administer oaths, issue subpoenas, compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents and testimony, and to cause the deposition of witnesses, whether residing within or without the State, to be taken in the manner prescribed by law for taking depositions in civil actions in the Superior Court. In case of disobedience on the part of any person to comply with any subpoena issued in behalf of a committee, or on the refusal of any witness to testify to any matters regarding which the witness may be lawfully interrogated, it is the duty of the Superior Court of any county, on application of a member of a committee, to compel obedience by proceedings for contempt as in the case of disobedience of the requirements of a subpoena issued from that court or a refusal to testify in that court. Each witness, other than a state officer or employee, is entitled to receive for that witness's attendance the fees and mileage provided for witnesses in civil cases in courts of record, which must be audited and paid upon the presentation of proper vouchers sworn to by such witness and approved by the chair of the council; [PL 2019, c. 475, §18 (AMD).]

5. Legislative improvements. To assess ways and means to improve the legislative operation and to make improvements in the legislative organization, procedures, facilities and working conditions, and to make periodic reports to the Legislature concerning its findings. Changes in the organization of the legislative staff offices shall require the approval of two-thirds of the membership of the Legislative Council before they may take effect; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §1 (AMD).]

6. Appointment of directors and office directors. By a vote of no fewer than 8 members present at a public meeting of the Legislative Council, to appoint an Executive Director of the Legislative Council, a State Law Librarian and such other office directors as the council considers necessary. Each director must be chosen without reference to party affiliations and solely on the grounds of fitness to perform the duties of the office. The Executive Director, the State Law Librarian and the office directors appointed pursuant to this subsection serve at the pleasure of the Legislative Council and may be removed from office only by a vote of no fewer than 8 members present at a public meeting of the Legislative Council; [PL 2015, c. 102, §2 (AMD).]

6-A. Transition. [PL 2015, c. 102, §3 (RP).]

7. Legislative agency operating policy. To establish operating policies for each legislative agency and office; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

8. Oversight of legislative appropriations and accounts. To oversee the appropriations and other financial accounts, including position control, of the Legislature and of all legislative agencies, departments and offices and to comply with provisions of Title 5, Part 4 determined by the Legislative Council as relevant and applicable to the legislative branch and necessary for maintaining proper accounting controls and reporting. Appropriations for carrying out the purposes of this chapter must be made annually by the Legislature. All appropriations or allocations by the Legislature, including appropriations or allocations for specific studies to be carried out by the joint standing committees or joint select committees, may not lapse but must be carried forward and expended for the purpose for which the appropriation or allocation was made. The balance of any appropriation or allocation for such studies that is not fully expended must be refunded to the Legislature; [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. LL, §1 (AMD).]

8-A. Sale of publications. If the Legislative Council determines it advisable for the effective dissemination of statutory information or other information of general interest to the public, to fix the price, sell and deliver publications and materials produced by legislative agencies; [PL 1991, c. 1 (NEW).]

9. [PL 1975, c. 770, §4 (RP).]

10. Intergovernmental, interstate and interlegislative organizations. To coordinate and oversee intergovernmental relations programs on behalf of the Legislature, and to recommend to the Legislature participation by the Legislature and its members in interstate and inter-legislative organizations; and to apply for, receive and administer all grants and appropriations for these purposes; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

11. Legislative equipment and supplies. To provide necessary furniture, stationery and other supplies and equipment for the use of the members, committees, agencies and offices of the Legislature; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

12. Physical facilities for Legislature. To ensure that adequate physical facilities are provided for the efficient operation of the Legislature and to provide for and determine the utilization of legislatively controlled facilities both within and without the State House and, notwithstanding Title 5, section 1742, subsection 18 , to control and assign the use of all rooms in the State House, except the immediate offices occupied by the Governor and the Governor's staff in the west wing of the State House. The Legislative Council shall ensure that the Governor and the Governor's staff occupy sufficient and appropriate office space within the State House. The Legislative Council has the authority to authorize the Executive Director to enter into contracts for the purpose of maintaining or improving the physical facilities assigned to the Legislature, as long as the work to be performed is consistent with the official plan for the preservation and development of the aesthetic and historical integrity of the State House as described in section 902, subsection 1 ; [PL 1997, c. 671, §1 (AMD).]

12-A. Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance. To administer the Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance, established and maintained as provided in this subsection. The State Controller at the close of each fiscal year and at the request of the Legislative Council shall transfer from unexpended balances of General Fund appropriations to the Legislature to the Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance available amounts up to $250,000 a year until a maximum of $1,500,000 is achieved. The State Controller is further authorized to transfer from the Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance to the Blaine House Renovations and Repairs Fund the amounts recommended by the Legislative Council. The Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance may also receive and accept allocations, appropriations, grants and contributions of money to be held, used or applied to carry out this subsection, subject to the conditions upon which these allocations, appropriations, grants and contributions are made. Expenditures from the Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance are subject to legislative allocation, may be made only for major repairs and renovations to the State House, must be reviewed and recommended by the State House and Capitol Park Commission and must receive a majority vote of the Legislative Council. Funds allocated or appropriated to the Reserve Fund for State House Preservation and Maintenance may not lapse but must be carried forward; [PL 2001, c. 358, Pt. E, §1 (AMD).]

13. Transfers within the legislative appropriation. To approve any transfers within the legislative appropriation; [PL 1975, c. 770, §5 (RPR).]

14. Council procedures. To establish published rules of procedure for the conduct of the business of the council; [PL 1973, c. 590, §4 (RPR).]

15. Other duties and responsibilities. To perform such other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned to the council from time to time by the 2 Houses; [PL 1989, c. 410, §2 (AMD).]

16. Funds from State, Federal Government and private sources. To accept, use, expend and dispose on behalf of the State funds, equipment, supplies and materials from any agency of the United States, from any private foundation and from any other private source; [PL 1991, c. 622, Pt. L, §1 (AMD).]

16-A. Intellectual property. To use, manage or administer on behalf of the Legislature any copyright held by the Legislature or license to use copyrighted materials and to manage the copying, use and dissemination of copies of copyrighted materials in which the Legislature holds the copyright or a license; [PL 1999, c. 1, §2 (NEW).]

17. Approve plans to preserve and develop the State House and the immediate grounds. To approve architectural, aesthetic and decorative alterations to the State House. The Legislative Council also has authority to preserve and develop the aesthetic and historical integrity of the State House and the immediate grounds. The exercise of this authority with respect to Capitol Park must be consistent with the plan for Capitol Park developed by the Olmsted Brothers firm in 1920 as revised by the Pressley firm in 1990. The Legislative Council has the power to enter into contracts and other powers necessary to implement this subsection and chapter 31 ; [PL 2001, c. 468, §1 (AMD).]

18. Out-of-state travel report. To submit to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs a quarterly report on out-of-state travel activity of the Legislature. The report must be submitted within 15 days after the end of each quarter and must include, for each individual who has been authorized to travel, the destination, purpose and cost by funding source of each trip; and [PL 1997, c. 43, §2 (AMD).]

19. Legislative information available through the Internet. To make the following information available through the Internet: legislative documents, committee hearing schedules, work session schedules, status of legislation, voting records of Legislators, the laws of Maine, study reports and reports of other study groups established by the Legislature and any other information designated by the Legislative Council. [PL 1997, c. 43, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 999 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 999
3 §999. Full evaluation of tax expenditures
Status: in_force

1. Evaluation process. Beginning January 1, 2016, the office shall evaluate each tax expenditure identified under section 998, subsection 1, paragraph A in accordance with the schedule established in section 998, subsection 2 . A. Prior to the beginning of each evaluation, the committee, after consideration of recommendations from the office, shall approve the following for each tax expenditure subject to full evaluation: (1) The purposes, intent or goals of the tax expenditure, as informed by original legislative intent as well as subsequent legislative and policy developments and changes in the state economy and fiscal condition; (2) The intended beneficiaries of the tax expenditure; (3) The evaluation objectives, which may include an assessment of: (a) The fiscal impact of the tax expenditure, including past and estimated future impacts; (b) The extent to which the design of the tax expenditure is effective in accomplishing the tax expenditure's purposes, intent or goals and consistent with best practices; (c) The extent to which the tax expenditure is achieving its purposes, intent or goals, taking into consideration the economic context, market conditions and indirect benefits; (d) The extent to which those actually benefiting from the tax expenditure are the intended beneficiaries; (e) The extent to which it is likely that the desired behavior might have occurred without the tax expenditure, taking into consideration similar tax expenditures offered by other states; (f) The extent to which the State's administration of the tax expenditure, including enforcement efforts, is efficient and effective; (g) The extent to which there are other state or federal tax expenditures, direct expenditures or other programs that have similar purposes, intent or goals as the tax expenditure, and the extent to which such similar initiatives are coordinated, complementary or duplicative; (h) The extent to which the tax expenditure is a cost-effective use of resources compared to other options for using the same resources or addressing the same purposes, intent or goals; and (i) Any opportunities to improve the effectiveness of the tax expenditure in meeting its purposes, intent or goals; and (4) The performance measures appropriate for analyzing the evaluation objectives. Performance measures must be clear and relevant to the specific tax expenditure and the approved evaluation objectives. [PL 2017, c. 266, §2 (AMD).] B. Before final approval pursuant to paragraph A , the committee shall seek and consider input from the policy committee and stakeholders and may seek input from experts. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2017, c. 266, §2 (AMD).]

2. Action by office; report. The office shall submit a report on the results of each evaluation to the committee and the policy committee. The office shall seek stakeholder input as part of the report. For each tax expenditure evaluated, the report must include conclusions regarding the extent to which the tax expenditure is meeting its purposes, intent or goals and may include recommendations for continuation or repeal of the tax expenditure or modification of the tax expenditure to improve its performance. [PL 2017, c. 266, §3 (AMD).]

3. Action by committee. The committee shall review the report submitted by the office under subsection 2 , assess the report's objectivity and credibility and vote whether to endorse the report. The committee shall submit a record of the vote on any reports submitted by the office and any comments of or actions recommended by the committee to the policy committee for its review and consideration. [PL 2017, c. 266, §3 (AMD).]

4. Action by policy committee. The policy committee shall review the results of the tax expenditure evaluations and of the committee's review based on materials submitted under subsections 2 and 3 . The policy committee shall submit to the Legislature by the later of 90 days after receipt of materials submitted under subsections 2 and 3 and the adjournment sine die of the regular session during which the materials were received, if applicable, a report documenting its activities under this chapter and any recommendations resulting from its review of the materials submitted under subsections 2 and 3 . The policy committee may submit a bill to the Legislature to implement the policy committee's recommendations. [PL 2019, c. 161, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 906 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 31 / Section 906
3 §906. Interest in contracts prohibited
Status: in_force

No member of the commission may be interested directly or indirectly in any contract or contracts calling for the construction or improvements of facilities, buildings and grounds in the Capitol Area in the City of Augusta as described in Title 1, section 814 . [PL 1989, c. 410, §12 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 959 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 959
3 §959. Scheduling guideline for review of agencies or independent agencies
Status: in_force

1. Scheduling guidelines. Except as provided in subsection 2 , reviews of agencies or independent agencies must be scheduled in accordance with the following. Subsequent reviews must be scheduled on an ongoing basis every 8 years after the dates specified in this subsection. A. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture, conservation and forestry matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Baxter State Park Authority in 2025; (2) Board of Pesticides Control in 2027; (3) Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine in 2027; (4) Maine Dairy and Nutrition Council in 2023; (5) Maine Dairy Promotion Board in 2023; (6) Maine Milk Commission in 2023; (7) State Harness Racing Commission in 2023; (8) Maine Agricultural Bargaining Board in 2025; (9) Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in 2025; and (10) Land for Maine's Future Board in 2023. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] B. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over health coverage, insurance and financial services matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) State Employee Health Commission in 2025; and (2) Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, in conjunction with the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over innovation, development, economic advancement and business matters, in 2023. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] C. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over innovation, development, economic advancement and business matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Maine Development Foundation in 2029; (5) Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, in conjunction with the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over health coverage, insurance and financial services matters, in 2023; (19) Department of Economic and Community Development in 2029; (32) Finance Authority of Maine in 2025; and (45) State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] D. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over criminal justice and public safety matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Department of Public Safety, except for the Emergency Services Communication Bureau, in 2023; (2) Department of Corrections in 2027; and (3) The Maine Emergency Management Agency within the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management in 2023. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] E. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (2) Department of Education in 2029; (2-A) State Board of Education in 2029; (3) Maine Arts Commission in 2023; (5) Maine Historic Preservation Commission in 2023; (5-A) Notwithstanding section 952, Maine Historical Society in 2023; (6) Maine Library Commission in 2023; (6-A) Maine State Cultural Affairs Council in 2023; (6-B) Maine State Library in 2023; (6-C) Maine State Museum in 2023; (7) Maine State Museum Commission in 2023; (8) Office of State Historian in 2023; (9) Board of Trustees of the Maine Maritime Academy in 2025; (10) Board of Trustees of the University of Maine System in 2025; (12) Maine Community College System in 2025; and (13) Maine Health and Higher Educational Facilities Authority in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] F. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over health and human services matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (6) Department of Health and Human Services in 2025; (7) Board of the Maine Children's Trust Incorporated in 2027; and (9) Maine Developmental Disabilities Council in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] G. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in 2023; and (2) Advisory Board for the Licensing of Taxidermists in 2023. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] H. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (2) Maine Human Rights Commission in 2029; (3) Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission in 2027; and (4) Department of the Attorney General in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] I. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over labor matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (2) Department of Labor in 2023; (3) Maine Labor Relations Board in 2025; (4) Workers' Compensation Board in 2025; and (5) The paid family and medical leave benefits program established in Title 26, chapter 7, subchapter 6‑C in 2029. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. AAA, §1 (AMD).] J. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over veterans and legal affairs shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (2) State Liquor and Lottery Commission in 2023; (3) Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations with regard to the enforcement of the law relating to the manufacture, importation, storage, transportation and sale of all liquor and the laws relating to licensing and the collection of taxes on malt liquor and wine in 2023; (4) Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management in 2027, except for the Maine Emergency Management Agency within the department; and (5) Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Office of Cannabis Policy with regard to the administration and enforcement of the laws relating to the Cannabis Legalization Act and the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act in 2031. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. A, §1 (AMD).] K. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission in 2029; and (2) Department of Marine Resources in 2029. [PL 2023, c. 511, §1 (AMD).] L. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over environmental and natural resources matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Department of Environmental Protection in 2025; (2) Board of Environmental Protection in 2025; (4) Saco River Corridor Commission in 2029; and (5) Board of Underground Oil Tank Installers in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] M. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over state and local government matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Capitol Planning Commission in 2027; (1-A) Maine Governmental Facilities Authority in 2029; (2) State Civil Service Appeals Board in 2029; (3) State Claims Commission in 2029; (4) Maine Municipal Bond Bank in 2023; (5) Office of the Treasurer of State in 2023; (6) Department of Administrative and Financial Services, except for the Bureau of Revenue Services and the bureau or division within the department that administers and enforces the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act, in 2027; and (7) Department of the Secretary of State, except for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] N. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over taxation matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) State Board of Property Tax Review in 2027; and (2) Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Revenue Services in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] O. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Maine Turnpike Authority in 2029; (2) The Bureau of Motor Vehicles within the Department of the Secretary of State in 2023; (3) The Department of Transportation in 2025; and (4) Maine State Pilotage Commission in 2025. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] P. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over utilities and energy matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Public Advocate in 2027; (2) Board of Directors, Maine Municipal and Rural Electrification Cooperative Agency in 2023; (3) Public Utilities Commission, including the Emergency Services Communication Bureau, in 2029; and (5) Telecommunications Relay Services Council in 2025. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] Q. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over retirement matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Maine Public Employees Retirement System in 2029. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] R. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over professional licensing of health care professions matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Board of Dental Practice in 2027; (2) Board of Osteopathic Licensure in 2027; (3) Board of Licensure in Medicine in 2027; (4) State Board of Nursing in 2027; and (5) State Board of Optometry in 2027. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (AMD).] S. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. A, §2 (RP).] T. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over housing matters shall use the following list as a guideline for scheduling reviews: (1) Maine State Housing Authority in 2023. [PL 2021, c. 617, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 511, §1 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. A, §§1, 2 (AMD).]

2. Waiver. Notwithstanding this list of agencies arranged by year, an agency or independent agency may be reviewed at any time by the committee pursuant to section 954 . [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 456 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 456
3 §456. Statements and form of answers
Status: in_force

The witness or the witness's counsel may insert in the record sworn, written statements of reasonable length relevant to the subject matter and scope of the investigation. In giving testimony, the witness may explain the witness's answers briefly. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 414 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 414
3 §414. Oversight of expenditures
Status: in_force

The Legislative Council shall provide oversight of expenditures for legislative investigating committees in the same manner as it provides oversight of joint select committees pursuant to chapter 7 . [PL 1985, c. 377, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 121 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 5 / Section 121
3 §121. Notice of petitions affecting individuals or corporations
Status: in_force

Notice of any petition for legislation, affecting the rights of individuals or corporations, may be given by serving them with a true copy of the petition at least 14 days before the commencement of the next session, or by publishing such copy 3 weeks successively in a newspaper of general circulation in the counties in which such individuals reside or such corporations are established, the last publication to be at least 14 days before the session. If further service is deemed necessary, or if notice is defective or insufficient, further notice may be ordered. [PL 1987, c. 667, §2 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 956 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 956
3 §956. Program evaluation report
Status: in_force

1. Report required. Each agency and independent agency shall prepare and submit to the Legislature, through the committee of jurisdiction, a program evaluation report by a date specified by the committee. [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]

2. Program evaluation report; contents. Each report must include the following information in a concise but complete manner: A. Enabling or authorizing law or other relevant mandate, including any federal mandates; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] B. A description of each program administered by the agency or independent agency, including the following for each program: (1) Established priorities, including the goals and objectives in meeting each priority; (2) Performance measures or other benchmarks used by the agency to measure its progress in achieving the goals and objectives; and (3) An assessment by the agency indicating the extent to which it has met the goals and objectives, using the performance measures. When an agency has not met its goals and objectives, the agency shall identify the reasons for not meeting them and the corrective measures the agency has taken to meet the goals and objectives; [PL 2013, c. 307, §2 (AMD).] C. Organizational structure, including a position count, a job classification and an organizational flow chart indicating lines of responsibility; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] D. [PL 2013, c. 307, §3 (RP).] E. Financial summary, including sources of funding by program and the amounts allocated or appropriated and expended over the past 10 years; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] F. [PL 2013, c. 307, §4 (RP).] G. Identification of those areas where an agency has coordinated its efforts with other state and federal agencies in achieving program objectives and other areas in which an agency could establish cooperative arrangements, including, but not limited to, cooperative arrangements to coordinate services and eliminate redundant requirements; [PL 1999, c. 661, §1 (AMD).] H. Identification of the constituencies served by the agency or program, noting any changes or projected changes; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] I. A summary of efforts by an agency or program regarding the use of alternative delivery systems, including privatization, in meeting its goals and objectives; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] J. Identification of emerging issues for the agency or program in the coming years; [PL 1999, c. 661, §1 (AMD).] K. Any other information specifically requested by the committee of jurisdiction; [PL 2001, c. 321, Pt. A, §1 (AMD).] L. A comparison of any related federal laws and regulations to the state laws governing the agency or program and the rules implemented by the agency or program; [PL 2001, c. 495, §1 (AMD).] M. Agency policies for collecting, managing and using personal information over the Internet and nonelectronically, information on the agency's implementation of information technologies and an evaluation of the agency's adherence to the fair information practice principles of notice, choice, access, integrity and enforcement; [PL 2013, c. 110, §2 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 307, §5 (AMD).] N. A list of reports, applications and other similar paperwork required to be filed with the agency by the public. The list must include: (1) The statutory authority for each filing requirement; (2) The date each filing requirement was adopted or last amended by the agency; (3) The frequency that filing is required; (4) The number of filings received annually for the last 2 years and the number anticipated to be received annually for the next 2 years; and (5) A description of the actions taken or contemplated by the agency to reduce filing requirements and paperwork duplication; [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §1 (RPR).] O. A list of reports required by the Legislature to be prepared or submitted by the agency or independent agency; [RR 2013, c. 1, §4 (COR).] Revisor's Note: (Paragraph O as enacted by PL 2013, c. 110, §4 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 3, SECTION 956, SUBSECTION 2, PARAGRAPH Q) P. A copy of the single-page list of organizational units and programs within each organizational unit required pursuant to section 955, subsection 1 , placed at the front of the report; and [RR 2013, c. 1, §4 (COR).] Q. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 3, §956, sub-§2, ¶O) Identification of provisions contained in the agency's or independent agency's enabling or authorizing statutes that may require legislative review to determine the necessity of amendment to align the statutes with federal law, other state law or decisions of the United States Supreme Court or the Supreme Judicial Court. [RR 2013, c. 1, §3 (RAL).] [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 222 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 10 / Section 222
3 §222. Policy and purpose
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds that there exists between Maine and its neighboring Canadian Provinces of New Brunswick, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, a broad range of shared experience, cultural traditions, social and economic conditions and common goals, including shared recognition of the urgent need to strengthen human services, to effectively use and conserve our natural resources and to pursue economic development within a framework of responsible environmental regulation. [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

The Legislature further finds that Maine enjoys with these provinces an increasing level of cooperation, commerce and other interaction as the opportunity and need for this interaction are increasingly recognized by both public and private officials. [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

The Legislature declares that it attaches the highest importance to the pursuit of common goals and to the further strengthening of relations in all areas between Maine and the Canadian Provinces. [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

The Legislature further declares that one of the best ways of pursuing these common goals and of strengthening these relations is to encourage understanding and cooperation between itself and the legislative bodies of the Canadian Provinces and thus between the citizens of Maine and those of the Provinces of Canada. [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 960 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 960
3 §960. Future or reorganized agencies and independent agencies
Status: in_force

The chief staff administrator of a newly created or substantially reorganized agency or independent agency shall contact the committee to ensure placement of that agency or independent agency in the scheduling guideline outlined in section 959 . The committee and the Legislative Council shall determine the placement of that agency or independent agency in the scheduling guideline. [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 733 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 733
3 §733. Actuary
Status: in_force

The actuary of the other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System is the Actuary of the Legislative Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §11 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 2 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 2
3 §2. Salary, compensation and travel-related expenses of Members of the Legislature and representatives of Indian tribes
Status: in_force

Each member of the Senate and House of Representatives, beginning with the first Wednesday of December 2000 until the day before the first Wednesday of December 2024, is entitled to $10,815 in the first year and $7,725 in the 2nd year of each biennium, except that if a Legislator who is a recipient of retirement benefits from the federal Social Security Administration files a written request with the Executive Director of the Legislative Council within one week after the biennium commences, the Legislator is entitled to $9,270 in each year of the biennium. Beginning with the first Wednesday of December 2024, each member of the Senate and House of Representatives is entitled to $25,000 in the first year and $20,000 in the 2nd year of each biennium, except that if a Legislator who is a recipient of retirement benefits from the federal Social Security Administration files a written request with the Executive Director of the Legislative Council within one week after the biennium commences, the Legislator is entitled to $22,500 in each year of the biennium. Each member of the Senate and the House of Representatives must receive a cost-of-living adjustment in annual legislative salary, except that the percentage increase may not exceed 5% in any year, and except that the percentage increase may not exceed 3% beginning with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014. Beginning December 1, 2001, the salary for each legislative session must be adjusted each December 1st by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for the most recently concluded fiscal year; except that a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives may not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in annual legislative salary for the Second Regular Session of the 124th Legislature, and except that a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives may not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in annual legislative salary for the Second Regular Session of the 125th Legislature and the First Regular Session and the Second Regular Session of the 126th Legislature, and any percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2011, June 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013 may not be applied to the base salary. In addition, each Legislator is entitled to be paid mileage for travel at each legislative session to and from that Legislator's place of abode at a rate of 55¢ per mile or the federal standard mileage rate, whichever is lower, the mileage to be determined by the most reasonable direct route, except that Legislators may be reimbursed for tolls paid for travel on the Maine Turnpike as long as they have a receipt for payment of the tolls, such tolls to be reimbursed when Legislators use the Maine Turnpike in traveling to and from sessions of the Legislature or in performance of duly authorized committee assignments. Each Legislator is entitled to mileage on the first day of the session, and those amounts of salary and expenses at such times as the Legislature may determine during the session, and the balance at the end of the session, except that, effective January 1, 2026, a Legislator may choose to be paid the salary for each year of the biennium to which that Legislator is entitled pursuant to this section in approximately equal payments over that corresponding year of the biennium, and a Legislator who chooses this option must do so prior to the beginning of each regular session. [PL 2025, c. 482, §1 (AMD).]

The first regular session of the Legislature, after its convening, shall adjourn no later than the 3rd Wednesday in June and the 2nd regular session of the Legislature shall adjourn no later than the 3rd Wednesday in April. The Legislature, in case of emergency, may by a vote of 2/3 of the members of each House present and voting, extend the date for adjournment for the first or 2nd regular session by no more than 5 legislative days, and in case of further emergency, may by a vote of 2/3 of the members of each House present and voting, further extend the date for adjournment by 5 additional legislative days. The times for adjournment for the first and 2nd regular sessions may also be extended for one additional legislative day for the purpose of considering possible objections of the Governor to any bill or resolution presented to the Governor by the Legislature under the Constitution of Maine, Article IV, Part Third, Section 2. [PL 2019, c. 475, §11 (AMD).]

A member of the Senate or House of Representatives may not be absent without leave for more than 5 legislative days in the first regular session or for more than 3 legislative days in the second regular session. A member who violates this paragraph must have the member's salary reduced by an amount as determined by the Legislative Council for each legislative day of absence without leave. At the beginning of each Legislature, the Legislative Council shall establish policies and procedures to record attendance for each legislative day and set the salary reduction for members who violate this paragraph. [PL 2015, c. 134, §1 (NEW).]

Except as provided in this section, each member of the Senate and House of Representatives is entitled to the travel-related expenses of a meal allowance in the amount of $50, or a higher amount set by the Legislative Council, and a housing allowance in the amount of $70, or a higher amount set by the Legislative Council, for each day in attendance at sessions of the Legislature and for each day the member occupies overnight accommodations away from home either immediately preceding or immediately following attendance at daily sessions of the Legislature. The presiding officers may establish reasonable policies regarding allowances for meals and overnight accommodations for the day immediately preceding the session, which may include policies regarding whether an allowance is paid, whether the full amount or a portion of the allowance is paid and whether receipts are required. In lieu of the meal and housing allowance, each member is entitled to a daily meal allowance and actual daily mileage. Each member of the Senate also receives an annual allowance for constituent services in the amount of $2,000, $1,300 in January and $700 in the month following adjournment of the regular session. Each member of the House of Representatives also receives an annual allowance for constituent services in the amount of $1,500, $1,005 in January and $495 in the month following adjournment of the regular session. Notwithstanding this section, during the first regular session of each legislative biennium, a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives may elect to receive the first payment of the annual allowance for constituent services in December following convening of the Legislature by notifying the Executive Director of the Legislative Council in the manner prescribed by the executive director. The Executive Director of the Legislative Council shall inform Legislators of the choice available for payment of the allowance for constituent services in the first year of the legislative biennium and of any tax implications associated with exercising that choice. To set the amount of an allowance under this paragraph, at least 6 members of the Legislative Council must vote in favor of the allowance at the beginning of the first regular session or second regular session of a legislative biennium. The amount of an allowance set by the Legislative Council under this paragraph may not exceed the regular federal per diem rate for lodging, meals and incidental expenses applicable to that allowance. [PL 2025, c. 490, §1 (AMD).]

Each member of the Senate and House of Representatives must be reimbursed for actual regular airfare expenses from the member's place of abode to Augusta for one round trip each week when the Legislature is in regular session and, when the Legislature is not in regular session, for days when meetings or daily sessions are held, as long as the distance from the member's place of abode to Augusta is more than 150 miles, the mileage is determined by the most reasonable direct route and reimbursement is capped at commercial flight rate. [PL 2019, c. 475, §12 (AMD).]

The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall receive an additional 50% above regular compensation, the majority and minority leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives shall receive an additional 25% above regular compensation and the assistant majority and minority leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives shall receive an additional 12 1/2% above regular compensation. [PL 1975, c. 750, §1 (RPR).]

In addition to the salary paid for the first and 2nd regular sessions of the Legislature, when a special session is called, the members of the Senate and House of Representatives must each be compensated $100 for every day's attendance, expenses and mileage pursuant to this section; except that if a special session is called during the time period specified in this section for a first regular session or 2nd regular session, the special session per diem does not apply. [PL 2003, c. 691, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 691, §2 (AFF).]

No additional expenses may be paid to Legislators from the Legislative Account unless authorized by the President of the Senate or Speaker of the House of Representatives during any regular session. [PL 1985, c. 693, §5 (AMD).]

The member of the Penobscot Indian Nation, the member of the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe and, beginning with the Second Regular Session of the 125th Legislature, the member of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians elected to represent their tribes at the Legislature are entitled to receive a salary equal to the salary of members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, including a cost-of-living adjustment, for each regular session and an allowance for constituent service and allowances for travel-related expenses, which are housing, meals, mileage and tolls, to the same extent as members of the House of Representatives for attendance at each legislative session or authorized committee meeting. For the duration of any special session of the Legislature, they are entitled to receive the same per diem payment and allowances, including travel-related expenses, which are housing, meals, mileage and tolls, as any member of the Senate and House of Representatives. [PL 2023, c. 2, §4 (AMD).]

The President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House shall, at all times, whether the Legislature be in session or not, have the authority to approve accounts and vouchers for payment. [PL 1975, c. 750, §1 (RPR).]

The President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the floor leaders and their assistants and members of a committee, with the approval of the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives as to members of a committee, may also meet on days when the Legislature is not in daily session at any convenient location within the State. Each member of the Senate and House of Representatives is entitled to receive $55 for every day's attendance when meetings or daily sessions are held and the travel-related expenses of a meal allowance in the amount of $50, or a higher amount set by the Legislative Council, and a housing allowance whereby actual lodging expenses will be reimbursed at the single-room rate, as long as a receipt is submitted to the Executive Director of the Legislative Council for each day in attendance at such meetings or daily sessions and for each day that member occupies overnight accommodations away from home either immediately preceding or immediately following attendance at daily sessions of the Legislature and actual daily mileage allowances at the rate of 55¢ per mile or the federal standard mileage rate, whichever is lower, for travel to and from that Legislator's place of abode, the mileage to be determined by the most reasonable direct route. In lieu of the meal and housing allowance, each member is entitled to a daily meal allowance and actual daily mileage allowances. To set the amount of an allowance under this paragraph, at least 6 members of the Legislative Council must vote in favor of the allowance at the beginning of the first regular session or second regular session of a legislative biennium. The amount of an allowance set by the Legislative Council under this paragraph may not exceed the regular federal per diem rate for lodging, meals and incidental expenses applicable to that allowance. [PL 2025, c. 490, §2 (AMD).]

The expenses of members of the Legislature traveling outside the State shall be reimbursed for their actual expenses provided that the expense vouchers are approved by the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives. [PL 1977, c. 564, §2 (NEW).]

If a member of the Legislature dies or otherwise vacates the office, the successor is entitled to a salary from the date of seating equal to the salary that would have been afforded to the successor had the successor been seated at the start of the biennium, except that the salary must be prorated from the date the successor is sworn into office. [PL 2025, c. 490, §3 (AMD).]

Legislators may purchase one set of the Maine Revised Statutes Annotated at the State's cost, which may not be resold. [RR 2013, c. 2, §3 (COR).]
3 M.R.S. § 701 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 701
3 §701. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

1. Accumulated contributions. "Accumulated contributions" means the sum of all the amounts credited to a member's individual account, together with regular interest on the account. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

2. Actuarial equivalent. "Actuarial equivalent" means an amount of equal value when computed at the discount rate contained in actuarial assumptions adopted by the board of trustees. [PL 2021, c. 548, §1 (AMD).]

3. Average final compensation. "Average final compensation" means the average annual rate of earnable compensation of a member during the 3 years of creditable service, not necessarily consecutive, in which the average annual rate of earnable compensation is highest or during the member's entire period of creditable service if the period is less than 3 years. [PL 1991, c. 580, §1 (AMD).]

4. Beneficiary. "Beneficiary" means any person who receives or is designated to receive a benefit provided by this chapter. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

5. Board of trustees. "Board of trustees" means the board provided for in section 731 . [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

6. Child or children. [PL 1989, c. 133, §1 (RP).]

7. Consumer Price Index. [PL 1989, c. 133, §1 (RP).]

8. Creditable service. "Creditable service" means service rendered while a member of the former Maine Legislative Retirement System, the Legislative Retirement Program, the former Maine State Retirement System or the State and Teacher Retirement Program for which credit is allowed under section 802 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §3 (AMD).]

9. Earnable compensation. "Earnable compensation" means the actual compensation of a Legislator. Any money paid by the State under an annuity contract for the future benefit of a Legislator is considered part of the Legislator's earnable compensation. The earnable compensation of a member retired with a disability retirement allowance under section 853 is assumed, for the purposes of determining benefits under this chapter, to be continued after the Legislator's date of termination of service at the same rate as received immediately prior to that time, subject to the same percentage adjustments, if any, that may apply to the amount of retirement allowance of the beneficiary under section 858 . [PL 2019, c. 475, §31 (AMD).]

10. Father. [PL 1989, c. 133, §1 (RP).]

10-A. Internal Revenue Code. "Internal Revenue Code" or "Code" means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. [PL 2009, c. 474, §1 (NEW).]

11. Legislator. "Legislator" means a member of the Legislature who is actively serving as of December 3, 1986, or who is elected subsequent to December 2, 1986. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

11-A. Medical provider. [PL 2021, c. 277, §1 (RP); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

12. Member. "Member" means a Legislator who is included in the membership of the Legislative Retirement Program, as provided in section 801 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §4 (AMD).]

13. Mother. [PL 1989, c. 133, §1 (RP).]

14. Parent. [PL 1989, c. 133, §1 (RP).]

15. Regular interest. "Regular interest" means interest at the rate which the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System sets from time to time, in accordance with Title 5, section 17156 . [PL 1989, c. 133, §2 (AMD); PL 2007, c. 58, §3 (REV).]

16. Retirement. "Retirement" means the termination of membership service with a retirement allowance granted under this chapter. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

17. Spouse. [PL 1989, c. 133, §3 (RP).]
3 M.R.S. § 412 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 412
3 §412. Scope of study or investigation
Status: in_force

The authorization creating an investigating committee shall clearly state, and thereby limit, the subject matter and scope of the study or investigation. No investigating committee shall exceed the limits set forth in such authorization. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 952 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 952
3 §952. Scope
Status: in_force

This chapter provides for a system of periodic review of agencies and independent agencies of State Government in order to evaluate their efficacy and performance. Only those agencies, independent agencies or parts of those agencies and independent agencies that receive support from the General Fund or that are established, created or incorporated by reference in the Maine Revised Statutes are subject to the provisions of this chapter. The financial and programmatic review must include, but is not limited to, a review of agency management and organization, program delivery, agency goals and objectives, statutory mandate and fiscal accountability. [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 454 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 454
3 §454. Who can compel testimony
Status: in_force

The committee chair may direct compliance with any request for testimony to which objection has been made. However, the chair's direction may be overruled by investigating committee action. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 22 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 22
3 §22. Secretary and assistant secretary; salaries and duties
Status: in_force

The Secretary of the Senate shall perform the usual duties of the office during the session of the Legislature, file and index all papers that have been subject to adverse legislative action and index and supervise the preparation of the permanent senate journal. The secretary shall perform the duties required by sections 21 and 23 . The secretary shall deliver to the State Archivist all papers on file in the office of the Secretary of the Senate that were considered by a session of the Legislature held more than 5 years previously, and the State Archivist shall inspect those papers and preserve those having permanent value. [PL 2019, c. 475, §14 (AMD).]

The Assistant Secretary of the Senate is entitled to a salary as provided by law and shall work under the direction of the secretary. [PL 2019, c. 475, §14 (AMD).]

All fees, charges, emoluments and other receipts of whatever nature that may be payable to the Secretary of the Senate, the Assistant Secretary of the Senate or any employee thereof, excepting their lawful salaries and expenses properly payable to them, must be credited to the General Fund and no Secretary of the Senate, Assistant Secretary of the Senate or employee may directly or indirectly receive a private benefit or gain from the sale or distribution of any material, information or reports from the records of such Secretary of the Senate. [PL 2019, c. 475, §14 (AMD).]

The President of the Senate may authorize the Secretary of the Senate and the Assistant Secretary of the Senate to serve on a full-time basis when the Legislature is not in regular or special session. [PL 1983, c. 32, Pt. I, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 997 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 997
3 §997. Conduct and issuance of program evaluation reports
Status: in_force

The director and the office shall adhere to the following provisions relative to conducting and issuing program evaluation reports under this chapter. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

1. Review and response. Prior to the presentation of a program evaluation under this chapter to the committee by the office, the director of the evaluated state agency or other entity must have an opportunity to review a draft of the program evaluation report. Within 15 calendar days of receipt of the draft report, the director of the evaluated state agency or other entity may provide to the office comments on the draft report. If provided to the office by the comment deadline, the comments must be included in the final report when it is presented to the committee. Failure by the director of an evaluated agency or other entity to submit its comments on the draft report by the comment deadline may not delay the submission of a report to the committee or its release to the public. All documents, writings, drafts, electronic communications and information transmitted pursuant to this subsection are confidential and may not be released to the public. A person violating the provisions of this subsection regarding confidentiality is guilty of a Class E crime. [PL 2019, c. 667, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]

2. Submission of final report to committee. The director shall notify the committee when each final program evaluation report under this chapter is completed. The report must then be placed on the agenda for a future committee meeting. At the meeting where a report appears on the agenda for the first time, the director will release that report to the committee and to the public simultaneously. The committee, at its discretion, may vote to endorse, to endorse in part or to decline to endorse the report submitted by the director. If the committee determines it is necessary, the committee may report out to the Legislature legislation to implement the findings and recommendations of any program evaluation report presented to it by the office. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

3. Confidentiality. Working papers in the possession of the director or an entity with which the director has contracted for the conduct of program evaluations pursuant to section 995, subsection 2 are confidential and exempt from disclosure pursuant to Title 1, chapter 13 , including disclosure to the Legislative Council or an agent or representative of the Legislative Council. All other records or materials in the possession of the director or an entity with which the director has contracted for the conduct of program evaluations pursuant to section 995, subsection 2 that would otherwise be confidential or exempt from disclosure are exempt from disclosure pursuant to the provisions of Title 1, chapter 13 . This subsection may not be construed to prohibit or prevent public access to the records of a state agency or other entity in the possession of the director that would otherwise be subject to disclosure pursuant to the provisions of Title 1, chapter 13 . The director shall refer requests for access to those records directly to the state agency or other entity that is the official custodian of the requested records, which shall respond to the request for public records. [PL 2019, c. 667, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

4. Information available to office. Upon request of the office and consistent with the conditions and procedures set forth in this section, state agencies or other entities subject to program evaluation must provide the office access to information that is privileged or confidential as defined by Title 1, chapter 13 , which governs public records and proceedings. A. Before beginning a program evaluation under this chapter that may require access to records containing confidential or privileged information, the office shall furnish a written statement of its determination that it is necessary for the office to access such records and consult with representatives of the state agency or other entity to discuss methods of identifying and protecting privileged or confidential information in those records. During that consultation, the state agency or other entity shall inform the office of all standards and procedures set forth in its policies or agreements to protect information considered to be confidential or privileged. The office shall limit its access to information that is privileged or confidential by appropriate methods, which may include examining records without copying or removing them from the source. [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §9 (AMD).] B. Documentary or other information obtained by the office during the course of a program evaluation under this chapter is privileged or confidential to the same extent under law that that information would be privileged or confidential in the possession of the state agency or other entity providing the information. Any privilege or statutory provision, including penalties, concerning the confidentiality or obligation not to disclose information in the possession of a state agency or other entity or its officers or employees applies equally to the office. Privileged or confidential information obtained by the office during the course of a program evaluation may be disclosed only as provided by law and with the agreement of the state agency or other entity subject to the program evaluation that provided the information. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).] C. If the office accesses information classified as privileged or confidential pursuant to state agency or other entity policy or procedures or by agreement, the office shall comply with the state agency's or other entity's standards or procedures for handling that information. The office may include in its working papers the excerpts from information classified as confidential or privileged as may be necessary to complete the program evaluation under this chapter, as long as the use does not infringe on department policies or procedures applicable to the original provision of information. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §9 (AMD).]

5. Disclosure to agency or entity subject to program evaluation. Except as provided in this subsection, working papers are confidential pursuant to subsection 3 and may not be disclosed to any person. Prior to the release of the final program evaluation report, the director has sole discretion to disclose working papers to the state agency or other entity subject to the program evaluation when disclosure will not prejudice the program evaluation. After release of the final program evaluation report, working papers may be released as necessary to the state agency or other entity that was subject to the program evaluation under this chapter. [PL 2019, c. 667, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

6. Confidential sources. If data supplied by an individual are needed to initiate, continue or complete a program evaluation under this chapter, the director may, by written memorandum to the file, provide that the individual's identity will remain confidential and exempt from disclosure under Title 1, chapter 13 , and this written memorandum protects the identity of the person from disclosure under Title 1, chapter 13 , notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

7. Disposition of final report. A final copy of a program evaluation report under subsection 2 , including recommendations and the evaluated state agency's or other entity's comments, must be submitted to the commissioner or director of the state agency or other entity examined at least one day prior to the report's public release, and must be made available to each member of the Legislature no later than one day following the report's receipt by the committee. The office may satisfy the requirement to provide each Legislator a copy of the report by furnishing the report directly by electronic means or by providing notice to each Legislator of the availability of the report on the office's publicly accessible site on the Internet. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 852 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 852
3 §852. Retirement benefits
Status: in_force

1. Amount. The service retirement allowance of a member shall be determined under this chapter in effect on the member's date of final termination of service. Subject to the minimum benefit provided for in paragraph B , the total amount of the retirement allowance of a member retired in accordance with section 851 shall be equal to: A. One-fiftieth of the member's average final compensation multiplied by the number of years of creditable service allowed under section 802 ; and [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).] B. Any member who has 10 or more years of creditable service at retirement shall be entitled to a minimum of $100 per month. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).] [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 961 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 961
3 §961. Legislative Council
Status: in_force

The Legislative Council shall issue rules necessary for the efficient administration of this chapter and shall provide the committees of jurisdiction with assistance as required to carry out the purposes of this chapter. [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 313-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 313-A
3 §313-A. Registration of state employees or state agency employees
Status: in_force

Within 15 business days of the convening of a regular legislative session, a department or agency shall register with the commission those state employees or state agency employees who will serve as the department's or agency's legislative designees for the session by submitting to the commission a list that must include the name and position of each employee, the name of the department or agency and the name of the bureau or division within the department for which each employee works and the mailing address, e-mail address and phone number of each employee. The department or agency shall notify the commission in writing of any changes of its designees within 15 business days of the change. [PL 2019, c. 587, §8 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]

1. Legislative designee. [PL 2007, c. 630, §9 (RP).]

2. Lobbying requirements. [PL 2007, c. 630, §9 (RP).]

An employee who is required to be registered under this section is exempt from all other requirements under the law regarding lobbyists. [PL 2007, c. 630, §9 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 858 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 858
3 §858. Cost-of-living and other adjustments
Status: in_force

Retirement allowances under this chapter must be adjusted on the same basis as provided for members of the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program by Title 5, section 17806 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §31 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 155 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 6 / Section 155
3 §155. Preliminary procedures
Status: in_force

The chairs of the appropriate joint standing committee shall: [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

1. Schedule prehearing conference. Schedule a prehearing conference in cooperation with the Legislative Information Office. The prehearing conference must be held within 21 days of the posting date; [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Request reports. Request background reports from the partisan staff assistants; and [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

3. Inform nominee. Advise the nominee of the date of the prehearing conference and the deadline for completion of a questionnaire from the committee and submission of supplemental materials by the nominee. The deadline is 15 days from the posting date unless the 15th day is not a business day, in which case the deadline is the next business day. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 993 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 993
3 §993. Committee membership; chairs
Status: in_force

The membership of the committee and the selection of chairs are established by joint rule of the Legislature. Beginning with the 132nd Legislature, at least one member of the committee must be a member of the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over taxation matters. [PL 2025, c. 86, §1 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 86, §2 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 2-B — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-B
3 §2-B. State Compensation Commission
Status: in_force

1. State Compensation Commission; membership. The State Compensation Commission, established in Title 5, section 12004‑G, subsection 26‑D and referred to in this section as the "commission," consists of 5 members appointed in January of every odd-numbered year at the first regular session of each Legislature as follows: A. Two members appointed by the President of the Senate; [PL 2017, c. 242, §1 (AMD).] B. Two members appointed by the Speaker of the House; and [PL 2017, c. 242, §1 (AMD).] C. One member appointed by a majority of the members appointed under paragraphs A and B , who serves as chair of the commission. [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] The 5 members must be residents of the State and appointed from the public. A person may not be appointed who is currently or has previously been a Legislator or a legislative employee. All members must be appointed for a term to coincide with the legislative biennium. A vacancy must be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the balance of the unexpired term. The members of the commission are entitled to a per diem, expenses and allowances at the same rate as Legislators. [PL 2017, c. 242, §1 (AMD).]

2. Duties of commission. No later than January 15th of every even-numbered year the commission shall submit to the Legislature and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over state and local government matters a final report of the commission. In the last year of each gubernatorial term of office, the report must contain a recommendation for compensation of the Governor as established in Title 2, section 1 . A report under this subsection must contain: A. A description of the commission's activities; [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] B. The recommendations of the commission: (1-A) For the report required in the last year of a gubernatorial term, for compensation for the Governor, including all payments for salaries, meals, housing, travel, mileage, constituent services and all other expenses and allowances; (1-B) For compensation for justices and judges, including all payments for salaries, meals, housing, travel, mileage and all other expenses and allowances, and for additional services by any justice or judge. Nothing in this subparagraph prevents the judicial branch from making recommendations to the Governor or Legislature for compensation for justices and judges, including, but not limited to, recommendations made by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court in preparing the budget of the judicial branch as required by Title 4, section 1 ; and (1-C) For compensation of Legislators, representatives of Indian tribes, Secretary and Assistant Secretary of the Senate and Clerk and Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives, including all payments for salaries, meals, housing, travel, mileage, constituent services and all other expenses and allowances, and for additional services by the President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives and members of legislative leadership; [PL 2019, c. 384, §1 (AMD).] C. The reasons for its recommendations; [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] D. Drafts of any legislation required to implement its recommendations; and [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] E. Any other material and recommendations that commission members may wish to submit. [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] Before reporting as required in this subsection and subsequent to giving public notice, the commission shall hold a public hearing on the report. Subsequent to reporting, the commission shall meet, if requested, with the Governor, the Legislative Council and legislative committees to discuss the report. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over state and local government matters may introduce a bill based upon the final report of the commission. [PL 2019, c. 384, §1 (AMD).]

3. Appointments; meetings. The Executive Director of the Legislative Council must be notified by the presiding officers once the appointment of the initial 4 members has been made. Within 15 days of the appointment of the initial 4 members, the Chair of the Legislative Council shall call and convene the first meeting of the commission. [PL 1999, c. 2, §1 (AMD).]

4. Staff assistance. The commission shall request staff assistance from the Legislative Council. [PL 1997, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]

5. Legislation. The commission may submit legislation required to implement its recommendations. [PL 1999, c. 2, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 452 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 452
3 §452. Questioning of adverse witnesses
Status: in_force

The witness or the witness's counsel may question adverse witnesses whose testimony is being taken in open session. However, the chair of the investigating committee may reasonably limit the right to so question. The chair's ruling is final, unless otherwise decided by investigating committee action. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 455 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 455
3 §455. Television, films, radio
Status: in_force

Any decision to televise, film or broadcast testimony is investigating committee action. If the witness or the witness's counsel objects to a decision to televise, film or broadcast the witness's testimony, the witness's testimony may not be televised, filmed or broadcast. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 457 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 457
3 §457. Privileges
Status: in_force

The witness must be given the benefit of any privilege which the witness could have claimed in court as a party to a civil action, provided that the committee chair may direct compliance with any request for testimony to which claim of privilege has been made. However, the chair's direction may be overruled by investigating committee action. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 312-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 312-A
3 §312-A. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following words have the following meanings. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

1. Campaign fund raising activity. "Campaign fund raising activity" means any event or solicitation by letter or any other means that is held for the purpose of receiving contributions for a political party, political committee, political action committee, candidate for political office in any primary or election, any elected official or a referendum committee. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §1 (AMD); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).]

1-A. Campaign contribution. "Campaign contribution" is a contribution, as defined in Title 21‑A, section 1012, subsection 2 . [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).]

2. Committee. "Committee" means any committee, subcommittee, joint or select committee of the Legislature or any special committee or commission, by whatever name, established by the Legislature to make recommendations for legislative action or to develop legislation. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

2-A. Commission. "Commission" means the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices as defined in Title 1, chapter 25 . [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §1 (NEW).]

3. Communicate. "Communicate" means the act of expressing, imparting or conveying information or impressions from one person to another, by either oral or written means. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

4. Compensation. "Compensation" means anything of value that is received or to be received in return for, or in connection with, services rendered or to be rendered. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §3 (AMD).]

4-A. Covered official. "Covered official" means an official in the executive branch, an official in the legislative branch, a constitutional officer, the Governor and the Governor's cabinet and staff. [PL 2007, c. 630, §1 (NEW).]

4-B. Domestic partner. [PL 2021, c. 567, §3 (RP).]

5. Employer. "Employer" means a person who agrees to reimburse for expenditures or to compensate a person who in return agrees to provide services. Employer includes any political action committee as defined in this section which communicates through or uses the services of a lobbyist to make campaign contributions or to influence in any way the political process. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

6. Employment. "Employment" means an agreement to provide services in exchange for compensation or reimbursement of expenditures. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

7. Expenditure. "Expenditure" means anything of value or any contract, promise or agreement to transfer anything of value, whether or not legally enforceable. A. [PL 1993, c. 691, §4 (RP).] B. [PL 2007, c. 630, §3 (RP).] C. [PL 2007, c. 630, §3 (RP).] [PL 2007, c. 630, §3 (AMD).]

7-A. Immediate family. "Immediate family" means a person's spouse or domestic partner and dependent children. [PL 2007, c. 630, §4 (AMD).]

7-B. Grassroots lobbying. "Grassroots lobbying" means to communicate with members of the general public to solicit them to communicate directly with any covered official for the purpose of influencing legislative action, other than legislation that is before the Legislature as a result of a direct initiative in accordance with the Constitution of Maine, Article IV, Part Third, Section 18, when that solicitation is made by: A. A broadcast, cable or satellite transmission; [PL 2009, c. 282, §1 (NEW).] B. A communication delivered by print media; [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] C. A letter or other written communication delivered by mail or by comparable delivery service; [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] D. A communication delivered by e-mail, a website or any other digital format; [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] E. Telephone; or [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] F. A method of communication similar to those listed in paragraphs A to E . [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] "Grassroots lobbying" does not include a person communicating with the person's stockholders, employees, board members, officers or dues-paying members. [PL 2019, c. 599, §1 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).]

8. Legislative action. "Legislative action" means the drafting, introduction, consideration, modification, enactment or defeat of any bill, resolution, amendment, report, nomination or other matter by the Legislature, by either the House of Representatives or the Senate, any committee or an official in the Legislative Branch acting in the official's official capacity, or action of the Governor in approving or vetoing any legislative document presented to the Governor for the Governor's approval. [PL 2019, c. 475, §25 (AMD).]

8-A. Legislative designee. "Legislative designee" means any employee of a state department or agency who is designated by the head of the department or agency as the primary employee to lobby on behalf of the department or agency or who is reasonably expected to lobby on behalf of the department or agency for more than 10 hours during a legislative session. [PL 2019, c. 587, §3 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]

9. Lobbying. "Lobbying" means to communicate directly with any official in the legislative branch or any official in the executive branch or with a constitutional officer for the purpose of influencing any legislative action or with the Governor or the Governor's cabinet and staff for the purpose of influencing the approval or veto of a legislative action when reimbursement for expenditures or compensation is made for those activities. "Lobbying" includes the time spent to prepare and submit to the Governor, an official in the legislative branch, an official in the executive branch, a constitutional officer or a legislative committee oral and written proposals for, or testimony or analyses concerning, a legislative action. "Lobbying" does not include time spent by any person providing information to or participating in a subcommittee, stakeholder group, task force or other work group regarding a legislative action by the appointment or at the request of the Governor, a Legislator or legislative committee, a constitutional officer, a state agency commissioner or the chair of a state board or commission. [PL 2007, c. 630, §6 (AMD).]

9-A. Lobbying firm. "Lobbying firm" means a partnership, corporation, limited liability company or unincorporated association that employs or contracts with more than one lobbyist or lobbyist associate and that receives or is entitled to receive compensation for engaging in lobbying either directly or through its employees. [PL 2019, c. 587, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]

10. Lobbyist. "Lobbyist" means any person who is specifically employed by another person for the purpose of and who engages in lobbying in excess of 8 hours in any calendar month, or any individual who, as a regular employee of another person, expends an amount of time in excess of 8 hours in any calendar month in lobbying. "Lobbyist" does not include a lobbyist associate. "Lobbyist" does not include an individual who receives no compensation for lobbying other than reimbursement for lobbying-related travel within the State and reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures made by the individual for printing, postage and food and lodging connected with lobbying activities paid for by the individual. For the purposes of this subsection, "reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures" does not include reimbursement for the individual's time spent lobbying that would have been otherwise compensated by an employer or in the course of the individual's employment. [PL 2009, c. 234, §1 (AMD).]

10-A. Lobbyist associate. "Lobbyist associate" means an individual who: A. Is a partner, associate or employee of a lobbyist or is a coemployee of a regular employee of another person if that regular employee is registered as a lobbyist; [PL 1993, c. 691, §6 (NEW).] B. Lobbies on behalf of the employer named on the lobbyist registration; and [PL 1993, c. 691, §6 (NEW).] C. Expends more than 8 hours in any calendar month lobbying on behalf of an employer of the lobbyist. [PL 1993, c. 691, §6 (NEW).] [PL 1993, c. 691, §6 (RPR).]

10-B. Media outlet. "Media outlet" means a radio or television station, a cable television system, newspapers, magazines and other published written materials. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

10-C. Official in the executive branch. "Official in the executive branch" means an individual in a major policy-influencing position in a department or agency listed in section 959 or in Title 5, chapter 71 and the Governor's cabinet and staff. As used in this chapter, "major policy-influencing position" means those positions listed in Title 5, chapter 71 and officers or employees of departments and agencies listed in section 959 and in Title 5, chapter 71 who have policy development as a major function of their positions. [PL 2007, c. 630, §7 (AMD).]

11. Official in the Legislative Branch. "Official in the Legislative Branch" means a member, member-elect, candidate for or officer of the Legislature or an employee of the Legislature. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

11-A. Original source. "Original source" means any person who pays $1,000 or more in any lobbying year directly or indirectly to any employer of a lobbyist for purposes of lobbying or grassroots lobbying or to any other person for purposes of grassroots lobbying, except that payments of membership dues to nonprofit corporations formed under Title 13‑B , under any equivalent state law or by legislative enactment are not considered payments by an original source. [PL 2021, c. 293, Pt. B, §1 (RPR); PL 2021, c. 293, Pt. C, §1 (RPR).]

12. Person. "Person" means an individual, corporation, proprietorship, joint stock company, business trust, syndicate, association, professional association, labor union, firm, partnership, club or other organization, whether profit or nonprofit, or any municipality or quasi-municipality or group of persons acting in concert, but does not include this State or any other agency of this State. [PL 1993, c. 691, §8 (AMD).]

13. Political Action Committee. "Political Action Committee" includes: A. Any separate or segregated fund established by any corporation, membership organization, cooperative or labor organization whose purpose is to influence the outcome of an election, including a candidate or question; and [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).] B. Any person, as defined in subsection 12 which serves as a funding and transfer mechanism and by which moneys are expended to advance, promote, defeat, influence in any way, or initiate a candidate, campaign, political party, referendum or initiated petition in this State. [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).] [PL 1983, c. 160, §1 (NEW).]

14. Reimbursement. "Reimbursement" means anything of value received or to be received as repayment for expenditures. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §9 (AMD).]

14-A. Solicit. "Solicit" means to entreat, implore, urge or ask. [PL 2009, c. 282, §3 (NEW).]

15. Year. "Year" means a 12-month period starting December 1st and ending the following November 30th. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §9 (AMD).]

16. Anything of value. "Anything of value" means, but is not limited to: A. Negotiable items: (1) Money; (2) A bank bill or note; (3) A stock, bond, note or other investment interest in an entity; (4) A promissory note, bill of exchange, order, draft, warrant, check or bond given for the payment of money; (5) An honorarium or compensation for services; (6) The granting of a discount or rebate: (a) Not extended to the public generally; or (b) By a media outlet not extended equally to all candidates for the same office; and (7) The sale or trade of something for reasonable compensation that is not available ordinarily to a member of the public; [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §10 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).] B. Obligations: (1) A contract, agreement, promise or other obligation for an advance, conveyance, forgiveness of indebtedness, deposit, distribution, loan, payment, pledge or transfer of money; (2) A receipt given for the payment of money or other property; (3) A right in action; (4) A promise or offer of employment; and (5) An interest in tangible goods or chattel; [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §10 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).] C. Property. The retail or fair market value, whichever is greater, of: (1) A work of art, an antique or a collectible; (2) An automobile or other means of personal transportation; (3) Real property or an interest in real property, including title to realty, a fee simple or partial interest, present or future interest contingent or vested in realty, a leasehold interest or other beneficial interest in realty; and (4) Other tangible goods; and [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §10 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).] D. Other goods or services. The retail or fair market value, whichever is greater, of: (1) The purchase of tickets for an event such as a reception, rally or fund-raising event; (2) A meal or lodging; and (3) Any service not extended free of charge to other members of the public. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §10 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §10 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. A, §20 (AFF).]

17. State employee or state agency employee. "State employee or state agency employee" means employees of the executive branch, the judicial branch, the Department of the Attorney General, the Department of Secretary of State, the Department of the Treasurer and any employee who directly or indirectly represents an entity listed in Title 5, chapter 379 . [PL 1993, c. 691, §9 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 322 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 322
3 §322. Enforcement
Status: in_force

1. Filing of a complaint. Any person may file a complaint with the commission specifying any alleged violation of this chapter. The commission staff shall notify the party against whom the complaint has been filed and then may undertake the investigation of the alleged violation if directed by members of the commission. [PL 2007, c. 630, §17 (AMD).]

2. Attorney General. The Attorney General may enforce the provisions of this chapter upon request by the commission. [PL 1993, c. 691, §26 (RPR).]

3. Use of subpoena. In the conduct of an investigation under section 321, subsection 8 , the commission may subpoena witnesses and take evidence under oath. The commission may also subpoena records when a lobbyist, employer or other person refuses to provide relevant records requested by the commission in the course of investigating a violation of the registration, reporting or other requirements in this chapter. All subpoenas must be approved by the members of the commission and signed by the chair or the chair's designee. Any record or information obtained by the commission in the course of an investigation that is covered by a privilege against discovery or use as evidence is not a public record unless the privilege is waived. [PL 2007, c. 630, §17 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 124 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 5 / Section 124
3 §124. Service; proof
Status: in_force

Service of notice of petitions described in sections 121 and 122 may be made by any sheriff or constable, and proved by the proper return by the sheriff or constable or by written acknowledgment of the adverse party on the petition or, if notice is given by publication, then by the newspapers or the affidavit of the printer. [PL 2019, c. 475, §17 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 317-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 317-A
3 §317-A. Grassroots lobbying report
Status: in_force

Except for a lobbyist filing a monthly report under section 317, subsection 1, paragraph E‑1 , a person who makes or incurs expenditures in excess of $2,000 during a calendar month for purposes of grassroots lobbying shall file with the commission a report no later than 11:59 p.m. on the 15th day of the calendar month following the date on which that amount was exceeded. For purposes of this section, expenditures include payments of money made to independent contractors and other vendors to purchase goods and services such as advertising, graphic or website design, video or audio production services, telecommunications services, printing and postage. Salaries paid to the person's employees are not expenditures for the purposes of this section and are exempt from disclosure under this section. [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).]

1. Report. A grassroots lobbying report filed pursuant to this section must include: A. The name of the person required to file the report; [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] B. The name of an individual serving as the contact for the person; [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] C. The business address and other contact information for the person; [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] D. A description of the business activity or mission of the person; [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] E. The specific amount of expenditures for grassroots lobbying made or incurred during the month that is the subject of the report, with separate totals for expenditure categories as determined by the commission; [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] F. The legislative actions that are the subject of the grassroots lobbying; and [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] G. A list of all of the person's original sources and a statement of the amount paid by each original source. If an original source is a corporation formed under Title 13 or former Title 13‑A, a nonprofit corporation formed under Title 13‑B or a limited partnership under Title 31 , the corporation, nonprofit organization or limited partnership, not the individual members, must be listed as the original source. [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2019, c. 599, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 318-B — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 318-B
3 §318-B. Former executive branch or legislative branch employee lobbying prohibited (WHOLE SECTION TEXT EFFECTIVE 1/01/26)
Status: in_force

(CONTAINS TEXT WITH VARYING EFFECTIVE DATES)

(WHOLE SECTION TEXT EFFECTIVE 1/01/26)

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Classified service" has the same meaning as in Title 5, section 7032, subsection 3 . [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] B. "Compensated lobbying" means lobbying conducted by an individual who is specifically employed by another person other than the State or an agency of the State for that purpose or lobbying conducted by an individual as a regular employee of another person other than the State or an agency of the State. "Compensated lobbying" does not include activities for which the individual receives no compensation other than reimbursement for lobbying-related travel within the State and reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures made by the individual for printing, postage and food and lodging connected with lobbying activities paid for by the individual. For the purposes of this paragraph, "reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures" does not include reimbursement for the individual's time spent lobbying that would have been otherwise compensated by an employer or in the course of the individual's employment. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] C. "Former employee from the executive branch or legislative branch" means: (1) An employee who was employed in the executive branch of this State: (a) In the unclassified service, as defined in Title 5, section 7032, subsection 6‑A ; (b) In the classified service; (c) In a position for which the salary is subject to adjustment by the Governor under Title 2, section 6 ; or (d) In a major policy-influencing position under Title 5, chapter 71 ; and (2) An employee who was employed in the Legislature, including a partisan legislative employee, nonpartisan legislative employee, committee clerk or employee of the Office of the Secretary of the Senate or the Clerk of the House. [PL 2025, c. 185, §2 (RPR); PL 2025, c. 185, §4 (AFF).] D. "Lobbying" has the same meaning as in section 312‑A, subsection 9 . [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 185, §2 (AMD).]

2. Lobbying prohibited. Beginning January 1, 2026, a former officer or former employee from the executive branch or legislative branch may not engage in compensated lobbying until one year after the termination of the employee's executive branch or legislative branch employment. [PL 2025, c. 185, §3 (RPR); PL 2025, c. 185, §4 (AFF).]

3. Complaints and investigations. A person may file a complaint with the commission specifying an alleged violation of this section. The commission staff shall notify the person against whom the complaint has been filed and may undertake an investigation of the alleged violation if directed by the commission. The commission may direct commission staff to undertake an investigation of an alleged violation of this section on its own motion. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).]

4. Penalty. A person who intentionally violates this section is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000, payable to the State and recoverable in a civil action. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).](CONTAINS TEXT WITH VARYING EFFECTIVE DATES)

(WHOLE SECTION TEXT EFFECTIVE UNTIL 1/01/26)

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Classified service" has the same meaning as in Title 5, section 7032, subsection 3 . [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] B. "Compensated lobbying" means lobbying conducted by an individual who is specifically employed by another person other than the State or an agency of the State for that purpose or lobbying conducted by an individual as a regular employee of another person other than the State or an agency of the State. "Compensated lobbying" does not include activities for which the individual receives no compensation other than reimbursement for lobbying-related travel within the State and reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures made by the individual for printing, postage and food and lodging connected with lobbying activities paid for by the individual. For the purposes of this paragraph, "reimbursement for other out-of-pocket expenditures" does not include reimbursement for the individual's time spent lobbying that would have been otherwise compensated by an employer or in the course of the individual's employment. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] C. "Employee from the executive branch in the unclassified service" has the same meaning as in Title 5, section 7032, subsection 6‑A . [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] D. "Lobbying" has the same meaning as in section 312‑A, subsection 9 . [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).]

2. Lobbying prohibited. Beginning December 4, 2024, a former officer or employee in the classified service or a former employee from the executive branch in the unclassified service of this State or a person who was employed in a position for which the salary is subject to adjustment by the Governor under Title 2, section 6 or that is described as a major policy-influencing position under Title 5, chapter 71 may not engage in compensated lobbying until one year after the termination of the employee's executive branch employment. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).]

3. Complaints and investigations. A person may file a complaint with the commission specifying an alleged violation of this section. The commission staff shall notify the person against whom the complaint has been filed and may undertake an investigation of the alleged violation if directed by the commission. The commission may direct commission staff to undertake an investigation of an alleged violation of this section on its own motion. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).]

4. Penalty. A person who intentionally violates this section is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000, payable to the State and recoverable in a civil action. [PL 2023, c. 337, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 451 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 451
3 §451. Counsel
Status: in_force

The witness may have counsel present to advise the witness at all times. The witness or the witness's counsel may, during the time the witness is giving testimony, object to any investigating committee action detrimental to the witness's interests and is entitled to have a ruling by the chair on any such objection. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 162-B — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 162-B
3 §162-B. Salaries of constitutional officers
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the salaries of the following state officials shall be at the salary ranges indicated in this section. At the time of initial appointment, the salary of the Secretary of State and the Treasurer of State shall be set at the Step C of the official's respective range. At the time of initial appointment, the salaries of the Attorney General and the State Auditor shall be set at Step E of their salary ranges. The Legislative Council may adjust the salary of each official by one step for each year of continuous service after the initial appointment to office. [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).]

The salary ranges shall be as provided by law for confidential employees who take the salary increase option instead of state payment of retirement contribution. No other state salary may be paid. These officials are not eligible for state payment of employee retirement contributions. [PL 1983, c. 862, §§5, 6 (NEW).]

1. Range 88. The salary of the following state officials and employees shall be within salary range 88, but shall not be less than Step C in that range: A. Secretary of State; and [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).] B. Treasurer of State. [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).] [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).]

2. Range 89. The salary of the State Auditor shall be within salary range 89, but shall not be less than Step E in that range. [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).]

3. Range 91. The salary of the Attorney General shall be within salary range 91, but shall not be less than Step E in that range. [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 42 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 42
3 §42. Clerk and assistant clerk; salaries and duties
Status: in_force

The Clerk of the House of Representatives shall perform the usual duties of the clerk's office during the session of the Legislature and index the house journal. In the months of November and December next preceding the convening of the regular sessions of the Legislature, the clerk shall keep open the clerk's office each Wednesday and Thursday for the convenience of the public and members-elect of the Legislature. The clerk shall perform the services required by sections 41 and 43 . [PL 2019, c. 475, §16 (AMD).]

The Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives is entitled to receive a salary as provided by law and shall work under the direction of the clerk. [PL 2019, c. 475, §16 (AMD).]

All fees, charges, emoluments and other receipts of whatever nature that may be payable to the Clerk of the House of Representatives, the Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives, or any employee thereof, excepting their lawful salaries and expenses properly payable to them, must be credited to the General Fund, and no Clerk of the House of Representatives, Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives or employee may directly or indirectly receive a private benefit or gain from the sale or distribution of any material, information or reports from the records of such Clerk of the House of Representatives. [PL 2019, c. 475, §16 (AMD).]

The Speaker of the House of Representatives may authorize the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives to serve on a full-time basis when the Legislature is not in regular or special session. [PL 1983, c. 32, Pt. I, §2 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 317 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 317
3 §317. Reports
Status: in_force

A registered lobbyist shall file a report for each month that the Legislature is in session on forms prescribed or approved by the commission, even if no lobbying has been performed or compensation or reimbursement for expenses received for the month. [PL 2019, c. 587, §12 (RPR); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]

1. Monthly session reports. During the period in which the Legislature is in session, a registered lobbyist shall file with the commission, no later than 11:59 p.m. on the 15th calendar day of each month, a report concerning the lobbyist's activities for the previous month regarding each employer. The monthly report must contain the following information: A. The month to which the report pertains; [PL 1979, c. 632, §2 (RPR).] B. The name and address of the lobbyist and employer; [PL 1979, c. 632, §2 (RPR).] C. The names of the individuals who lobbied during the month; [PL 1979, c. 632, §2 (RPR).] D. The total amount of compensation the lobbyist and lobbyist associates received or expect to receive for lobbying during the month. The amount of compensation for lobbying officials in the legislative branch, officials in the executive branch and constitutional officers must be reported separately. In the case of a lobbyist or lobbyist associate who is a regular employee of the employer, the amount of compensation must be computed by multiplying the number of hours devoted to the preparation of documents and research for the primary purpose of influencing legislative action and to lobbying by the employee's regular rate of pay based on a 40-hour week; [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] E. The total amount of expenditures made or incurred by the lobbyist and lobbyist associates during the month for purposes of lobbying for which they have been or expect to be reimbursed. The amount of expenditures for lobbying officials in the legislative branch, officials in the executive branch and constitutional officers must be reported separately; [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] E-1. When expenditures made or incurred for the purposes of grassroots lobbying exceed $2,000 during the month that is the subject of the report, the specific dollar amount of expenditures for grassroots lobbying made or incurred during the month by a lobbyist, lobbyist associate or employer, with separate totals for expenditure categories as determined by the commission, and the legislative actions that are the subject of the grassroots lobbying. Salaries paid to the employer's regular employees are not expenditures for the purposes of this paragraph and are exempt from disclosure under this paragraph; [PL 2019, c. 599, §3 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).] F. The total amount of expenditures by the lobbyist and lobbyist associates on behalf of the employer for which they have been or expect to be reimbursed and by the employer directly to or on behalf of one or more covered officials, including members of the official's immediate family; [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] G. For each expenditure of $25 or more reported under paragraph F , the person making the expenditure and the date, amount and purpose of the expenditure and the name of the covered official or official's immediate family member on whose behalf the expenditure was made; [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] G-1. If the total cost for covered officials and the officials' immediate family members to attend an event paid for by the employer or by the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm on the employer's behalf is $250 or more, the date and a description of the event, a list of the names of covered officials and the officials' immediate family members in attendance and the total cost for the covered officials and the officials' immediate family members to attend the event; [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] H. A list of each legislative action by Legislative Document number, specific issue, nomination or other matter in connection with which the lobbyist is engaged in lobbying; [PL 2007, c. 630, §14 (AMD).] I. A list specifically identifying each legislative action for which the lobbyist and lobbyist associates were compensated or expect to be compensated, or expended in excess of $1,000 for lobbying related to those actions and a statement of the amounts compensated or expended for each; and [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] J. A list of all of the employer's original sources and a statement of the dollar amounts contributed or paid by the original sources to the employer. If the original source is a corporation formed under Title 13 or 13‑C or former Title 13‑A, nonprofit corporation formed under Title 13‑B or limited partnership under Title 31 , the corporation, nonprofit organization or limited partnership, not the individual members or contributors, must be listed as the original source. [PL 2009, c. 282, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 587, §13 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF); PL 2019, c. 599, §3 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 599, §5 (AFF).]

1-A. Lobbyist expenditure reports. A lobbyist or lobbyist associate who makes an expenditure directly to or on behalf of a covered official or a member of the covered official's immediate family that is not reportable under subsection 1, paragraphs F , G or G‑1 shall file a report pursuant to this subsection. If such an expenditure is made by a lobbying firm, a lobbyist or lobbyist associate from that lobbying firm shall report the expenditure. A. A report under this subsection is required if: (1) The total amount of expenditures directly to or on behalf of covered officials and their immediate family members is more than $300 in a calendar month; and (2) The lobbyist or lobbyist associate has not been and does not expect to be reimbursed by any employer. [PL 2019, c. 587, §14 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] B. The report must include: (1) The date of the expenditure; (2) The name and address of the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm; (3) The amount of the expenditure made or incurred by the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm either directly to or on behalf of a covered official or a covered official's immediate family member; (4) A description of the goods or services purchased by the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm; (5) The date and a description and location of an event paid for by the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm at which covered officials and the covered officials' immediate family members were in attendance; and (6) The names of all covered officials and their immediate family members to whom the expenditures were directly made or on whose behalf the expenditures were made or who attended an event paid for by the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or lobbying firm. [PL 2019, c. 587, §14 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] C. A report under this subsection is due no later than 11:59 p.m. on the 15th calendar day of the month following the month in which the expenditure was made or incurred. [PL 2019, c. 587, §14 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] [PL 2019, c. 587, §14 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]

2. Annual report. [PL 2011, c. 179, §5 (RP).]

2-A. Electronic filing. Beginning January 1, 2006, a lobbyist shall file monthly session reports under subsection 1 through an electronic filing system developed by the commission. The commission may make an exception to this electronic filing requirement if a lobbyist submits a written request that states that the lobbyist lacks access to the technology or the technological ability to file reports electronically. The request for an exception must be submitted at least 10 days prior to the deadline for the first report that the lobbyist is required to file for the lobbying year. The commission shall grant all reasonable requests for exceptions. [PL 2011, c. 179, §6 (AMD).]

3. Facsimile copies. The commission may, by rules adopted pursuant to the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 , establish procedures and fees by which facsimile copies of duly executed reports required by this section may be received and filed with the commission. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §10 (AMD).]

4. Monthly nonsession reports. When the Legislature is not in regular session, every registered lobbyist must either file: A. With the lobbyist's last monthly report for that regular session a statement that the lobbyist and lobbyist associate will not engage in lobbying when the Legislature is not in session. The lobbyist is required to file a monthly report for lobbying conducted during a special session; or [PL 2019, c. 587, §15 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).] B. If the lobbyist or lobbyist associate is engaged in lobbying, if the lobbyist, lobbyist associate or employer conducts grassroots lobbying or if the employer makes any expenditures directly to or on behalf of a covered official or a covered official's immediate family member in any of those months, a monthly report in the manner prescribed in subsection 1 even if compensation or reimbursement for expenses has not been received for the month. [PL 2021, c. 293, Pt. C, §2 (AMD).] If the lobbyist did not expect to be engaged in lobbying when the Legislature was not in session, the commission may waive the requirement for the months between the end of the session and the renewal of lobbying. [PL 2021, c. 293, Pt. C, §2 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 221 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 10 / Section 221
3 §221. Title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission Act." [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 974 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 36 / Section 974
3 §974. Report to the committee of jurisdiction
Status: repealed

An agency directed to undertake a retrospective review of one or more of its rules in a first regular session of the Legislature pursuant to section 972 shall submit a written report to the committee of jurisdiction on or before February 14th of the second regular session of that Legislature. The report must address each of the criteria listed in section 973 for each rule reviewed by the agency and identify ways in which the agency proposes to amend the rule, if any, and recommend whether the legislative authority for each rule should be retained, repealed or modified. [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 232 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 10 / Section 232
3 §232. Powers and duties
Status: in_force

The commission has the following powers and duties: [PL 1985, c. 775, §4 (NEW).]

1. Facilitate relations. To recommend to the Legislature of Maine and the legislative bodies of other member jurisdictions methods of facilitating relations and strengthening regional cooperation between the member jurisdictions; [PL 1985, c. 775, §4 (NEW).]

2. Exchanges. To encourage economic, cultural and educational exchanges between the member jurisdictions; [PL 1985, c. 775, §4 (NEW).]

3. Legislative conference. To host the New England and Eastern Canada Legislative Conference and to select the site for that conference; and [PL 1985, c. 775, §4 (NEW).]

4. Mutual interest. To identify mutual interests shared by the member jurisdictions and to recommend methods of fostering those mutual interests. [PL 1985, c. 775, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 522 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 24 / Section 522
3 §522. Purpose and powers
Status: in_force

The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs shall oversee the transfer of funds in accordance with Title 5, section 1585 , the transfer of funds in accordance with any other provision of law, block grant changes in accordance with Title 5, section 1670 and any other related fiscal matters. The committee shall also review all other financial orders that have been submitted to the Office of Fiscal and Program Review since the last meeting. The committee may meet monthly or as often as is determined necessary by the chairs. [PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. DD, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 172-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 172-A
3 §172-A. State Law Library; administration
Status: in_force

The Executive Director of the Legislative Council shall assign, direct and supervise, subject to the control of the council, the activities of the State law and legislative reference library. [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §10 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 223 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 10 / Section 223
3 §223. Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Office
Status: in_force

There is established a Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Office which shall be concerned with strengthening all areas of regional cooperation between the Legislature of Maine and the legislative bodies of Maine's neighboring Canadian Provinces, and with encouraging economic, cultural and educational exchange between Maine and these provinces. The Speaker of the House is authorized to exercise day-to-day supervision over the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Office until such time as otherwise provided for by the Legislative Council and the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission. [PL 1987, c. 816, Pt. KK, §3 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 705 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 705
3 §705. Internal Revenue Code compliance
Status: in_force

The Legislative Retirement Program established in this chapter is subject to the following requirements. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

1. Vesting. In compliance with the Code, Section 401(a)(7), a member is 100% vested in the member's contribution account at all times. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

2. Use of forfeitures of benefits. In compliance with the Code, Section 401(a)(8), any forfeitures of benefits by members or former members may not be used to pay benefit increases, but must be used to reduce unfunded liabilities. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

3. Benefits. In compliance with the Code, Section 401(a)(9), benefits must be paid in accordance with a good faith interpretation of the requirements of the Code, Section 401(a)(9) and the regulations in effect under that section as applicable to a governmental plan within the meaning of the Code, Section 414(d). [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

4. Application of annual compensation limits. In compliance with the Code, Section 401(a)(17), applicable annual compensation limits must be applied for purposes of determining benefits or contributions due to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

5. Rollovers. In compliance with the Code, Section 401(a)(31), a member may elect, at the time and in the manner prescribed by the board of trustees, to have any portion of an eligible rollover distribution paid directly to an eligible retirement plan specified by the member in a direct rollover. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

6. Qualified military service. Effective December 12, 1994, contributions, benefits and service credit with respect to qualified military service are governed by the Code, Section 414(u) and the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 and, effective January 1, 2007, the Code, Section 401(a)(37). [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

7. Additional requirements. In compliance with the Code, Section 415, the member contributions paid to and retirement benefits paid from the Legislative Retirement Program must be limited to the extent necessary to conform to the requirements of the Code, Section 415 for a qualified pension plan. [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

8. Compliance with Section 503(b). Effective July 1, 1989, the board of trustees may not engage in a transaction prohibited by the Code, Section 503(b). [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]

9. Rules. The board of trustees shall adopt rules necessary to maintain the qualified pension plan tax status of the Legislative Retirement Program under the Internal Revenue Code as required for governmental defined benefit plans defined in the Code, Section 414(d). Rules adopted under this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . [PL 2009, c. 474, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 158 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 6 / Section 158
3 §158. Confirmation vote
Status: in_force

The Senate shall vote by yeas and nays to accept or reject the recommendation of the appropriate joint standing committee. The Senate shall vote on the committee's recommendation within 45 days of the posting date, except that for judicial officers the vote must be held within 50 days of the posting date. The committee's recommendation becomes final unless it is overridden by a vote of 2/3 of the Senators present and voting. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 803 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 803
3 §803. State contribution
Status: in_force

1. Payment. For each member, the State shall pay annually into the fund an amount known as the employer contribution. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

2. Employer contribution. Employer contribution must be fixed on the basis of the assets and liabilities of the Legislative Retirement Program as shown by actuarial valuation and is expressed as a percentage of the annual earnable compensation of each member. A. The employer contribution rate represents the percentage of the member's compensation payable during periods of membership required to provide the difference between the total liabilities for retirement allowances and the amount of the assets in the fund. [PL 2007, c. 491, §21 (AMD).] B. The employer contribution rate is determined on actuarial bases adopted by the board of trustees. The rate is determined by the board of trustees after each valuation and continues in force until a new valuation is made. [PL 2007, c. 491, §21 (AMD).] [PL 2007, c. 491, §21 (AMD).]

3. State contribution procedure. The board of trustees shall submit budget estimates to the State Budget Officer in accordance with Title 5, section 1665 . On each payroll for Legislators, the State Controller shall cause a charge to be made of an amount or amounts in payment of the state costs of all charges related to the Legislative Retirement Program and which must be credited to the appropriate accounts of the fund. Percentage rates to be predetermined by the actuary and approved by the board of trustees must be applied to the total gross salaries of members appearing on those payrolls and the resultant charges must be periodically credited to the retirement fund. [PL 2007, c. 491, §21 (AMD).]

4. Minimum amount of employer contribution. The aggregate payment by the State into the fund must be at least sufficient to provide the benefits payable out of the fund and the administrative operating expenses of the Legislative Retirement Program during the current year. [PL 2007, c. 491, §21 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 421 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 421
3 §421. Investigating committee action
Status: in_force

Any investigating committee action shall require the affirmative votes of a majority of the committee members. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 524 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 24 / Section 524
3 §524. Report of the committee to the Legislature
Status: in_force

The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over the subject matter of the bonds shall study the report required in section 523 . This committee shall recommend that the Legislature approve the issue of all or any portion of or disapprove the issue of the authorized but unissued bonds. [PL 1983, c. 737, §§ 1, 2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 157 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 6 / Section 157
3 §157. Public hearings
Status: in_force

The public hearing must be held within 30 days of the posting date except for nominations for judicial officers, for which the public hearing must be held within 35 days of the posting date. The Legislative Information Office shall advertise all public hearings at least 7 days before the public hearing in both the state paper and in a newspaper of general circulation in the area in which the nominee resides. The advertisement must contain the name of the nominee, the position for which the nomination has been made, a summary of the duties of the position, the time, place and date of the public hearing and a statement that written comments relevant to the qualifications of the nominee, together with supporting materials, may be filed with the Legislative Information Office by 9 a.m. on the hearing date. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

Additional background information developed by the partisan assistants must be filed with the Legislative Information Office by 9 a.m. on the hearing date. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

For the purposes of reviewing nominations pursuant to this chapter, the appropriate joint standing committee may administer oaths and take testimony under oath. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 165, subsection 7 , the Legislature or, when the Legislature is not in session, the Legislative Council may grant to the joint standing committee reviewing a nomination any of the powers under section 165, subsection 7 . [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

The committee may take testimony under oath and shall consider the materials on file with the Legislative Information Office. The committee may meet in executive session if new information is raised at the public hearing that, if known earlier, would have been subject to discussion at the prehearing conference. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

The committee shall vote on the nomination within 35 days of the posting date, except that for nominations for judicial officers the committee shall vote within 40 days. A vote may not be taken sooner than 15 minutes after the close of the public hearing unless all members of the committee who are present agree. Upon a motion to confirm, properly made and seconded, the committee shall recommend confirmation or denial by a majority vote of the members present and voting at the time the vote is taken. The committee vote is by yeas and nays. Notwithstanding any other rule or provision of law, a member must be present to vote and the vote may not be modified except upon a proper motion for reconsideration. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

A tie vote of the committee is deemed a recommendation for denial. The committee chairs shall promptly notify the President of the Senate of the committee's recommendation and the results of the vote, listing the yeas and nays. [PL 1993, c. 685, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 1001 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 1001
3 §1001. Tax expenditure evaluation process details
Status: in_force

1. Information requests; confidentiality; reporting. The following provisions apply to the performance of duties under section 999 . These powers are in addition to the powers granted to the office and committee under this chapter. A. The office may request confidential information from the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Maine Revenue Services or other state agencies as necessary to address the evaluation objectives and performance measures approved under section 999, subsection 1 . The office shall request any confidential information in accordance with section 997, subsection 4 . The office shall request that confidential tax information, other than beneficiary contact information, be made accessible to the office as de-identified tax data. If Maine Revenue Services is unable to provide such data, the office and representatives of Maine Revenue Services shall determine appropriate methods for the office to access the requested information. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] B. Upon request of the office and in accordance with section 997, subsection 4 , the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Maine Revenue Services or other state agencies shall provide confidential information to the office. The office shall maintain the confidentiality of the information provided, in accordance with section 997, subsections 3 and 4 . This paragraph does not apply to federal tax information that is confidential under Title 36, section 191, subsection 3 . [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] C. The office, the committee or the policy committee may consult with governmental agencies, other entities and experts, including members of the Consensus Economic Forecasting Commission under Title 5, section 1710 . [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] D. The office may contract with other entities for the purpose of obtaining assistance in the review of tax expenditures. The office shall require a nondisclosure agreement as part of any contract entered into pursuant to this paragraph. The office may not disclose confidential taxpayer information to a contractor, except for: (1) Contact information for specific beneficiaries of tax expenditures for the purpose of conducting interviews, surveys or other data collection; and (2) Statistics classified so as to prevent the identification of specific taxpayers or the reports, returns or items of specific taxpayers. The contractor shall retain physical control of any information obtained pursuant to this paragraph until the conclusion of the review for which the information was provided, after which the information must be immediately destroyed. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] E. The office may report confidential information obtained under this section to Legislators, legislative committees, state agencies and the public only in the form of statistics classified so as to prevent the identification of specific taxpayers or the reports, returns or items of specific taxpayers. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] F. Prior to the submission of a tax expenditure evaluation report under section 999, subsection 2 , the office shall provide the State Tax Assessor an opportunity to review a draft of the report in accordance with the provisions of section 997, subsection 1 . The State Tax Assessor may advise the office on compliance with paragraph E . [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] G. For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings: (1) "Beneficiary contact information" means the following information listed on a tax return or included in a tax return: the name, address, zip code, e-mail address and telephone number of the taxpayer, and of any related entity, officers, attorneys, personal representatives and other agents, tax preparers and shareholders of, partners of or members of the taxpayer or of a listed related entity. (2) "De-identified tax data" means tax returns and other confidential tax information that are redacted or otherwise modified or restricted by Maine Revenue Services so as to exclude the following: (a) Beneficiary contact information; (b) Identification numbers including federal or state employer identification numbers, social security numbers and registration numbers; and (c) Other information from which the State Tax Assessor determines that the identity of the taxpayer could reasonably be inferred. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 417, §6 (AMD).]

2. Legislation. The committee may submit to the Legislature any legislation it considers necessary to improve the process or availability of data for the review of tax expenditures. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 23 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 23
3 §23. Records; amendments
Status: in_force

The Secretary or Assistant Secretary of any Senate shall amend, according to the fact, the journal of said Senate, whenever empowered or required by authority of the same, or of any subsequent Senate.
3 M.R.S. § 704 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 704
3 §704. Beneficiaries under disability
Status: in_force

Any beneficiary who is entitled to make an election of benefits under subchapter 5 , but is not lawfully qualified to make that election, shall have that election made in the beneficiary's behalf by the person authorized to do so by Title 18‑C, Article 5 . [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §2 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 954 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 35 / Section 954
3 §954. Designation by legislative policy committee
Status: in_force

1. Authorization. On or before April 1st of any first regular session, the committee of jurisdiction shall review the list of agencies scheduled for review in section 959 . [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]

2. Waiver from review. The committee of jurisdiction may, with a 2/3 vote of all committee members, do one of the following with regard to an agency review: A. Exempt an agency or independent agency from review and establish a new review date; [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] B. Establish a modified review process in which an agency or independent agency may be asked to provide less information than required by this section or additional information; or [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] C. Add an additional agency or independent agency for review, except that an agency that has been reviewed in accordance with this chapter in the legislative session immediately preceding the current legislative session may not be added for review. [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).] [PL 1995, c. 488, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 857 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 857
3 §857. Payment of service retirement allowance
Status: in_force

All service retirement allowances must be paid on the same basis as provided for members of the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program by Title 5, section 17804 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §30 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 225 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 10 / Section 225
3 §225. Director; powers and duties
Status: in_force

The Director of the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Office shall: [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

1. Recommend ways to strengthen regional cooperation. Recommend to the Legislature methods of strengthening all areas of regional cooperation with Canada; [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

2. Study and evaluate existing activities. Study and evaluate existing activities in the State on both the governmental and private levels involving cooperation with Canada, and particularly with the Provinces of Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island; [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

3. Determine new areas for cooperation. Determine new areas for fruitful regional cooperation, with particular attention to the potential for social betterment, economic growth, improved natural resource utilization and management and the enhancement of the environment; [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

4. Encourage exchanges. Encourage and assist economic, governmental, cultural and educational exchanges and other modes of improved contact with Canada; [PL 1977, c. 605, §1 (NEW).]

5. Disseminate information. [PL 1987, c. 884, Pt. C, §1 (RP).]

6. Administer certain funds. Administer those funds which may be available to it for the purposes of assisting in the development of improved relations and cooperation both between Maine and Canada, especially between the Legislature of Maine and the legislative bodies of Canada. The director shall administer the funds and pay the necessary expenses for the New England and Eastern Canada Legislative Commission. [PL 1985, c. 775, §2 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 522-B — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 24 / Section 522-B
3 §522-B. Workers' Compensation Board budget review
Status: in_force

The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over labor matters shall review the budget of the Workers' Compensation Board and submit its recommendations in a written report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs not later than 60 days after reference of the current services budget legislation and any supplemental budget legislation to the joint standing committee having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs. [PL 1991, c. 591, §AA1 (NEW); PL 1991, c. 885, Pt. D, §2 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 453 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 453
3 §453. Pertinency of requested testimony
Status: in_force

The witness or the witness's counsel may challenge any request for the witness's testimony as not pertinent to the subject matter and scope of the investigation, in which case the relation believed to exist between the request and the subject matter and scope of the investigation must be explained. [PL 2019, c. 475, §28 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 162-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 162-A
3 §162-A. Salaries subject to adjustment by Legislative Council
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the salaries of the following legislative officials are at the salary ranges indicated in this section. Except as provided below, at the time of initial appointment the salary of each of these officials may be set at Step A or Step B, but no higher than Step B, of their respective ranges, except that any employees of the office of the Secretary of the Senate or the office of the Clerk of the House of Representatives at the time of initial appointment must have their salary set at a step within their respective salary range so that no loss of gross pay is experienced by those employees. The Legislative Council may adjust the salary of each official by one step for each year of continuous service after the initial appointment to office. [PL 1993, c. 6, Pt. J, §1 (AMD).]

The salary ranges shall be those established by the Legislative Council for legislative staff. No other state salary may be paid to these officials. [PL 1987, c. 349, Pt. K, §1 (NEW).]

1. Range 14. The salaries of the following state officials and employees shall be within salary range 14: Secretary of the Senate; and Clerk of the House of Representatives. [PL 1987, c. 349, Pt. K, §1 (RPR).]

2. Range 9. [PL 1993, c. 707, Pt. FF, §1 (RP).]

3. Range 86. [PL 1983, c. 862, §4 (RP).]

4. Range 88. [PL 1983, c. 862, §4 (RP).]

5. Range 89. [PL 1983, c. 862, §4 (RP).]
3 M.R.S. § 423 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 423
3 §423. Issuance of a subpoena
Status: in_force

The decision to issue a subpoena shall be an investigating committee action. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 971 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 36 / Section 971
3 §971. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

1. Agency. "Agency" means any body of State Government authorized by law to adopt rules under Title 5, chapter 375 . [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

2. Committee of jurisdiction. "Committee of jurisdiction" means the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over the policy and subject matter of a rule. [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

3. Retrospective review. "Retrospective review" means a review of a rule by an agency for any change in the relevance, clarity and reasonableness of the rule between the time of its initial adoption and the time of the review. [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 319-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 319-A
3 §319-A. Testimony before Legislature; lobbyist
Status: in_force

1. Disclosure of compensation. A lobbyist or lobbyist associate who testifies before a joint select or joint standing committee of the Legislature shall disclose to the committee as part of the testimony the name of the person or organization that the lobbyist or lobbyist associate is representing. A lobbyist or lobbyist associate shall disclose to the committee orally or in written form the name of any person who is being compensated by the lobbyist or lobbyist associate or by the person or organization that the lobbyist or lobbyist associate is representing to testify before that committee. [PL 2005, c. 562, §1 (NEW).]

2. Report of violation. A member of the Legislature may file a complaint with the commission alleging a violation of this section in accordance with the Joint Rules of the Legislature. The commission shall notify all interested parties and shall investigate any apparent violations of this section. [PL 2005, c. 562, §1 (NEW).]

3. Penalty. If a lobbyist or lobbyist associate fails to disclose information required in subsection 1 , the commission may: A. Suspend the lobbyist or lobbyist associate from further lobbying by written notice of the commission; and [PL 2005, c. 562, §1 (NEW).] B. Assess a penalty of up to $5,000 against the lobbyist or lobbyist associate. [PL 2005, c. 562, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 562, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 125 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 5 / Section 125
3 §125. Notice of petitions for special legislation pertaining to fish and game
Status: in_force

Notice of petitions, bills or resolves for special legislation, regarding or in any manner pertaining to fish or game, shall be given with full description of the territory or waters affected by such legislation, in a newspaper of general circulation in the locality affected, at least once a week for 8 consecutive weeks, the last notice to be not less than one, nor more than 3 weeks before the assembling of the Legislature of which such legislation is requested, and such notice shall be absolutely required before any such legislation shall be enacted. All laws hereafter enacted pertaining to fish or game which do not conform to the general laws of the State shall for the purposes of this section be deemed special. This section shall not apply to any petition, Act or resolve, either repealing or amendatory, which has for its object the placing of the territory or waters in question under the general laws of the State. [PL 1987, c. 667, §3 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 401 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 401
3 §401. Short title
Status: in_force

This Act may be called "Rules for Legislative Investigations." [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 805-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 805-A
3 §805-A. Refund of accumulated contributions
Status: in_force

1. Conditions for refund. If the service of any member has terminated, except by death or by retirement under this chapter, the member must be paid the amount of the member's accumulated contributions under the following conditions: A. The member must have properly applied for a refund of accumulated contributions; [PL 2007, c. 137, §3 (NEW).] B. Payment must be made after termination of service and not more than 60 days after receipt of the application and receipt of the last payroll upon which the name of the member appears; [PL 2025, c. 221, §1 (AMD).] C. An application for refund is void if the member filing the application returns to membership in any retirement program administered by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System before issuance of the payment; and [PL 2007, c. 491, §22 (AMD).] D. Only accumulated contributions made by the member or picked up by the employer may be refunded to that member under this subsection. [PL 2007, c. 137, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 221, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 853 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 853
3 §853. Disability retirement
Status: in_force

Any member who becomes disabled while in service may receive a disability retirement allowance on the same basis as provided for members of the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program by Title 5, chapter 423, subchapter 5, article 3-A . [PL 2017, c. 88, §3 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 424 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 424
3 §424. Notice to witnesses
Status: in_force

A reasonable time before they are to testify, all prospective witnesses shall be notified of the subject matter of the investigation and shall be provided with a copy of this chapter. When a subpoena is served, the information required by this section shall be presented at the time of service. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 44 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 44
3 §44. Floor leaders; term limitation
Status: in_force

A person may not serve in the House of Representatives for more than 3 consecutive legislative bienniums in each of the following offices: party floor leader, assistant party floor leader or whip. Service in such capacity before December 2, 1992 or service as a party floor leader or assistant party floor leader in the Senate is not included in the calculation of years served. [PL 1993, c. 411, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 411, §3 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 991 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 991
3 §991. Evaluation and Government Accountability
Status: in_force

The Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability is created for the purpose of providing program evaluation of agencies and programs of State Government and, when determined necessary by the committee, local and county governments, quasi-municipal governments, special districts, utility districts, regional development agencies or any municipal or nonprofit corporation. The office also is established to ensure that public funds provided to local and county governments, quasi-municipal governments, special districts, utility districts, regional development agencies or any municipal or nonprofit corporation are expended for the purposes for which they were allocated, appropriated or contracted. When authorized by the committee, the office also may examine or direct an examination of any state contractor financed in whole or part by public funds and any expenditure by any public official or public employee during the course of public duty, including, but not limited to, any expenditure of private money for the purposes of the agency or other entity. [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 320 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 320
3 §320. Disposition of fees
Status: in_force

Fees collected pursuant to this chapter must be deposited into a special revenue account of the commission to be used for the purposes of administering and enforcing the provisions of this chapter, including the costs of obtaining, maintaining and upgrading technology to facilitate disclosure of lobbying and campaign finance information to the public. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the commission may deposit penalties assessed under Title 21‑A, sections 1014 , 1060‑A and 1062‑A into the account to be spent exclusively on technology costs consistent with this section. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. SSS, §1 (AMD).]

The commission shall, no later than November 15th of the year prior to any proposed change, establish the amount of the registration fee required to be paid pursuant to section 313 for the subsequent year. [PL 1993, c. 691, §23 (RPR).]
3 M.R.S. § 552 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 25 / Section 552
3 §552. Bond issues to include statement of estimated total debt service
Status: in_force

Whenever a bond issue is passed by the Legislature and presented to the voters for ratification, the question presented to the voters shall be accompanied on the ballot by a statement prepared by the Treasurer of State estimating the total debt service, including interest, over the full life of each bond issue to be voted upon. The validity of the bonds and of the voters' ratification thereof shall not be affected by any errors in such estimate and, if the actual amount of the total debt service for such bond issue varies from such estimate, the ratification by the electors shall nevertheless be conclusive and the validity of the bond issue shall not be affected by reason of such variance. [PL 1981, c. 629 (RPR).]
3 M.R.S. § 703 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 703
3 §703. Legal process and assignment
Status: in_force

The right of a person to a retirement allowance, the retirement allowance itself, the refund of a person's accumulated contributions, any death benefit, any other right accrued or accruing to a person under this chapter and the money in the various funds created by this chapter are not subject to execution, garnishment, attachment or any other process and are unassignable except that: [PL 1991, c. 746, §1 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 746, §10 (AFF).]

1. Retirement allowance available for child support. A member's retirement allowance is available to satisfy a child support obligation that is otherwise enforceable by execution, garnishment, attachment, assignment or other process; [PL 1991, c. 746, §1 (NEW); PL 1991, c. 746, §10 (AFF).]

2. Accumulated contributions available for child support. A member's accumulated contributions that are refundable under sections 805‑A and 805‑B are available to satisfy a child support obligation that is otherwise enforceable by execution, garnishment, attachment, assignment or other process; [PL 2011, c. 606, §2 (AMD).]

3. Qualified domestic relations order. The rights and benefits of a member or retiree under this chapter are subject to the rights of or assignment to an alternate payee, as defined in Title 5, section 17001, subsection 3‑B , under a qualified domestic relations order in accordance with Title 5, section 17059 ; and [PL 2011, c. 606, §3 (AMD).]

4. Forfeiture and restitution. The rights and benefits of a member or retiree under this chapter are subject to forfeiture or assignment to the member's spouse, dependent or former spouse in accordance with the provisions of Title 5, section 17062 . [PL 2011, c. 606, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 998 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 998
3 §998. Process for review of tax expenditures
Status: repealed

1. Assignment of review categories. By October 1, 2015, the committee, in consultation with the policy committee, shall assign each tax expenditure to one of the following review categories: A. Full evaluation for tax expenditures that are intended to provide an incentive for specific behaviors, that provide a benefit to a specific group of beneficiaries or for which measurable goals can be identified; [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] B. Expedited review for tax expenditures that are intended to implement broad tax policy goals that cannot be reasonably measured; and [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] C. No review for tax expenditures with an impact on state revenue of less than $50,000 or that otherwise do not warrant either a full evaluation or expedited review. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).]

2. Schedule. The committee, in consultation with the policy committee, shall establish a prioritized schedule of ongoing review of the tax expenditures assigned to the full evaluation and expedited review categories pursuant to subsection 1, paragraphs A and B . To the extent practicable, the committee shall group the review of tax expenditures with similar goals together. Beginning in 2024, when prioritizing ongoing review of tax expenditures assigned to the full evaluation category, the committee, in consultation with the policy committee, shall give priority to tax expenditures that are intended to provide an incentive to businesses over tax expenditures that are directed primarily toward individual tax relief and shall consider the impact of any statutory provisions regarding the expiration of a tax expenditure that may be the subject of legislation to extend the tax expenditure. [PL 2023, c. 417, §2 (AMD).]

3. Annual review of assignments and schedule. By October 1st of each year, beginning in 2016, the committee, in consultation with the policy committee, shall review and make any necessary adjustments to the review category assignments and schedule pursuant to subsections 1 and 2 , including adjustments needed to incorporate tax expenditures enacted, amended or repealed during the preceding year. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).]

4. Office responsibilities. The office shall maintain a current record of the review category assignments and the schedule under this section. [PL 2015, c. 344, §4 (NEW).]

5. Policy committee meetings. In order to perform its functions under this chapter, the policy committee may meet monthly or as often as is determined necessary by the chairs of the policy committee. [PL 2023, c. 417, §3 (NEW).]

6. Limited analysis projects. Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary, the policy committee may request the committee to approve up to 2 limited analysis projects related to legislation before the policy committee to be completed by the office during each regular legislative session. For the purposes of this section, "limited analysis project" means a limited review of a tax expenditure based on information readily available to the office that is intended to be completed and submitted to the committee and the policy committee within 30 days of approval by the committee. [PL 2023, c. 417, §4 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 806 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 806
3 §806. Additional member contributions by certain members
Status: in_force

1. Application. This section applies to a Legislator who is a public school teacher or an employee of the Maine Community College System who is on a leave of absence for the purpose of serving in the Legislature on or after July 1, 2002. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 20, Pt. OO, §2 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 20, Pt. OO, §4 (AFF).]

2. Additional member contributions on difference in earnable compensation. A Legislator subject to this section whose earnable compensation as a Legislator is less than the earnable compensation that would have been earned in the position from which the Legislator is on a leave of absence may make member contributions on the amount that represents the difference between the legislative earnable compensation received and the earnable compensation that would have been received in the position from which the Legislator is on a leave of absence. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW).]

3. Maximum total earnable compensation; total member contributions. The total earnable compensation on which a Legislator makes member contributions under this section may not be greater than the earnable compensation that the Legislator would have received had the Legislator remained in the position from which the Legislator is on a leave of absence. The Legislator's total member contributions under this section may not be greater than the member contributions that would have been paid on the earnable compensation that the Legislator would have received had the Legislator remained in that position from which the Legislator is on a leave of absence. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW).]

4. Method of member contribution. A Legislator may make member contributions under this section by either a single lump sum payment or by annual direct payments as provided by Title 5, section 17701, subsection 4 . [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW).]

5. Interest. If the Legislator makes member contributions under this section in the year in which the Legislator is on leave of absence, no interest accrues. If payment of member contributions under this section is made at any later time, interest accrues at a rate to be set by the board of trustees not to exceed regular interest by 5% or more, computed beginning at the end of the year in which the contributions would have been made to date of payment. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW).]

6. Written agreement. A Legislator who elects to make additional member contributions under this section must enter into a written agreement with the Maine Public Employees Retirement System for the making of the contributions. The agreement must be in a form specified by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System and according to terms and procedures specified by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW); PL 2007, c. 58, §3 (REV).]

7. Employer contribution. Whenever a Legislator elects to make member contributions under this section, the State shall pay the employer share of contributions on the amount that represents the difference between the legislative earnable compensation received by the Legislator and the earnable compensation that would have been received by the Legislator in the position from which the Legislator is on a leave of absence. [PL 2001, c. 657, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 321 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 321
3 §321. Powers and duties of the commission
Status: in_force

In order to carry out the purposes of this chapter, the commission shall have the following powers and duties. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

1. Furnishing of forms. The commission shall furnish forms to persons required to register or file reports. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

2. Availability of copying facilities. The commission shall make copying facilities available to the public during regular office hours and, notwithstanding any other provisions of law fixing the cost of such services, shall charge the actual cost of such services. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

3. Filing of voluntary information. The commission may accept and file any information voluntarily supplied that exceeds the requirements of this chapter. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

4. Preservation of registrations and reports. The commission shall preserve all registrations and reports filed pursuant to this chapter for 4 years from date of receipt and may dispose of same. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

5. Acceptance or rejection of forms. The commission may prescribe forms for all documents required or permitted to be filed with the commission and may refuse to accept documents not filed on those forms. [PL 1993, c. 691, §24 (AMD).]

6. Refusal of filing. The commission may refuse to accept any document that is not legible or that can not be clearly reproduced photographically. [PL 1993, c. 446, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

7. Review reports for completeness. The commission may reject reports that are incomplete. [PL 1993, c. 691, §25 (AMD).]

8. Investigations. The commission may undertake investigations into the failure to file a registration or to determine the accuracy and completeness of the registration and reporting of lobbyists and their employers if the members of the commission have found cause to believe that a violation may have occurred based on a properly filed complaint or other information received by the commission. [PL 2007, c. 630, §16 (NEW).]

9. Reject registrations. The commission shall reject registrations that do not include certification of completion of training required under section 170‑B or requests for extensions or exemptions pursuant to section 312‑B . [PL 2019, c. 587, §17 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 411 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 411
3 §411. Creation
Status: in_force

Whenever the Legislature delegates to a committee the power to administer oaths, issue subpoenas and take depositions in connection with any study or investigation, such committee shall automatically become an investigating committee for the purpose of such study or investigation and shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter, whether or not such power is utilized by the committee in the course of such study or investigation. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 903 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 31 / Section 903
3 §903. Advice and assistance to commission
Status: in_force

The commission may request the assistance and advice of any state agency in the administration of its duties. Any state agency receiving a request shall render any assistance and advice to the commission. [PL 1987, c. 816, Pt. EE, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 973 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 36 / Section 973
3 §973. Agency review
Status: in_force

When directed by a committee of jurisdiction to undertake a retrospective review of a rule under this chapter, an agency shall evaluate the continued relevance, clarity and reasonableness of the rule by examining: [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

1. Relevance. The extent to which the rule may have over time become redundant, inconsistent or in conflict with the original goals and objectives for which the rule was first proposed, with other rules or with any underlying federal or state law or regulation that initially served as the basis for the rule; [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

2. Clarity. Whether the language of the rule has retained its clarity and use of plain and clear English as required by Title 5, section 8061 , continues to comply with the uniform drafting standards set forth in the drafting manual developed by the Secretary of State under Title 5, section 8056-A or whether the rule could be made less complex or more understandable to the general public; [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

3. Reasonableness. Whether the rule has been reasonably and consistently applied with respect to the public or particular persons and whether less costly or more limited regulatory methods of achieving the original purposes of the rule have become available; and [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]

4. Appropriate categorization. Whether the rule should be categorized as a major substantive rule or a routine technical rule, as those terms are defined in Title 5, chapter 375 . [PL 2011, c. 304, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 170-B — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 170-B
3 §170-B. Required training regarding harassment
Status: in_force

All Legislators, legislative staff, lobbyists and lobbyist associates shall attend and complete a course of in-person education and training regarding harassment, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment and racial harassment, at the beginning of each regular session of the Legislature. The Legislative Council shall develop and implement this course of education and training. For the purpose of this section, "lobbyist" and "lobbyist associate" have the same meanings as in section 312‑A, subsections 10 and 10‑A , respectively. [PL 2019, c. 587, §2 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 587, §18 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 341 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 17 / Section 341
3 §341. Rights and privileges; interest in private claims prohibited
Status: in_force

Representatives of the press, who shall be actually engaged in sending daily reports of the doings of the Legislature to daily newspapers, shall have the privilege of the floor of the Senate and House of Representatives, and shall be subject to such rules as may from time to time be adopted by either branch of the Legislature. No such representative shall be interested in any private claim or measure pending before the Legislature, nor shall any such representative, while acting as correspondent for any daily newspaper, and as such correspondent having the privileges mentioned in this section, become interested in the prosecution of any such claim or measure.
3 M.R.S. § 123 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 5 / Section 123
3 §123. No notice; petition referred
Status: in_force

Petitions mentioned in sections 121 and 122 without proof of notice as prescribed shall be referred, with order of notice, to the next Legislature.
3 M.R.S. § 995 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 995
3 §995. Director
Status: in_force

1. Appointment. Not earlier than April 1, 2003, the Legislative Council shall appoint by an affirmative vote of 8 members of the Legislative Council a nonpartisan director of the office for the purposes of conducting program evaluations pursuant to this chapter. The director must be appointed to an initial 5-year term, which is subject to renewal by the Legislative Council every 5 years thereafter. During the term of the contract, the director may be terminated only for cause by an affirmative vote of 8 members of the Legislative Council. The Legislative Council shall establish the compensation of the director. The director's duties must be performed independently and in a nonpartisan manner but under the general policy direction of the committee. [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §8 (AMD).]

2. Duties. The director shall supervise the staff of the office in accordance with policies adopted by the committee and consistent with the policies of the Legislative Council. The director shall prepare and present a biennial budget to the committee for its approval. Money appropriated or allocated to the office must be expended in the discretion of the director and the committee only. The director also shall prepare and present an annual work plan to the committee for its consideration and approval. The director also may contract with private individuals or entities for the conduct of program evaluations under this chapter. The director may request the committee to issue subpoenas. [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

3. Employees. Employees must be nonpartisan. Employees of the office are employed by and are responsible to the director, who shall hire and fix the compensation of each employee, subject to the approval of the committee and within resources available in the biennial budget. Other than the director appointed pursuant to subsection 1 , an employee of the office may not be employed prior to July 1, 2003. [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §8 (AMD).]

4. Annual report. The director shall prepare an annual report of the office's activities for each calendar year and shall submit that annual report to the committee and the Legislature no later than January 15th of each calendar year. [PL 2003, c. 463, §4 (AMD).]

5. Coordination with State Auditor; complaints alleging fraud, waste, inefficiency or abuse. The director may access confidential information disclosed by the State Auditor under Title 5, section 244‑E, subsection 3 in order to ensure appropriate agency referral or coordination between agencies to respond appropriately to all complaints made under Title 5, section 244‑E . [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 327 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 327
3 §327. Name tag requirement
Status: in_force

A person who is required to register as a lobbyist or a lobbyist associate in accordance with this chapter shall wear a clearly visible name tag whenever the lobbyist or lobbyist associate is engaged in the act of lobbying. The name tag must clearly display the lobbyist's name and must include either the name of the firm the lobbyist works for, the name of the lobbyist’s employer, the organization the lobbyist represents or the term "lobbyist." [PL 2009, c. 137, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 994 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 37 / Section 994
3 §994. Duties of committee
Status: in_force

The committee has the following duties: [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

1. Director. To evaluate the director of the office and make a recommendation to the Legislative Council in writing regarding the reappointment of the director of the office before the Legislative Council considers the reappointment of the director of the office; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

2. Annual work plan. To review and approve the annual work plan of the office; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

3. Direct evaluations. To direct the office to conduct program evaluations; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

3-A. Auditing services. When the committee determines that an examination as part of a program evaluation requires the services of a qualified auditor, to request the Office of the State Auditor to conduct all or part of an examination or, if the Office of the State Auditor is unable to perform the examination within the time frame established by the committee, to direct the office to obtain the services of a qualified auditor; [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §4 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 16, §10 (REV).]

4. Conduct hearings. To hold public hearings for the purpose of receiving reports from the office and questioning public officials about office findings and recommendations; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

5. Examine witnesses. To examine witnesses and to order the appearance of any person or the appearance of any person for the purpose of production to the committee of papers or records, including books, accounts, documents, computer disks or memory or other electronic media and other materials regardless of their physical or electronic form; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

6. Administer oaths. To administer oaths to witnesses appearing before the committee when, by a majority vote, the committee determines the administration of an oath necessary and advisable, to determine if there is probable cause that a witness has committed perjury by testifying falsely before the committee and to direct the Attorney General to institute legal proceedings as provided by law; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

7. Vote on reports. To vote at the committee's discretion to endorse, to endorse in part or to release a report of the office without endorsement; [PL 2001, c. 702, §2 (NEW).]

8. Subpoenas. To issue subpoenas upon a majority vote of the committee in the event of refusal to appear or to produce papers or records, including books, accounts, documents, computer disks or memory or other electronic media and other materials regardless of their physical or electronic form. A subpoena issued under this subsection must be issued pursuant to the provisions of section 165 and chapter 21 ; [PL 2003, c. 451, Pt. KKK, §2 (AMD).]

9. Meetings. To conduct meetings at such times as the cochairs determine necessary; [PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. GGGG, §5 (AMD).]

10. Adopt rules. To adopt rules, as long as the rules are not in conflict with the Joint Rules of the Legislature. By January 1, 2005, the committee must develop a mission statement to be included in the rules; [PL 2005, c. 104, §1 (AMD).]

11. Information available to committee. To receive certain information. Information that is made available to the committee is governed by chapter 21 , which governs legislative investigating committees, and by Title 1, chapter 13 , which governs public records and proceedings; and [PL 2005, c. 104, §2 (AMD).]

12. Immediate review system. To establish a system to provide immediate review of a program or function of a state agency or other entity in the event that there is a suspicion of a major mismanagement of public funds or functions. If the director determines to proceed under the immediate review system and the committee approves proceeding under that system, qualified auditors and investigators may be retained by the director for that purpose. The director shall coordinate efforts with the Attorney General, State Auditor, State Controller and others considered appropriate by the director. [PL 2005, c. 104, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 602 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 27 / Section 602
3 §602. Designees; notification to Secretary of State
Status: in_force

The Chief of the Penobscot Nation and the Chief of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians may each designate, and the Chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik and the Chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkomikuk may jointly designate, by name and title, a person to whom the Secretary of State must send any notices required under section 601, subsection 3 and who is authorized to certify an agreement to legislation in accordance with section 601, subsection 4 . The designation, if any, must be in writing and filed with the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall transmit certified copies of each designation to the Secretary of the Senate, the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Revisor of Statutes. A designation remains in effect until the Chief of the Penobscot Nation or the Chief of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians rescinds the designation or makes a new designation or until the Chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik and the Chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkomikuk jointly rescind the designation or jointly make a new designation. [PL 2023, c. 620, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 171 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 171
3 §171. Declaration of policy
Status: in_force

The Legislature declares that it is the policy of the State to provide a law and legislative reference library adequate to the informational needs of the Legislature, other branches of State Government and the citizens of Maine. [PL 1971, c. 480, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 522-C — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 24 / Section 522-C
3 §522-C. Meetings of the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters
Status: in_force

The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters shall oversee the transfer of funds in accordance with Title 23, section 1652 . The committee may meet monthly or as often as is determined necessary by the chairs. [PL 2011, c. 392, Pt. L, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 422 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 21 / Section 422
3 §422. Order of procedure
Status: in_force

The decision as to the order of procedure in making a study or an investigation shall be an investigating committee action. [PL 1975, c. 593, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 311 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 15 / Section 311
3 §311. Declaration of purpose
Status: in_force

The Constitution of Maine guarantees the right of the people to petition their government for the redress of grievances and to freely express their opinions on legislation and issues. The Legislature reaffirms its obligation to hear the requests and opinions of all of the people, and to preserve and maintain the integrity and accessibility of the legislative process. [PL 1975, c. 724 (REEN).]

The Legislature recognizes that groups of citizens may choose one among them to present their views to Legislators, and, because of the amount and complexity of proposed legislation, may employ persons knowledgeable in the legislative process to present their views. Such activities are proper methods of expressing the opinion of a group of citizens. [PL 1975, c. 724 (REEN).]

The Legislature also recognizes that such activities must be carried out openly so that other citizens are aware of the opinions and requests made in this manner. Legislative decisions can fully reflect the will of all the people only if the opinions expressed by any citizen are known to all and debated by all, and if the representatives of groups of citizens are identified and their expenditures and activities are regularly disclosed. [PL 1975, c. 724 (REEN).]

Therefore, the Legislature declares that, in order to insure the full participation of all the people of the State in the legislative process, full disclosure of the identity, expenditures and activities of any persons who engage in professional lobbying is required. Such disclosure will insure the openness and integrity of the legislative process and encourage the expression of the will of all the people of the State. [PL 1975, c. 724 (REEN).]
3 M.R.S. § 731 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 731
3 §731. Board of trustees
Status: in_force

The Board of Trustees of the Legislative Retirement Program consists of those persons who are members of the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. The Board of Trustees of the Legislative Retirement Program is responsible for the proper operation and implementation of the Legislative Retirement Program under this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 491, §6 (AMD).]

1. Duties. The board of trustees has the same duties with respect to the Legislative Retirement Program as with other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System, including, but not limited to, those powers and duties enumerated in Title 5, chapter 421, subchapters 3 , 4 and 5 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §7 (AMD).]

2. Administration of Legislative Retirement Program. The board of trustees shall administer the Legislative Retirement Program and may adopt and publish, in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2 , any rules necessary and proper to give effect to the intent, purposes and provisions of this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 491, §8 (AMD).]

3. Expenses. The trustees are entitled to compensation as provided in Title 5, chapter 379 from the funds of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. [PL 2007, c. 491, §9 (AMD).]

4. Oath. Each trustee shall, within 30 days after that trustee's appointment, take an oath of office to faithfully discharge the duties of a trustee, in the form prescribed by the Constitution of Maine. This oath must be subscribed to by the trustee making it, certified by the officer before whom it is taken and immediately filed in the office of the Secretary of State. [PL 2001, c. 181, §1 (AMD).]

5. Quorum. Each voting trustee is entitled to one vote on the board of trustees. Five trustees constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business. Five votes are necessary for any resolution or action by the board of trustees at any meeting of the board. [PL 1999, c. 790, Pt. D, §1 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 163-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 7 / Section 163-A
3 §163-A. Nonpartisan legislative staff services
Status: in_force

Nonpartisan legislative staff shall provide the following services under the direction of the Executive Director: [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

1. Bill drafting. To furnish to the members of the Legislature the assistance of expert drafters qualified to aid the Legislature in the preparation of bills for introduction into the Legislature; [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

2. Revision. Upon request, to assist any agency appointed to revise the statutes of the State or any portion of the statutes and, at the direction of such agency, to consolidate, revise and clarify the statutes of the State; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]

2-A. Engrossing. To engross all bills passed by the Legislature; [PL 1987, c. 816, Pt. KK, §2 (NEW).]

3. Session laws. To prepare and index for printing as promptly as possible, after the adjournment of each session, the session laws, which compilation includes all Acts and resolves that the Legislature has adopted during the session and that have received the approval of the Governor, when such approval is necessary, and any other material of a general nature that the Executive Director may determine; [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

4. Copy of public laws. After each session of the Legislature, to cause the public laws enacted at that session to be printed on good paper and in suitable type and to distribute the same within the State to all citizens making a request for those laws; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]

5. Pocket supplements. After each session of the Legislature, to cause to be published cumulative pocket supplements of the volumes of the Revised Statutes, and any replacement or recompiled volumes, which must contain an accurate transcription of all public laws, the material contained in the next preceding pocket supplement, complete and accurate annotations to the statutes, appendix and other material accumulated since the publication of the next preceding pocket supplement and a cumulative index of that material; [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

6. Continuing revision. [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (RP).]

7. Committee assistance. To provide research, analysis and bill drafting assistance for joint standing or select committees, including, but not limited to, the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs and other legislative agencies; [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

8. Reports and legislation. To prepare narrative reports on matters referred to joint standing committees for review or study and prepare legislation to be introduced pursuant to those reports; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]

9. Research services. To provide a comprehensive research service for Legislators, legislative joint standing or select committees and commissions and the Legislative Council; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]

10. Collection of fiscal information. To collect and assemble factual information concerning the fiscal affairs of the State for the use of the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs in formulating its proposals for appropriations and to collect and assemble fiscal information concerning other revenue funds for the use of any joint standing committee in formulating proposals for allocation acts; [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

11. Appropriation requests. To examine all requests for appropriations made by the various agencies of State Government and attend any hearings necessary to obtain complete information; [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]

12. Statement of cost. To prepare statements pertaining to the existence of cost or the amount of cost to municipalities or counties for implementing or complying with a proposed law. The statement of cost is made within the limits of information provided to the office designated by the Legislative Council as having responsibility for financial analysis. The statements must be furnished to the appropriate committee for the information of its members and for inclusion in bills that receive an ought to pass report when reported by the committee. A statement is not necessary for any bill that has no cost to municipalities or counties; and [PL 2015, c. 102, §6 (AMD).]

13. Other duties. To undertake such other duties as are assigned by the Executive Director. [PL 1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 603 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 27 / Section 603
3 §603. Mi'kmaq Nation designee; notification to Secretary of State
Status: in_force

The Chief of the Mi'kmaq Nation may designate, by name and title, a person to whom the Secretary of State must send any notices required under section 601, subsection 3 and who is authorized to certify an agreement to legislation in accordance with section 601, subsection 4 . A designation, if any, must be in writing and filed with the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall transmit certified copies of the designation to the Secretary of the Senate, the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Revisor of Statutes. The designation remains in effect until the Chief of the Mi'kmaq Nation rescinds the designation or makes a new designation. [PL 2023, c. 620, Pt. A, §3 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 802 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 802
3 §802. Creditable service
Status: in_force

Creditable service for the purpose of determining benefits under this chapter shall be allowed as follows. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

1. Legislative service after December 2, 1986. All legislative service of a member after December 2, 1986, for which contributions are made, shall be allowed as creditable service. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

2. Legislative service before December 3, 1986. All service of a member as a Legislator before December 3, 1986 must be allowed as creditable service upon payment of contributions at that percentage rate required of members of the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program during the period of time covered by the legislative service applied to the earnable compensation of the member, together with interest at a rate set by a rule of the board of trustees from the end of the calendar year in which the compensation was paid to the date payment of the contributions is made. [PL 2007, c. 491, §19 (AMD).]

3. Disability retirement. The period following the termination of service for which a beneficiary receives disability retirement allowance payments under section 853 shall be allowed as membership service. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]

4. State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program service. Creditable service as a member of the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program as a state employee must be allowed as creditable service of the Legislative Retirement Program as follows. A. Any member who has not withdrawn the member's accumulated contributions with the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program and is not a benefit recipient under Title 5, section 17804 may, upon becoming a Legislator, have the member's State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program contributions and membership service transferred to the member's account with the Legislative Retirement Program and all creditable service resulting from membership in the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program is creditable service in the Legislative Retirement Program. All funds in the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program contributed by the State on account of the member's employment must be transferred to the Legislative Retirement Program and must be used to liquidate the liability incurred by reason of the member's previous employment. The State shall make contributions, from time to time, as may be necessary to provide the benefits under the Legislative Retirement Program for the member that have accrued to the member by reason of the member's previous employment and may accrue to the member by reason of membership in the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §20 (AMD).] B. Any member who has withdrawn that member's accumulated contributions from the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program may, subsequent to becoming a Legislator and prior to the date any retirement allowance becomes effective for the member, deposit in the fund by a single payment or by an increased rate of contribution an amount equal to the accumulated contributions withdrawn by the member, together with interest at a rate set by a rule of the board of trustees from the date of withdrawal to the date of repayment. If repayment is made in installments, interest continues to accrue on the outstanding balance. The member is entitled to all creditable service that the member acquired during the member's previous membership. In the event any retirement allowance becomes effective before repayment is completed, the member is entitled to credit for that portion of the total of the previous creditable service which the total amount of payments actually made bears to the total amount, including interest at a rate set by a rule of the board of trustees from the date of withdrawal to the date the retirement allowance becomes effective. [PL 2007, c. 491, §20 (AMD).] C. A person may not receive benefits under both the Legislative Retirement Program and the State Employee and Teacher Retirement Program based upon the same period of service. [PL 2007, c. 491, §20 (AMD).] [PL 2007, c. 491, §20 (AMD).]

5. Amount of service per year. The board shall establish by rule the amount of creditable service to be granted for service rendered during a year, but in no case shall it allow more than one year of service for all service in one calendar year. [PL 1985, c. 507, §1 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 901-A — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 31 / Section 901-A
3 §901-A. State House and Capitol Park Commission
Status: in_force

The State House and Capitol Park Commission, as established in Title 5, section 12004-I , in this chapter called the "commission," shall consist of 11 voting members and 5 ex officio, nonvoting members who shall be appointed and shall serve as described in this section. [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).]

1. Voting members; appointment. Voting members of the commission shall be appointed as follows: A. The Director of the Maine Historic Preservation Commission who shall be the permanent chair of the commission; [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] B. Six members of the public, 4 of whom shall be appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives and 2 by the Governor; [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] C. The Governor, President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives or their representatives; and [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] D. The Director of the State House and Capitol Park Commission. [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).]

2. Ex officio nonvoting members. The ex officio nonvoting members of the commission shall be as follows: A. The Director of the Maine State Museum; [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] B. The Director of the Maine Arts Commission; [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] C. The Director of the Bureau of General Services; [PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. B, §2 (AMD).] D. The Chair of the Capitol Planning Commission; and [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] E. The Executive Director of the Legislative Council. [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. B, §2 (AMD).]

3. Terms. Each public member shall be appointed to serve a term of 2 years. A member shall serve until a successor is appointed. A vacancy shall be filled as soon as practicable by appointment for the unexpired term in the manner of the original appointment. [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).]

4. Reimbursements. Members shall serve on the commission without pay, but shall be reimbursed for their expenses and travel upon application to the Legislative Council and in accordance with Title 5, chapter 379 . [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).]

5. Meetings; decisions; quorum. The commission shall meet at least quarterly on the call of the chair. Decisions shall be made by a majority of those present and voting. A quorum shall be a majority of the voting members of the commission. [PL 1989, c. 410, §9 (NEW).]
3 M.R.S. § 24 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 1 / Section 24
3 §24. Floor leaders; term limitation
Status: in_force

A person may not serve in the Senate for more than 3 consecutive legislative bienniums in each of the following positions: party floor leader or assistant party floor leader. Service in either capacity in the Senate before December 2, 1992 or service as a party floor leader, assistant party floor leader or whip in the House of Representatives is not included in the calculation of years served. [PL 1993, c. 411, §1 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 411, §3 (AFF).]
3 M.R.S. § 736 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 736
3 §736. Legal adviser
Status: in_force

The Attorney General or an assistant designated by the Attorney General is the legal adviser of the Board of Trustees of the Legislative Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §14 (AMD).]
3 M.R.S. § 754 — ME Code / Title 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 754
3 §754. Investments
Status: in_force

The board of trustees may combine funds from the Legislative Retirement Program and the assets of other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System for investment purposes. The assets and funds of other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System and the assets and funds of the Legislative Retirement Program may not be combined for benefit payment purposes or for administrative expenses. [PL 2007, c. 491, §16 (AMD).]