Maine Statute | Act | Code |Title 07. Agriculture And Animals| US Code - US Statute | Chapter 01. Department Of Agriculture, Food And Rural Resources (heading. Pl 1979, C. 751, @19 (amd))

USA Statutes : maine
Title : Title 07. AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Chapter : Chapter 01. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING. PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

Title 7 - §1-A. Legislative intent

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§1-A. Legislative intent

The Legislature finds agriculture to be a major industry in the State, contributing substantially to the state's overall economy, essential to the maintenance and strengthening of rural life and values and necessary to the preservation of the health, safety and welfare of all of the people of this State. [1979, c. 731, § 4 (new).] div>
The survival of the family farm is of special concern to the people of the State, and the ability of the family farm to prosper, while producing an abundance of high quality food and fiber, deserves a place of high priority in the determination of public policy. For this purpose there is established the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources. [1979, c. 731, § 4 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1979,
Ch. 731,
§4 (NEW).
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §1-B. Preservation of rural life and values; joint responsibility

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§1-B. Preservation of rural life and values; joint responsibility

The Legislature finds there has been a dramatic increase of interest in rural living and small and part-time farming; that a high proportion of the population in rural areas is poor, elderly and underemployed; agriculture is significant to the State's economy and that a prospering, stable rural community contributes to the rural quality of life, the preservation of productive farm, farmlands and open space. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (cor).] div>
The Legislature finds that programs that improve the employment opportunity, rural skills, food supply, health and nutrition of the rural people of Maine will improve the economy of Maine and improve the rural quality of life and the health of people and are therefore in the public interest. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (cor).] div>
The Legislature further finds the preservation of rural life and values in the State to be the joint responsibility of all public agencies, local, state and federal, whose policies and programs substantially impact the economy and general welfare of people who reside in rural Maine, such as the development and implementation of programs that assist in the maintenance of family farms, provide specialized opportunities for education and technical training and improve health and nutrition. The state agencies in addition to the department include, but are not limited to, the Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor and the Department of Conservation. [RR 1991, c. 2, §21 (cor); 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (rev).]

Section History:
PL 1983,
Ch. 532,
§1 (NEW).
PL 1989,
Ch. 700,
§A29 (AMD).
RR 1991,
Ch. 2,
§21 (COR).
PL 2003,
Ch. 689,
§B6 (REV).
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §1. Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources
Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§1. Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources

The Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, is established and is maintained for the improvement of agriculture and the advancement of the interests of husbandry. The Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources is referred to in this Title as the "department" and consists of the Commissioner of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, in this Title called the "commissioner," and the following: The Aroostook Water and Soil Management Board, the Board of Pesticide Control, the Maine Milk Commission, the Maine Potato Board, the Seed Potato Board, the Harness Racing Commission and the Board of Veterinary Medicine. The commissioner is appointed by the Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, and holds office during the pleasure of the Governor. The commissioner is entitled to receive actual expenses incurred in the performance of the commissioner's official duties. The commissioner may employ such clerical labor as may be required, subject to the Civil Service Law, and may expend such sums for postage, telephone, telegraph and other general office expenses as may be necessary in the performance of the commissioner's duties, the same to be paid out of any money appropriated by the Legislature for such purpose. [1995, c. 693, §3 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1965,
Ch. 253,
§1-3 (AMD).
PL 1965,
Ch. 421,
§3,4 (AMD).
PL 1967,
Ch. 476,
§13 (AMD).
PL 1969,
Ch. 504,
§15 (AMD).
PL 1971,
Ch. 490,
§1,3 (AMD).
PL 1971,
Ch. 594,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 95,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 537,
§5 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 788,
§29 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 444,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 477,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 771,
§96 (RPR).
PL 1979,
Ch. 731,
§2,3 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 308,
§1,14 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 785,
§B42 (AMD).
PL 1987,
Ch. 435,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 837,
§A12 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 502,
§C3 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 693,
§3 (AMD).
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §10. Biennial report (REPEALED)

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§10. Biennial report (REPEALED)

Section History:
PL 1975,
Ch. 771,
§98 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 837,
§A14 (RP ).
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §11. Annual account of expenditures

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§11. Annual account of expenditures

The commissioner shall render on the first day of July of each year a detailed and itemized account of all expenses of his office, of all institutes held and of all moneys paid out for employees under the provisions hereof, all sums of money paid for prizes on exhibits and for all other purposes. For this purpose he shall keep necessary books in which an account of all moneys received and expended shall be entered, which books shall be open to public inspection.
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §12-A. Emergency rules

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§12-A. Emergency rules

Notwithstanding Title 5, section 8054, subsection 3, an emergency rule adopted under any of the provisions of chapter 201, 301, 303, 305, 401, 403, 405-A, 409, 411 or 525 may be renewed when the commissioner determines that the circumstances creating the emergency continue to exist. Emergency rules may be renewed for successive 90-day periods under this section until the department has a reasonable opportunity to conduct rulemaking pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375. [1991, c. 785, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1991,
Ch. 785,
§1 (NEW).
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §12. Rules and standards

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§12. Rules and standards

The commissioner shall adopt, consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375, rules for carrying out this Title and all other statutes delegating responsibility to him or the department. He may fix standards of purity, quality or strength when such standards are not specified or fixed by law, and shall publish them together with such other information concerning articles of commercial feeding stuff, commercial fertilizer, drug or food as he may deem to be of public benefit. [1983, c. 308, § § 3, 14 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1977,
Ch. 694,
§41 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 308,
§3,14 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §13. Enforcement

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§13. Enforcement

The commissioner shall diligently enforce all provisions of this Title and all other statutes delegating responsibility to him or the department and shall be entitled to and shall receive the assistance of the Attorney General and of the several county attorneys. He may recover the penalties imposed for violations of this Title and Title 32, chapter 27 in a civil action brought in his own name, the venue to be as in other civil actions, and if he prevails in any such action, shall recover full costs, or he may prosecute for violations hereof by complaint or indictment, and such prosecution shall be commenced in the county in which the offense was committed. [1983, c. 308, § § 4, 14 (amd).] div>
For the purposes of chapter 103, subchapter X, notwithstanding the provisions of the District Court Civil Rules, Rule 80E, paragraph (b), the commissioner may obtain an administrative inspection warrant upon demonstrating the statutory or other authority pursuant to which he is authorized to conduct inspections, the premises to be inspected, the purpose of the inspection and that the inspection sought is reasonable and represents a minimal intrusion in furtherance of a legitimate governmental obligation of the department. This demonstration shall be deemed to be a demonstration of probable cause. [1981, c. 513, § 1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§4 (AMD).
PL 1981,
Ch. 513,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 308,
§4,14 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §14. Hearings on violations

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§14. Hearings on violations

When the commissioner becomes cognizant of the violation of any provision of this Title and all other statutes delegating responsibility to him or the department, he shall provide opportunity for hearing in a manner consistent with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375, and shall, in any case, cause a copy of the finding or, in case of a packer of food, a copy of the charge to be preferred, to be given to that person concerned and the person from whom the sample was obtained, and the person whose name appears upon the label, if a resident of the State. When the hearing relates to the packing of apples, it shall be held in the county where the inspection was made. [1983, c. 308, § § 5, 14 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1967,
Ch. 494,
§5 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§5 (AMD).
PL 1977,
Ch. 694,
§42 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 308,
§5,14 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §15. Jurisdiction; disposal of fines

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§15. Jurisdiction; disposal of fines

The District Court and the Superior Court shall have concurrent jurisdiction of actions brought for the recovery of penalties imposed by this Title, Title 17, chapter 43 and Title 32, chapter 27, and of prosecutions for violations hereof. All fines received under this Title and Title 32, chapter 27 shall accrue to the Treasurer of State for deposit in the General Fund. [1973, c. 598, § 61 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§6 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §16. Penalties

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§16. Penalties

Unless a specific penalty has otherwise been provided, a person, firm, partnership or corporation that violates a provision of this Title or a rule adopted pursuant to this Title commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §2 (rpr); Pt. C, §1 (aff).]

Section History:
PL 1977,
Ch. 696,
§54 (RPR).
PL 2001,
Ch. 421,
§B2 (RPR).
PL 2001,
Ch. 421,
§C1 (AFF).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §17. Investigation authorized

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§17. Investigation authorized

In addition to duties expressly authorized in this Title, the commissioner may, upon complaint or for other reasonable cause, investigate any farm operation, method or practice with respect to animal waste in order to determine whether such operation, method or practice may have an adverse effect upon waters of the State as defined in Title 38, section 361-A, subsection 7. [2005, c. 382, Pt. B, §1 (amd).] div>
When in the opinion of the commissioner such adverse effects are evident, he shall bring such fact to the attention of the appropriate individuals and agencies empowered to restrain such practices and equipped to provide assistance which may bring about necessary improvements in the operation, method or practice cited. The cost of such investigation shall be borne by the State. [1973, c. 541 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 541,
§ (NEW).
PL 2005,
Ch. 382,
§B1 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §18-A. Connectors (REPEALED)

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§18-A. Connectors (REPEALED)

Section History:
PL 1993,
Ch. 341,
§3 (NEW).
PL 1993,
Ch. 743,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 480,
§2 (RP ).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §18-B. Ring holding devices

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§18-B. Ring holding devices

A person may not sell or offer for sale products in containers connected by a separate holding device constructed of plastic rings with at least one hole larger than 1 34 inches in diameter, unless the device decomposes by photodegradation, chemical degradation or biodegradation within a reasonable period of time upon exposure to the elements, in accordance with regulations adopted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, effective September 1, 1994 and codified at 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 238. [1995, c. 480, §3 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1995,
Ch. 480,
§3 (NEW).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §18. Connectors (REPEALED)

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§18. Connectors (REPEALED)

Section History:
PL 1989,
Ch. 869,
§C1 (NEW).
PL 1989,
Ch. 876,
§B2 (NEW).
PL 1991,
Ch. 415,
§1 (RPR).
PL 1991,
Ch. 833,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1993,
Ch. 341,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1993,
Ch. 341,
§8 (AFF).
PL 1993,
Ch. 743,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 480,
§1 (RP ).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §19. Holding of real estate

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§19. Holding of real estate

The commissioner may accept, hold, administer, retain and dispose of interests in real estate in order to further the purposes of this Title. [2001, c. 548, §3 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1991,
Ch. 415,
§2 (NEW).
PL 2001,
Ch. 548,
§3 (AMD).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §2-A. Hunters for the Hungry Program; acceptance of donations

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§2-A. Hunters for the Hungry Program; acceptance of donations

The department and those recipient agencies participating in the department's food assistance distribution programs may accept wild game meat from persons participating in the Hunters for the Hungry Program established under Title 12, section 10108. The department may facilitate the acceptance of that meat by its recipient agencies through coordination with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and may undertake educational and promotional efforts on behalf of the program. [2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §11 (amd); c. 614, §9 (aff).]

Section History:
PL 1995,
Ch. 667,
§C1 (NEW).
PL 2003,
Ch. 414,
§B11 (AMD).
PL 2003,
Ch. 414,
§D7 (AFF).
PL 2003,
Ch. 614,
§9 (AFF).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §2-B. Rural Rehabilitation Operating Fund

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§2-B. Rural Rehabilitation Operating Fund

The Rural Rehabilitation Operating Fund is established as a nonlapsing fund in the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources to be used for the administrative expenditures incurred in the operation of the Rural Rehabilitation Trust Fund and the issuance of scholarships and loans from that trust fund. The Rural Rehabilitation Operating Fund must receive all interest earned on the trust fund balance and any interest collected on outstanding loans receivable. Unexpended balances in the Rural Rehabilitation Operating Fund at the end of a fiscal year may not lapse, but are carried forward to the next fiscal year to be used for the same purpose. [1999, c. 401, Pt. H, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1999,
Ch. 401,
§H1 (NEW).
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Office of the Revisor of Statutes
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Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §2. -- duties

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§2. -- duties

The commissioner is the chief executive charged with the enforcement of all statutes delegating responsibility to him or the department and shall be vigilant in discovering violations thereof and making complaint to the proper authorities. He shall by personal observation, investigation and correspondence acquaint himself with the methods and wants of practical husbandry, the means of fertilization and the adaptation of various products to the soils and climate of the State and with the progress of scientific and practical agriculture elsewhere, with a view to the more complete development of the natural resources of the State. He shall gather statistics of information concerning agriculture and publish the same annually. He shall assist the farmers of the State, in so far as is practicable, to secure farm help and to promote increased production of farm crops through the selection, the growing and the dissemination of superior strains of seeds. He shall make and preserve a full record of all rules and regulations promulgated under this Title, and all payments and expenses incurred hereunder, and all other transactions performed by him in the discharge of his duties. He shall collect the legal and usual fees payable to him by virtue of his office and shall pay them over forthwith to the Treasurer of State. [1979, c. 731, §5 (amd).] div>
The commissioner shall be the chief administrative officer of the department. He shall have the following duties in addition to those specified in this section: [1971, c. 594, §2 (new).]

1. Budget. Prepare a budget for the department. [1971, c. 594, §2 (new).]

2. Personnel. Transfer personnel within the department to insure the efficient utilization of department personnel. [1971, c. 594, §2 (new).]

3. Purchases. Coordinate the purchase and use of all department equipment. [1971, c. 594, §2 (new).]

4. Review. Review the function and operation of the divisions to insure that overlapping functions and operations are eliminated. [1971, c. 594, §2 (new).]

5. Report. Report and make recommendations to the Governor and Legislature with respect to methods of stimulating and encouraging the growth and modernization of agricultural enterprises in this State. The report must be submitted to the Governor and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture matters no later than December 1st of each even numbered year. For purposes of obtaining information, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources may hold public hearings throughout the State, after giving public notice of the public hearings. [1991, c. 837, Pt. A, §13 (amd).]
div>
The commissioner does not have authority to exercise or interfere with the exercise of any discretionary statutory authority granted to the following, which authority is exclusively within the specific board, bureau, agency, commission, committee or other governmental unit: the Maine Milk Commission, the Seed Potato Board, the Harness Racing Commission, the Maine Potato Board, the Board of Veterinary Medicine and the Board of Pesticide Control. [1995, c. 693, §4 (amd).] div>
In addition, the commissioner shall be concerned with the quality of life of Maine farmers and rural communities. The commissioner shall promote: farm financing and rural development proposals; conservation and preservation of agricultural lands; increased and improved production of beef, poultry, sheep, dairy beef and other livestock; expanded and improved production of potatoes, fruits and other vegetables and horticultural ventures; coordinated foreign and domestic marketing of Maine agricultural products; in conjunction with the university, crop development and integrated pest management; and conservation of nonrenewable energy resources and utilization of renewable energy resources in conjunction with the State Planning Office. To accomplish these objectives, the commissioner is authorized for, or on behalf of, Maine's farmers and rural community: to engage in research and educational programs; to participate directly or indirectly in programs to encourage and enable individuals to enter agricultural or other rural enterprises; to institute litigation or upon request to represent farmers or other members of the rural community in litigation where the commissioner determines that such litigation may be beneficial to agricultural industry as a whole; and to exercise all other powers of an agency of State Government. The commissioner may study such issues and, consistent with statute, take such actions either individually, for, or on behalf of, the State's farmers or rural residents, or jointly with such other persons, agencies or organizations as the commissioner determines may benefit the State's farmers and rural communities. To further accomplish these objectives, the commissioner is authorized beginning July 1, 1991, on behalf of the State's rural community, to administer food assistance programs including the receipt, distribution and administration of federal and state funds, including block grants, for food assistance. [1991, c. 9, Pt. I, §6 (amd).] div>
The commissioner may prepare and distribute printed and audio-visual materials on matters within his statutory jurisdiction. There is established within the department a revolving fund to cover the printing and distribution costs of these materials. The commissioner shall fix the prices at which publications of the department may be sold or delivered. The department shall retain, without charge, an appropriate number of each publication for complimentary distribution. Income from the sale of publications that were charged to the revolving fund and any other moneys the commissioner may receive, from whatever source, consistent with the purposes of this section, shall be credited to the revolving fund to be used as a continuing carrying account to carry out the purposes of the revolving funds. [1983, c. 10, §1 (new).] div>
The commissioner shall review proposed laws and rules that affect agricultural activity for their impact on soil tillage and animal grazing practices and their impact on the storage and use of animal manures and chemical fertilizers. The commissioner shall analyze the qualitative and quantitative impacts of proposed laws and rules that affect agricultural activity and present the analysis in public testimony to the Legislature on the proposed laws and rules. [1989, c. 836, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 594,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 95,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 444,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 477,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 584,
§ (AMD).
PL 1979,
Ch. 731,
§5-7,19 (AMD).
PL 1981,
Ch. 372,
§ (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 10,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 308,
§2,14 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 501,
§DD18 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 701,
§1,6 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 836,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 878,
§B7 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 9,
§I6 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 837,
§A13 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 693,
§4 (AMD).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §20. Confidential information

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§20. Confidential information

1. Types of information. Information provided to the department voluntarily or to fulfill reporting requirements is designated as confidential for the purposes of Title 1, section 402, subsection 3, paragraph A if:

A. The person to whom the information belongs or pertains has requested that it be designated as confidential; and [1999, c. 140, §1 (new).]

B. The department has determined that failure to designate the information as confidential would provide competitors an opportunity to obtain business or competitive advantage over the person to whom the information belongs or pertains or would result in loss or other significant detriment to that person. [1999, c. 140, §1 (new).]

Summary reports of information designated as confidential may be published using aggregate data that does not reveal the activities of an individual person or firm. [1999, c. 140, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1999,
Ch. 140,
§1 (NEW).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §3. Bureaus and divisions

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§3. Bureaus and divisions

The commissioner may establish and organize such bureaus and divisions in the department as he deems necessary and may incorporate the commissions, boards and committees of the department within these bureaus and divisions. The commissioner may issue such administrative orders as he deems necessary to carry out the functions of the department. [1979, c. 731, §8 (rpr).] div>
Directors are unclassified employees and are appointed by the commissioner. [2005, c. 337, §3 (new); §4 (aff).]

Section History:
PL 1967,
Ch. 300,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1971,
Ch. 594,
§3 (RPR).
PL 1973,
Ch. 598,
§2 (RPR).
PL 1979,
Ch. 731,
§8 (RPR).
PL 2005,
Ch. 337,
§3 (AMD).
PL 2005,
Ch. 337,
§4 (AFF).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §4. Rules of construction

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§4. Rules of construction

The word "person" as used in this Title shall be construed to import both the singular and the plural, as the case demands, and shall include corporations, companies, societies and associations. When construing and enforcing this Title, the act, omission or failure of any officer, agent or other person acting for or empowered by any corporation, company, society or association within the scope of his employment or office, shall in every case be deemed to be the act, omission or failure of such corporation, company, society or association as well as that of the person.
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §5. Deputies

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§5. Deputies

The commissioner may appoint and fix the compensation of those deputies that in the commissioner's judgment are required to assist and enable the commissioner to carry out all laws, the execution of which is entrusted to the commissioner. These deputies hold office during the pleasure of the commissioner. [1997, c. 643, Pt. NN, §3 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1975,
Ch. 771,
§97 (AMD).
PL 1979,
Ch. 731,
§9 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 502,
§C4 (AMD).
PL 1997,
Ch. 643,
§NN3 (AMD).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §6. Farmers' institutes (REPEALED)

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§6. Farmers' institutes (REPEALED)

Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 594,
§4 (RP ).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §7. Dairymen's conference (REPEALED)

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§7. Dairymen's conference (REPEALED)

Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 594,
§4 (RP ).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §8. Horticultural and dairy work

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§8. Horticultural and dairy work

The commissioner shall aid and assist societies and associations organized and established for the advancement of pomology, horticulture and dairy work, and societies devoted to the interests of the pure breeding of stock of all kinds.
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007Title 7 - §9. Cooperative agreements

Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 1: ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL RESOURCES (HEADING: PL 1979, c. 751, @19 (amd))

§9. Cooperative agreements

The commissioner may enter into agreements or cooperative arrangements with a state or federal agency or with any person, firm or corporation for the purpose of controlling diseases of plants and domestic animals, advertising and increasing the sale and consumption of Maine food products or disseminating information concerning the grade, quality or condition of same, and supplying inspection and grading services with respect to such food products. He may receive, administer and disburse any funds or contributions from such state or federal agency, person, firm or corporation, either independently or in conjunction with state funds allocated to said purpose. Funds so contributed shall not lapse at the end of any fiscal year but shall be carried forward to be used for the purpose originally intended. [1973, c. 44 (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 44,
§ (AMD).
The Revisor's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpretation of Maine law to the public. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Office of the Revisor of Statutes
7 State House Station
State House Room 108
Augusta, Maine 04333-0007

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