reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 2-A: COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE › 20-A §3272. Truancy; excusable absences

§3272. Truancy; excusable absences
1.  Truancy.
[PL 2011, c. 614, §9 (RP).]
2.  Truancy.
A person is truant if:
A. The person is required to attend school or alternative instruction and has completed grade 6 under this chapter and has the equivalent of 10 full days of unexcused absences or 7 consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year;   [PL 2019, c. 235, §3 (AMD).]
B. The person is required to attend school or alternative instruction and is at least 6 years of age and has not completed grade 6 under this chapter and has the equivalent of 7 full days of unexcused absences or 5 consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year; or   [PL 2019, c. 508, §4 (AMD).]
C. The person is required to attend school pursuant to section 3271, subsection 1‑A and has not completed grade 6 and has the equivalent of 7 full days of unexcused absences or 5 consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year.   [PL 2019, c. 235, §3 (NEW).]
[PL 2019, c. 508, §4 (AMD).]
3.  Excusable absence.
A person's absence is excused when the absence is for the following reasons:
A. Personal health, including the person's physical, mental and behavioral health;   [PL 2019, c. 562, §1 (AMD).]
B. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day and the absence has prior approval;   [PL 2007, c. 304, §2 (AMD).]
C. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day;   [PL 2021, c. 25, §1 (AMD).]
D. A family emergency; or   [PL 1985, c. 490, §8 (NEW).]
E. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose that has prior approval.   [PL 2007, c. 304, §2 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 25, §1 (AMD).]
4.  Adult responsibility.
Any adults having a person of compulsory school age under their control shall cause the person to attend school as provided in this section.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1985, c. 490, §8 (NEW). PL 1989, c. 415, §5 (AMD). PL 2007, c. 304, §§1, 2 (AMD). PL 2011, c. 614, §§9, 10 (AMD). RR 2011, c. 2, §17 (COR). PL 2019, c. 235, §3 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 508, §4 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 562, §1 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 25, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 2-A: COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE › 20-A §3273. Enforcement

§3273. Enforcement
1.  Civil violations.
A parent who has control of a person who is truant under section 3272, subsection 2 and who is primarily responsible for that person's truancy commits a civil violation under this chapter.
A. [PL 1989, c. 415, §6 (RP).]
B. [PL 1989, c. 415, §6 (RP).]
C. [PL 1989, c. 415, §6 (RP).]
[PL 2011, c. 614, §11 (AMD).]
2.  Jurisdiction.
The District Court shall have jurisdiction over these violations.
[PL 1989, c. 415, §7 (AMD).]
3.  Process.
Service of the petition on the parent shall be in accordance with the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure.
[PL 1989, c. 415, §8 (RPR).]
4.  Penalties.
[PL 1989, c. 415, §9 (RP).]
5.  Disposition.
The court may order injunctive relief of one or more of the following actions against any person who commits a civil violation under subsection 1:
A. Ordering the offender to comply with this chapter;   [PL 1989, c. 415, §10 (NEW).]
B. Ordering the offender to take specific action to ensure the student's attendance at school;   [PL 1989, c. 415, §10 (NEW).]
C. Enjoining the offender from engaging in specific conduct which interferes with or may interfere with the student's attendance at school; or   [PL 1989, c. 415, §10 (NEW).]
D. Ordering the offender to undergo counseling by a professional selected by the offender, with the court's approval, or by the court. The counselor shall submit a written evaluation to the court and to the offender.   [PL 1989, c. 415, §10 (NEW).]
[PL 1989, c. 415, §10 (NEW).]
6.  Fine.
For a civil violation under this section, the court may impose a fine not to exceed $250, all or part of which may be suspended upon the offender's compliance with a court order under this section.
[PL 2007, c. 304, §4 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1985, c. 490, §8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 797, §§29,30 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 415, §§6-10 (AMD). PL 2007, c. 304, §§3, 4 (AMD). PL 2011, c. 614, §11 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3301. General powers

§3301. General powers
The commissioner shall have the following general powers.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  Agents.
The commissioner may appoint agents for the unorganized territory to act as attendance officers and perform such other school duties as are delegated to them by the commissioner.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (AMD).]
2.  Special attendance officers.
The commissioner may appoint special attendance officers for the unorganized territory.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (AMD).]
3.  School buildings.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (RP).]
4.  Disposal of property.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (RP).]
5.  Employment of personnel.
The commissioner shall employ teachers, administrators and other personnel as necessary to provide schooling and to care for the school property in the unorganized territory.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (NEW).]
6.  Contracting authority.
The commissioner may make all contractual arrangements deemed necessary to provide elementary, secondary, special education and career and technical education outside the unorganized territory in other schools of the State.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. D, §3 (REV).]
7.  Payment of board.
In each case where application for the payment of board for an eligible student is made, the commissioner shall determine if board is necessary. The commissioner shall approve all boarding arrangements prior to making payments. Payments for board shall be made for a period of not less than one school month upon receipt of a satisfactory attendance record for the student from a responsible school official.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (NEW).]
8.  Closing school.
The commissioner may not close a school in the unorganized territory except in accordance with procedures and standards established by the department by rule. The rules must provide for a public hearing in the area served by a school prior to the date of the proposed closure of the school. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.
[PL 2005, c. 30, §1 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 490, §9 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 30, §1 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 397, §D3 (REV).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3302. General laws applicable (REPEALED)

§3302. General laws applicable
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 490, §10 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3302-A. Care of school property

§3302-A. Care of school property
The commissioner shall have charge of all school property in the unorganized territory.   [PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW).]
1.  School buildings.
The commissioner shall hold and manage the schools of the unorganized territory and provide custody and care, including all necessary repairs, changes and additions to the buildings.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW).]
2.  Books and equipment.
The commissioner shall furnish each school with the books and equipment necessary for the course of study offered in the schools and shall provide students in each school with school books and necessary apparatus without expense to them or their parents. The commissioner shall assure that all necessary school books, apparatus and supplies are seasonably distributed to each school, accurately accounted for and economically used.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW).]
3.  Ownership of school buildings.
School buildings not privately owned in the unorganized territory are declared to be the property of the State and held in trust for the unorganized territory.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW).]
4.  Use of school property.
The commissioner may rent or lease any unused school building or portion of a building for school-related purposes for any purpose which would not interfere with the school programs. The proceeds of the rentals or leases shall be paid to the Unorganized Territory Education and Services Fund established in Title 36, chapter 115.
[PL 1985, c. 603, §2 (AMD).]
5.  Disposal of property.
The commissioner may sell, transfer or dispose of school property, books or equipment in the unorganized territory. The proceeds of any sale, transfer or disposal shall be paid to the Unorganized Territory Education and Services Fund established in Title 36, chapter 115.
[PL 1985, c. 603, §2 (AMD).]
6.  Applicability of general laws relating to illegal conduct.
Sections 6804 and 6807 shall apply to the unorganized territory, except that the commissioner shall stand in place of the school administrative unit. To enforce these laws, action may be brought in the District Court or the Superior Court. All forfeitures collected as part of such enforcement actions shall be deposited to the Unorganized Territory School Fund, except that an amount not to exceed the costs of prosecution may be paid, upon court order, to the county treasury.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1985, c. 490, §11 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 603, §2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3303. Student census

§3303. Student census
By April 1st of each year, the commissioner shall determine the number, names and ages of all students of eligible age in the unorganized territory who have not graduated from high school.   [PL 1985, c. 490, §12 (RPR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 490, §12 (RPR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3304. Tuition students in unorganized units

§3304. Tuition students in unorganized units
A school board may, when it seems advantageous and in the best interest of the students concerned, arrange for students who are entitled to school privileges in its school administrative unit, to attend schools maintained by the State in the unorganized territory, subject to the terms and conditions the commissioner may determine.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  Charges.
[PL 1997, c. 535, §1 (RP).]
1-A.  Charges.
The per pupil tuition charge must be an amount equal to the state average expenditure per elementary pupil during the preceding year, as determined annually by the commissioner pursuant to section 5804, or the receiving school administrative unit's actual expenditure per elementary pupil for the preceding year as calculated by the commissioner, whichever is less.
[PL 2005, c. 115, §1 (AMD).]
2.  Income credited.
The tuition income shall be credited to the Unorganized Territory School and Capital Working Funds for the fiscal year in which it is earned.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §13 (AMD).]
3.  Payments.
The school board shall pay, prior to June 30th of the school year for which a schooling agreement is made any sums agreed on and shall charge these sums to the appropriations of money raised in that school administrative unit.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 490, §13 (AMD). PL 1997, c. 535, §§1,2 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 115, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 3: COMMISSIONER'S POWERS › 20-A §3305. Taking of land

§3305. Taking of land
The following provisions apply to taking land for school purposes in the unorganized territory.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  Taking.
The commissioner may designate, lay out and take a schoolhouse lot not to exceed 3 acres, after 30 days written notice to the owner, if:
A. The owner refuses to sell;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
B. The commissioner determines the price is unreasonable; or   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
C. The owner resides outside the State and has no authorized agent or attorney in the State.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
2.  Appraisal and payment.
Prior to a taking, the commissioner shall appraise the damages and pay or tender the damages to the owner. If the owner does not reside in the State, the commissioner shall deposit the damages with the Treasurer of State for the owner's use.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
3.  Reversion to owner.
If the State does not erect a school building on the lot within 3 years from the date of taking, the lot shall revert to the owner, the owner's heirs or assigns.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
4.  Enlargement or extension of lot.
The commissioner may extend or enlarge a schoolhouse lot by purchase or otherwise, on the terms and conditions and in the manner the commissioner determines proper, or by the exercise of eminent domain or property rights. Using eminent domain, the commissioner may not take more than 25 acres for one project. In using eminent domain, the commissioner is governed by Title 35-A, chapter 65. Land taken may not be within 50 feet of a dwelling.
[PL 1993, c. 494, §2 (AMD).]
5.  Fencing.
When a schoolhouse lot or playground requires fencing, the commissioner shall fence it.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
6.  Appeals.
If the owner is aggrieved at the location of the lot or the damages awarded, that owner may apply to the State Tax Assessor within 3 months. The State Tax Assessor may change the location and assess the damages. If the damages are increased or the location changed, the State shall pay the damages and costs, otherwise the costs shall be paid by the applicant.
[PL 1983, c. 806, §29 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 806, §29 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 494, §2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 5: ORGANIZATION AND DEORGANIZATION › 20-A §3401. Organization of unorganized unit

§3401. Organization of unorganized unit
If an unorganized unit becomes organized as a municipality or plantation, it shall, within 5 years of the date of organization, pay to the Treasurer of State for each school building within its limits erected or remodeled prior to August 20, 1951, a sum to be determined by the commissioner from records kept by the commissioner of the cost of these buildings, lots and improvements. The sum shall be credited to the General Fund. A municipality or plantation dissatisfied with the sum determined by the commissioner may, after a vote taken by the municipality or plantation at a regular or special meeting called for the purpose, appeal to the Governor. The Governor's decision shall be final.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 5: ORGANIZATION AND DEORGANIZATION › 20-A §3402. Deorganization of an organized unit

§3402. Deorganization of an organized unit
If a municipality or plantation becomes deorganized by the Legislature, all school property in that municipality shall become the property of the State and under the charge of the commissioner, as is other school property in the unorganized territory.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 119: UNORGANIZED TERRITORY › Subchapter 5: ORGANIZATION AND DEORGANIZATION › 20-A §3403. Failure of civil organization

§3403. Failure of civil organization
1.  Failure of organization.
If the civil organization of a municipality or plantation becomes defunct, through failure to hold the annual meeting, failure to fill vacancies in necessary offices or in any other manner, and until the municipality or plantation recovers its civil organization or it is deorganized by the Legislature, the commissioner shall:
A. Assume charge of all school property within its area;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
B. Require an accounting of all municipal or plantation school funds; and   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
C. Provide schools for children between 5 and 20 years of age whose parents are residents of the municipality or plantation.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
2.  School privileges.
The commissioner may provide school privileges under the supervision of an agent of the unorganized territory or a special agent appointed for this purpose.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
3.  Expenses.
The expense of these school privileges shall be paid from the appropriation for schools in the unorganized territory.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
4.  Recovery of expenses.
If a municipality or plantation recovers its civil organization within 2 years, the expenses paid under subsection 3, on the recommendation of the commissioner, shall be deducted by the Treasurer of State from school funds that may subsequently become payable to the municipality. The Treasurer of State shall credit these deductions to the Unorganized Territory School and Working Capital Funds.
[PL 1985, c. 490, §15 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1985, c. 490, §15 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 20-A §3601. Enters

§3601. Enters
The State of Maine enters into the following compact with the state of New Hampshire subject to the terms and conditions stated in this chapter.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 20-A §3602. Statement of policy

§3602. Statement of policy
It is the purpose of this compact to increase the educational opportunities within the states of Maine and New Hampshire by encouraging the formation of interstate school districts which will each be a natural social and economic region with adequate financial resources and a number of pupils sufficient to permit the efficient use of school facilities within the interstate district and to provide improved instruction. The state boards of education of Maine and New Hampshire may formulate and adopt additional standards consistent with this purpose and with these standards; and the formation of any interstate school district and the adoption of its articles of agreement shall be subject to the approval of both state boards as set forth.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 20-A §3603. Requirement of congressional approval

§3603. Requirement of congressional approval
This compact shall not become effective until approved by the United States Congress.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 20-A §3604. Definitions

§3604. Definitions
The terms used in this compact shall be construed as follows, unless a different meaning is clearly apparent from the language or context:   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  Commissioner.
"Commissioner" shall refer to the Commissioner of Education.
[PL 1989, c. 700, Pt. A, §48 (AMD).]
2.  Elementary school.
"Elementary school" shall mean a school which includes all grades from kindergarten or grade one through not less than grade 6 nor more than grade 8.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
3.  Interstate board.
"Interstate board" shall refer to the board serving an interstate school district.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
4.  Interstate school district.
"Interstate school district" and "interstate district" shall mean a school district composed of one or more school districts located in the State of Maine associated under this compact with one or more school districts located in the state of New Hampshire and may include either the elementary schools, the secondary schools, or both.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
5.  Joint action.
"Joint action" where joint action by both state boards is required, each state board shall deliberate and vote by its own majority, but shall separately reach the same result or take the same action as the other state board.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
6.  Maine board.
"Maine board" shall refer to the Maine State Board of Education.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
7.  Member school district.
"Member school district" and "member district" shall mean a school administrative unit located either in Maine or New Hampshire which is included within the boundaries of a proposed or established interstate school district.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
8.  New Hampshire board.
"New Hampshire board" shall refer to the New Hampshire state board of education.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
9.  Professional staff personnel.
"Professional staff personnel" and "instructional staff personnel" shall include superintendents, assistant superintendents, administrative assistants, principals, guidance counselors, special education personnel, school nurses, therapists, teachers, and other certificated personnel.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
10.  Secondary school.
"Secondary school" shall mean a school which includes all grades beginning no lower than grade 7 and no higher than grade 12.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
11.  Warrant.
"Warrant" or "warning" means the same for both states.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1989, c. 700, §A48 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3605. Creation of planning committee

§3605. Creation of planning committee
The Maine and New Hampshire commissioners of education have the power acting jointly to constitute and discharge one or more interstate school district planning committees. Each such planning committee consists of at least 2 voters from each of a group of 2 or more neighboring member districts. One of the representatives from each member district must be a member of its school board, whose term on the planning committee is concurrent with that member's term as a school board member. The term of each member of a planning committee who is not also a school board member expires on June 30th of the 3rd year following that member's appointment. The existence of any planning committee may be terminated either by vote of a majority of its members or by joint action of the commissioners. In forming and appointing members to an interstate school district planning board, the commissioners shall consider and take into account recommendations and nominations made by school boards of member districts. A member of a planning committee may not be disqualified because that member is at the same time a member of another planning board or committee created under this compact or under any other provisions of law. Any existing informal interstate school planning committee may be reconstituted as a formal planning committee in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph, and its previous deliberations adopted and ratified by the reorganized formal planning committee. Vacancies on a planning committee must be filled by the commissioners acting jointly.   [RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §3 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 806, §30 (AMD). RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §3 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3606. Operating procedures of planning committee

§3606. Operating procedures of planning committee
Each interstate school district planning committee shall meet in the first instance at the call of any member, and shall organize by the election of a chairman and clerk-treasurer, each of whom shall be a resident of a different state. Subsequent meetings may be called by either officer of the committee. The members of the committee shall serve without pay. The member districts shall appropriate money on an equal basis at each annual meeting to meet the expenses of the committee, including the cost of publication and distribution of reports and advertising. From time to time the commissioners may add additional members and additional member districts to the committee, and may remove members and member districts from the committee. An interstate school district planning committee shall act by majority vote of its membership present and voting.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3607. Duties of interstate school district planning committee

§3607. Duties of interstate school district planning committee
It shall be the duty of an interstate school district planning committee, in consultation with the commissioners and the state departments of education: To study the advisability of establishing an interstate school district in accordance with the standards set forth in section 3602, its organization, operation and control, and the advisability of constructing, maintaining and operating a school or schools to serve the needs of such interstate district; to estimate the construction and operating costs thereof; to investigate the methods of financing such school or schools, and any other matters pertaining to the organization and operation of an interstate school district; and to submit a report or reports of its findings and recommendations to the several member districts.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3609. Hearings

§3609. Hearings
If the planning committee recommends the formation of an interstate school district, it shall hold at least one public hearing on its report and the proposed articles of agreement within the proposed interstate school district in Maine, and at least one public hearing thereon within the proposed interstate school district in New Hampshire. The planning committee shall give such notice thereof as it may determine to be reasonable, provided that such notice shall include at least one publication in a newspaper of general circulation within the proposed interstate school district not less than 15 days, not counting the date of publication and not counting the date of the hearing, before the date of the first hearing. Such hearings may be adjourned from time to time and from place to place. The planning committee may revise the proposed articles of agreement after the date of the hearings. It shall not be required to hold further hearings on the revised articles of agreement but may hold one or more further hearings after notice similar to that required for the first hearings if the planning committee in its sole discretion determines that the revisions are so substantial in nature as to require further presentation to the public before submission to the state boards of education.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3610. Approval by state boards

§3610. Approval by state boards
After the hearings a copy of the proposed articles of agreement, as revised, signed by a majority of the planning committee, shall be submitted by it to each state board. The state boards may if they find that the articles of agreement are in accord with the standards set forth in this compact and in accordance with sound educational policy, approve the same as submitted, or refer them back to the planning committee for further study. The planning committee may make additional revisions to the proposed articles of agreement to conform to the recommendations of the state boards. Further hearings on the proposed articles of agreement shall not be required unless ordered by the state boards in their discretion. In exercising such discretion, the state boards shall take into account whether or not the additional revisions are so substantial in nature as to require further presentation to the public. If both state boards find that the articles of agreement as further revised are in accord with the standards set forth in this compact and in accordance with sound educational policy, they shall approve the same. After approval by both state boards, each state board shall cause the articles of agreement to be submitted to the school boards of the several member districts in each state for acceptance by the member districts as provided in section 3611. At the same time, each state board shall designate the form of warrant, date, time, place, and period of voting for the special meeting of the member district to be held in accordance with the section 3611.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3611. Adoption by member districts

§3611. Adoption by member districts
Upon receipt of written notice from the state board in its state of the approval of the articles of agreement by both state boards, the school board of each member district shall cause the articles of agreement to be filed with the member district clerk. Within 10 days after receipt of such notice, the school board shall issue its warrant for a special meeting of the member district, the warrant to be in the form, and the meeting to be held at the time and place and in the manner prescribed by the state board. No approval of the Superior Court shall be required for such special school district meeting in New Hampshire. Voting shall be with the use of the checklist by a ballot substantially in the following form:
"Shall the school district accept the provisions of the Maine and New Hampshire Interstate School Compact providing for the establishment of an interstate school district, together with the school districts of .............. and .............., etc., in accordance with the proposed articles of agreement filed with the school district (town, city or incorporated school district) clerk?"
Yes ( ) No ( )
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
If the articles of agreement included the nomination of individual school directors, those nominated from each member district shall be included in the ballot and voted upon, such election to become effective upon the formation of an interstate school district.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
If a majority of the voters present and voting in a member district vote in the affirmative, the clerk for such member district shall forthwith send to the state board in its state a certified copy of the warrant, certificate of posting, and minutes of the meeting of the district. If the state boards of both states find that a majority of the voters present and voting in each member district have voted in favor of the establishment of the interstate school district, they shall issue a joint certificate to that effect; and such certificate shall be conclusive evidence of the lawful organization and formation of the interstate school district as of its date of issuance.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW). PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 2: PROCEDURE FOR FORMATION OF AN INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICT › 20-A §3612. Resubmission

§3612. Resubmission
If the proposed articles of agreement are adopted by one or more of the member districts but rejected by one or more of the member districts, the state boards may resubmit them, in the same form as previously submitted, to the rejecting member districts, in which case the school boards thereof shall resubmit them to the voters in accordance with section 3611. An affirmative vote in accordance therewith shall have the same effect as though the articles of agreement had been adopted in the first instance. In the alternative, the state boards may either discharge the planning committee, or refer the articles of agreement back for further consideration to the same or a reconstituted planning committee, which shall have all of the powers and duties as the planning committee as originally constituted.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 3: POWERS OF INTERSTATE SCHOOL DISTRICTS › 20-A §3613. Powers

§3613. Powers
1.  Powers.
Each interstate school district shall be a body corporate and politic, with power to:
A. Acquire, construct, extend, improve, staff, operate, manage and govern public schools within its boundaries;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
B. Sue and be sued, subject to the limitations of liability hereinafter set forth;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
C. Have a seal and alter the same at pleasure;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
D. Adopt, maintain and amend bylaws not inconsistent with this compact, and the laws of the 2 states;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
E. Acquire by purchase, condemnation, lease or otherwise, real and personal property for the use of its schools;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
F. Enter into contracts and incur debts;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
G. Borrow money for the purposes set forth, and to issue its bonds or notes therefor;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
H. Make contracts with and accept grants and aid from the United States, the State of Maine, the State of New Hampshire, any agency or municipality thereof, and private corporations and individuals for the construction, maintenance, reconstruction, operation and financing of its schools; and to do any and all things necessary in order to avail itself of such aid and coorperation;   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
I. Employ such assistants, agents, servants and independent contractors as it shall deem necessary or desirable for its purposes; and   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
J. Take any other action which is necessary or appropriate in order to exercise any of the foregoing powers.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3614. General

§3614. General
Votes of the district shall be taken at a duly warned meeting held at any place in the district, at which all of the eligible legal voters of the member districts shall be entitled to vote, except as otherwise provided with respect to the election of directors.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3615. Eligibility of voters

§3615. Eligibility of voters
Any resident who would be eligible to vote at a meeting of a member district being held at the same time shall be eligible to vote at a meeting of the interstate district. The town clerks in each Maine member district and the supervisors of the checklist of each New Hampshire district shall respectively prepare a checklist of eligible voters for each meeting of the interstate district in the same manner, and they shall have all the same powers and duties with respect to eligibility of voters in their districts as for a meeting of a member district.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3616. Warning of meetings

§3616. Warning of meetings
A meeting shall be warned by a warrant addressed to the residents of the interstate school district qualified to vote in district affairs, stating the time and place of the meeting and the subject matter of the business to be acted upon. The warrant shall be signed by the clerk and by a majority of the directors. Upon written application of 10 or more voters in the district, presented to the directors or to one of them, at least 25 days before the day prescribed for an annual meeting, the directors shall insert in their warrant for such meeting any subject matter specified in such application.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3617. Posting and publication of warrant

§3617. Posting and publication of warrant
The directors shall cause an attested copy of the warrant to be posted at the place of meeting, and a like copy at a public place in each member district at least 20 days, not counting the date of posting and the date of meeting, before the date of the meeting. In addition, the directors shall cause the warrant to be advertised in a newspaper of general circulation on at least one occasion, such publication to occur at least 10 days, not counting the date of publication and not counting the date of the meeting, before the date of the meeting. Although no further notice shall be required, the directors may give such further notice of the meeting as they in their discretion deem appropriate under the circumstances.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3618. Return of warrant

§3618. Return of warrant
The warrant with a certificate thereon, verified by oath, stating the time and place when and where copies of the warrant were posted and published, must be given to the clerk of the interstate school district at or before the time of the meeting, and must be recorded by the clerk in the records of the interstate school district.   [RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §4 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 806, §31 (AMD). RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §4 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3619. Organization meeting

§3619. Organization meeting
The commissioners, acting jointly, shall fix a time and place for a special meeting of the qualified voters within the interstate school district for the purpose of organization, and shall prepare and issue the warrant for the meeting after consultation with the interstate school district planning board and the members-elect, if any, of the interstate school board of directors. Such meeting must be held within 60 days after the date of issuance of the certificate of formation, unless the time is further extended by the joint action of the state boards. At the organization meeting the commissioner of education of the state where the meeting is held, or that commissioner of education's designate, shall preside in the first instance, and the following business must be transacted:   [RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §5 (COR).]
1.  Temporary moderator and clerk.
A temporary moderator and a temporary clerk shall be elected from among the qualified voters who shall serve until a moderator and clerk respectively have been elected and qualified.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
2.  Officers.
A moderator, a clerk, a treasurer and 3 auditors shall be elected to serve until the next annual meeting and thereafter until their successors are elected and qualified. Unless previously elected, a board of school directors shall be elected to serve until their successors are elected and qualified.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
3.  Date of annual meeting.
The date for the annual meeting shall be established.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
4.  Expenses.
Provision shall be made for the payment of any organizational or other expense incurred on behalf of the district before the organization meeting, including the cost of architects, surveyors, contractors, attorneys and educational or other consultants or experts.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
5.  Other business.
Any other business, the subject matter of which has been included in the warrant, and which the voters would have had power to transact at an annual meeting.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 806, §32 (AMD). RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §5 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3620. Annual meetings

§3620. Annual meetings
An annual meeting of the district shall be held between January 15th and June 1st of each year at such time as the interstate district may by vote determine. Once determined, the date of the annual meeting shall remain fixed until changed by vote of the interstate district at a subsequent annual or special meeting. At each annual meeting the following business shall be transacted:   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  Officers.
Necessary officers shall be elected.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
2.  Appropriation.
Money shall be appropriated for the support of the interstate district schools for the fiscal year beginning the following July 1st.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
3.  Other business.
Such other business as may properly come before the meeting.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3621. Special meetings

§3621. Special meetings
A special meeting of the district shall be held whenever, in the opinion of the directors, there is occasion therefor, or whenever written application shall have been made by 5% or more of the voters based on the checklists as prepared for the last preceding meeting, setting forth the subject matter upon which such action is desired. A special meeting may appropriate money without compliance with RSA 338 or RSA 197.3 which would otherwise require the approval of the New Hampshire Superior Court.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3622. Certification of records

§3622. Certification of records
The clerk of an interstate school district shall have the power to certify the record of the votes adopted at an interstate school district meeting to the respective commissioners and state boards and, where required, for filing with a secretary of state.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 4: DISTRICT MEETINGS › 20-A §3623. Method of voting at school district meetings

§3623. Method of voting at school district meetings
Voting at meetings of interstate school districts shall take place as follows:   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
1.  School directors.
A separate ballot shall be prepared for each member district, listing the candidates for interstate school director to represent such member district; and any candidates for interstate school director at large; and the voters of each member district shall register on a separate ballot their choice for the office of school director or directors. In the alternative, the articles of agreement may provide for the election of school directors by one or more of the member districts at an election otherwise held for the choice of school or other municipal officers.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
2.  Other votes.
Except as otherwise provided in the articles of agreement or this compact, with respect to all other votes, the voters of the interstate school district shall vote as one body irrespective of the member districts in which they are resident, and a simple majority of those present and voting at any duly warned meeting shall carry the vote. Voting for officers to be elected at any meeting, other than school directors, shall be by ballot or voice, as the interstate district may determine, either in its articles of agreement or by a vote of the meeting.
[PL 1981, c. 693, §§ 5, 8 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 20-A: EDUCATION › Part 2: SCHOOL ORGANIZATION › Chapter 121: MAINE-NEW HAMPSHIRE INTERSTATE SCHOOL COMPACT › Article 5: OFFICERS › 20-A §3624. Officers; general

§3624. Officers; general
The officers of an interstate school district consist of a board of school directors, a chair of the board, a vice-chair of the board, a secretary of the board, a moderator, a clerk, a treasurer and 3 auditors. Except as otherwise specifically provided, they are eligible to take office immediately following their election; they shall serve until the next annual meeting of the interstate district and until their successors are elected and qualified. Each shall take an oath for the faithful performance of that officer's duties before the moderator, or a notary public or a justice of the peace of the state in which the oath is administered. Their compensation must be fixed by vote of the district. A person is not eligible to hold any district office unless that person is a voter in the district. A custodian, school teacher, principal, superintendent or other employee of an interstate district acting as such is not eligible to hold office as a school director.   [RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §6 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 693, §§5,8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 806, §33 (AMD). RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. B, §6 (COR).