USA Statutes : maine
Title : Title 03. LEGISLATURE
Chapter : Chapter 07. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Title 3 - §161. Legislative Council

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§161. Legislative Council

There is established a Legislative Council to consist of 10 members, 5 of whom shall be members of the Senate and 5 of whom shall be members of the House of Representatives. They shall be the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Floor Leaders and Assistants of the 2 major parties. Membership on the Legislative Council shall be by virtue of holding the above offices, and shall be during the term of the Legislature in which such offices are held. The Legislative Council shall elect a chairman from within its own membership. [1973, c. 590, § 3 (rpr).] div>
The Legislative Council shall exercise such powers and duties as may be delegated by law or by rule of the Legislature. Any action by the Legislative Council shall require the affirmative votes of a majority of the members. [1973, c. 590, § 3 (rpr).] div>
The Legislative Council shall meet at least once monthly when the Legislature is not in session and at such other times as the membership or the chairman deems necessary. [1979, c. 127, § 5 (rpr).]

Section History:
PL 1965,
Ch. 425,
§2-B (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§3 (RPR).
PL 1979,
Ch. 127,
§5 (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 Title 3 - §162-A. Salaries subject to adjustment by Legislative Council

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§162-A. Salaries subject to adjustment by Legislative Council

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. [1993, c. 6, Pt. J, §1 (amd).] div>
The salary ranges shall be those established by the Legislative Council for legislative staff. No other state salary may be paid to these officials. [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:
p align="center">Secretary of the Senate; and p align="center">Clerk of the House of Representatives. [1987, c. 349, Pt. K, §1 (rpr).]

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


3. Range 86. [1983, c. 862, §4 (rp).]


4. Range 88. [1983, c. 862, §4 (rp).]


5. Range 89. [1983, c. 862, §4 (rp).]


Section History:
PL 1981,
Ch. 702,
§X11 (NEW).
PL 1983,
Ch. 853,
§3-5 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 862,
§2-4 (AMD).
PL 1987,
Ch. 349,
§K1 (RPR).
PL 1987,
Ch. 769,
§A2 (AMD).
PL 1993,
Ch. 6,
§J1 (AMD).
PL 1993,
Ch. 707,
§FF1 (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 Title 3 - §162-B. Salaries of constitutional officers
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§162-B. Salaries of constitutional officers

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. [1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (amd).] div>
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. [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 [1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (amd).]




B. Treasurer of State. [1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (amd).]

[1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); 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. [1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); 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. [1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§7,22 (amd); c. 596, Pt. C, §8 (amd); c. 600, Pt. B, §§9, 10 (amd); c. 878, Pt. D, §§14, 15 (amd).]


Section History:
PL 1983,
Ch. 862,
§5,6 (NEW).
PL 1989,
Ch. 501,
§O7,22 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 596,
§C8 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 824,
§B13,14 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §162. Authority

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§162. Authority

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

1. Legislative budgets. To prepare and approve all legislative budgets; [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; [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. [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; [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; [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 he may be lawfully interrogated, it shall be 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 such court or a refusal to testify therein. Each witness, other than a state officer or employee, shall receive for his attendance the fees and mileage provided for witnesses in civil cases in courts of record, which shall be audited and paid upon the presentation of proper vouchers sworn to by such witness and approved by the chairman of the council; [1973, c. 590, §4 (rpr).]


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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §1 (amd).]


6. Appointment of directors and officers. To appoint an Executive Director of the Legislative Council, a State Law Librarian and such other office directors as the council deems necessary. Each director shall be chosen without reference to party affiliations and solely on the grounds of fitness to perform the duties of his office; each to be appointed for a term of 3 years from the date of his appointment. Reappointment shall be based on performance in the office and shall be considered in accordance with policies and procedures established by the Legislative Council; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §2 (amd).]


6-A. Transition. Any person serving as Legislative Administrative Director, Director or Assistant Director of Legislative Research, Legislative Finance Officer or Assistant Legislative Finance Officer or Director or Assistant Director of Legislative Assistants, on September 19, 1985 may continue to so serve until the expiration of the term for which that person was appointed, unless that person resigns or vacates office before September 19, 1985; [RR 1997, c. 2, §4 (cor).]


7. Legislative agency operating policy. To establish operating policies for each legislative agency and office; [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; [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; [1991, c. 1 (new).]


9. [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; [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; [1973, c. 590, §4 (rpr).]


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; [2001, c. 358, Pt. E, §1 (amd).]


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


14. Council procedures. To establish published rules of procedure for the conduct of the business of the council; [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; [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; [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; [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; [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 [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. [1997, c. 43, §3 (new).]


Section History:
P&SL 1973,
Ch. 220,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§4 (RPR).
PL 1975,
Ch. 657,
§ (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§3-5 (AMD).
PL 1979,
Ch. 541,
§A7,A8 (AMD).
PL 1981,
Ch. 702,
§R (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 584,
§ (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 824,
§V (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B1-3 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 410,
§1-4 (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 1,
§ (AMD).
PL 1991,
Ch. 622,
§L1-3 (AMD).
PL 1993,
Ch. 415,
§J1 (AMD).
PL 1995,
Ch. 37,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1997,
Ch. 24,
§FF1,2 (AMD).
PL 1997,
Ch. 43,
§1-3 (AMD).
PL 1997,
Ch. 671,
§1 (AMD).
RR 1997,
Ch. 2,
§4 (COR).
PL 1999,
Ch. 1,
§2 (AMD).
PL 2001,
Ch. 358,
§E1 (AMD).
PL 2001,
Ch. 468,
§1 (AMD).
PL 2001,
Ch. 702,
§1 (AMD).
PL 2005,
Ch. 12,
§LL1 (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 Title 3 - §163-A. Legislative staff services

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§163-A. Legislative staff services

Legislative staff shall provide the following services under the direction of the Executive Director: [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]

1. Bill drafting. To furnish to the members of the Legislature the assistance of expert draftsman qualified to aid the Legislature in the preparation of bills for introduction into the Legislature; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


2-A. Engrossing. To engross all bills passed by the Legislature; [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 shall include all Acts and resolves which the Legislature has adopted during the session and which 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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


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; [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 shall 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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


6. Continuing revision. After each session of the Legislature, to prepare a report inserting in their proper places in the Revised Statutes public laws enacted since the last revision of the statutes and, after each subsequent session of the Legislature, to prepare a report supplementing the report so that those reports and supplements shall form the basis of the next revision of the statutes; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


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 on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, the Joint Standing Committee on Audit and Program Review and other legislative agencies; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


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; [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; [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 on Appropriations and Financial Affairs of the Legislature 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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


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; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, §5 (new).]


12. Statement of costs. 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 shall be made within the limits of information provided to the office designated by the Legislative Council as having responsibility for financial analysis. The statements shall be furnished to the appropriate committee for the information of its members and for inclusion in bills which receive an ought to pass report when reported by the committee. A statement shall not be necessary for any bill which has no cost to municipalities or counties; and [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


13. Other duties. To undertake such other duties as are assigned by the Executive Director. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 5 (new).]


Section History:
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B5 (NEW).
PL 1987,
Ch. 816,
§KK2 (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 Title 3 - §163. Executive Director of the Legislative Council; duties
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§163. Executive Director of the Legislative Council; duties

The duties of the Executive Director of the Legislative Council are: [2003, c. 673, Pt. QQQ, §1 (amd).]

1. Executive officers. To act as executive officer of the Legislature when it is not in session and unless the Legislature otherwise orders, the Executive Director shall, with the cooperation of the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives have custody of all legislative property and material, arrange for necessary supplies and equipment through the State Bureau of Purchases, arrange for necessary services, make all arrangements for incoming sessions of the Legislature, have general oversight of chambers and rooms occupied by the Legislature and permit state departments to use legislative property. The Executive Director may sell, in accordance with procedures established by the Legislative Council, unneeded legislative equipment and materials and, with the approval of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, dispose of obsolete or unusable equipment and materials through the Bureau of General Services' surplus property program. Proceeds from the sale of unneeded equipment and materials must be credited to the legislative account. The Executive Director has the authority to enter into contracts authorized by the Legislative Council and shall approve accounts and vouchers for payment. A perpetual inventory of all legislative property must be maintained under the supervision of the Legislative Council and an accounting of the inventory must be made to the Legislature upon its request. [2003, c. 673, Pt. QQQ, §2 (amd).]


2. Supervision. To assign, direct and supervise, subject to the control of the council, the activities of the legislative staff offices. The Executive Director shall have no supervisory authority with respect to any persons employed pursuant to chapter 1 or section 168 of this title; [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 4 (amd).]


2-A. Appointment of legislative staff. To appoint, upon recommendation of the appropriate office director and subject to the approval of the Legislative Council, qualified persons to legislative staff positions based solely on their ability to perform their duties and without regard to party affiliation. The general duties and compensation of these positions shall be established under the direction of the council and in accordance with organizational and performance objectives established by the council. These legislative staff positions shall be unclassified and not subject to the civil service law. [1985, c. 785, Pt. B, § 4 (amd).]


3. Vehicle for requests. To act as a vehicle through which the several agencies, departments and offices of the Legislature may report to the council their budget requests, personnel and supply requirements and to assist the council in the orderly disposition of these requests. [1973, c. 590, § 5 (rpr).]


4. Policy implementation. To be responsible for implementing policy resulting from decisions of the council. [1973, c. 590, § 5 (rpr).]


5. Reports. To prepare such reports as are required of the council and maintain minutes of the regular meetings of the council. [1983, c. 590, § 5 (rpr).]


6. Staff assistants. [1983, c. 2, § 3 (rp).]


7. Other duties. To undertake such other duties as are assigned by the council. [1973, c. 590, § 5 (rpr).] Revision: subsections 1-4 should end ";" subsection 5 should end "; and"


Section History:
PL 1965,
Ch. 341,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1965,
Ch. 412,
§4 (AMD).
PL 1965,
Ch. 425,
§2-D (AMD).
PL 1965,
Ch. 465,
§ (AMD).
PL 1967,
Ch. 357,
§ (AMD).
PL 1967,
Ch. 476,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1969,
Ch. 8,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1969,
Ch. 504,
§2,3 (AMD).
PL 1969,
Ch. 527,
§ (AMD).
PL 1971,
Ch. 298,
§ (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 14,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§5 (RPR).
PL 1973,
Ch. 625,
§7 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 788,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§2,3 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B4 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 785,
§B4 (AMD).
PL 1989,
Ch. 410,
§5 (AMD).
PL 2003,
Ch. 673,
§QQQ1,2 (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 Title 3 - §164. Director of Legislative Research; functions and duties (REPEALED)
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§164. Director of Legislative Research; functions and duties (REPEALED)



Section History:
PL 1969,
Ch. 8,
§1 (AMD).
PL 1971,
Ch. 480,
§4 (AMD).
P&SL 1973,
Ch. 220,
§4 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 46,
§ (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§6,7 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 788,
§4 (AMD).
PL 1979,
Ch. 396,
§7 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§4 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B6 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §165. Joint committees, authority

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§165. Joint committees, authority

The Legislature may by rule establish such joint standing committees and joint select committees as it deems necessary. Such committees shall have the authority, both when the Legislature is in session and when it is not in session: [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]

1. Collect information. To collect information concerning the government and general welfare of the State as related to assignments received from the council; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


2. Information and reports provided. To assist the Legislature in the proper performance of its constitutional functions by providing its members with impartial and accurate information and reports concerning the legislative problems which are assigned by the Legislative Council which information may be obtained by independent studies or by cooperation with and information from similar agencies in other states as to the practice of other states in dealing with similar problems; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


3. Quorum. A majority of the members of a committee shall constitute a quorum, and a majority thereof shall have the authority to act in any matter falling within the jurisdiction of the committee. A committee may hold either public or private hearings and may hold executive sessions, excluding all except members of the committee; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


4. State department to furnish information. Each state department shall furnish to a committee such documents, material or information as may be requested by a committee; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


5. Minutes. A committee shall keep minutes of matters considered and votes taken at its meetings and shall make reports to the Legislature on all matters which come before the committee, the actions taken thereon and the progress made in relation thereto; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


6. Reports to Legislature and public. Reports of a committee may be made from time to time to members of the Legislature and to the public; [1973, c. 590, § 8 (new).]


7. Other subpoenas, etc. When the duties assigned to a committee so require, the Legislature may grant to it the power 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. When the Legislature grants this power to a joint standing committee or joint select committee, such committee shall function as an investigating committee and shall be subject to the provisions of chapter 21. No appropriation or allocation may be made for a specific study unless the Legislative Council has first approved a budget adopted by the joint standing committee which is to conduct the study. No appropriation or allocation may be made for the operation of any joint select committee unless the Legislative Council has first approved a budget adopted by the joint select committee. 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 he may be lawfully interrogated, it shall be 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 such court or a refusal to testify therein. Each witness, other than a state officer or employee, who appears before a committee by its order or subpoena shall receive for his attendance the fees and mileage provided for witnesses in civil cases in courts of record, which shall be audited and paid upon the presentation of proper vouchers sworn to by such witness and approved by the chairman of the committee; [1985, c. 377, § 1 (amd).]


8. [1975, c. 750, § 2 (rp).]


Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§8 (NEW).
PL 1975,
Ch. 593,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 623,
§3 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 750,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§6 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 377,
§1 (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 Title 3 - §166. Director of Legislative Assistants (REPEALED)

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§166. Director of Legislative Assistants (REPEALED)



Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§9 (NEW).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§7 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§5 (RPR).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B7 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §167. Legislative Finance Officer; duties (REPEALED)

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§167. Legislative Finance Officer; duties (REPEALED)



Section History:
P&SL 1973,
Ch. 220,
§5 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§10 (NEW).
PL 1979,
Ch. 406,
§ (AMD).
PL 1979,
Ch. 541,
§A9 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§6 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B8 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §168-A. Legislative Youth Advisory Council

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§168-A. Legislative Youth Advisory Council

There is established the Legislative Youth Advisory Council, referred to in this section as the "council." [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]

1. Duties. The council shall perform the following duties:



A. Advise the Legislature, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives on proposed and pending legislation, state budget expenditures and policy matters related to youth; [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]




B. Advise the joint standing committees of the Legislature and study commissions, committees and task forces regarding issues related to youth; [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]




C. Conduct periodic seminars for its members regarding leadership, government and the Legislature; [2003, c. 20, Pt. F, §2 (amd).]




D. Meet at least 3 times but not more than 6 times per year, including not more than 2 public hearings on issues of importance to youth; and [2003, c. 20, Pt. F, §2 (amd).]




E. Report annually to the Legislature on its activities by February 15th of each year. The council may submit legislation to the Legislature to implement its recommendations. [2003, c. 20, Pt. F, §2 (amd).]

[2003, c. 20, Pt. F, §2 (amd).]


2. Jurisdiction. The council shall examine issues of importance to youth, including, but not limited to, education, employment, strategies to increase youth participation in municipal government and State Government, safe environments for youth, substance abuse, emotional and physical health, foster care, poverty, homelessness and youth access to services on municipal and statewide bases. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


3. Membership. The council consists of 22 voting members and 5 nonvoting members who are Maine residents in accordance with this subsection. In appointing members, the appointing authorities shall consider geographic distribution and shall appoint at least one member from each of the 3 service regions of the Department of Health and Human Services. Members shall serve for terms of 2 years and, if eligible, may be reappointed for subsequent 2-year terms, except that the appointing authorities shall appoint 12 of the members first appointed to the council to terms of one year.



A. The President of the Senate shall appoint 11 members as follows:

(1) Six youths who are students in secondary schools or who are enrolled in programs that lead to a secondary school diploma or certificate of attendance or a general equivalency diploma;


(2) One youth who is enrolled in an equivalent instruction program under Title 20-A, chapter 211, subchapter 1-A;


(3) Two students at postsecondary educational institutions located in the State; and


(4) Two members of the Senate whose terms coincide with the term of office in the Senate.
[2003, c. 481, §1 (amd).]




B. The Speaker of the House shall appoint 11 members as follows:

(1) Six youths who are students in secondary schools or who are enrolled in programs that lead to a secondary school diploma or certificate of attendance or a general equivalency diploma;


(2) One youth who is enrolled in an equivalent instruction program under Title 20-A, chapter 211, subchapter 1-A;


(3) Two students at postsecondary educational institutions located within the State; and


(4) Two members of the House of Representatives whose terms coincide with their terms of office in the House of Representatives.
[2003, c. 481, §1 (amd).]




C. The members of the Children's Cabinet, established pursuant to Title 5, section 19131, serve ex officio and may not vote. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]

[2003, c. 481, §1 (amd); c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (rev).]


4. Chairs. There is a legislative chair and a youth chair of the council. The legislative chair alternates every 2 years between the first-appointed member of the House of Representatives and the first-appointed member of the Senate, beginning in 2003 with the first-appointed member of the House of Representatives serving as the legislative chair for the 121st Legislature. The members shall elect one of their youth members to serve as the youth chair for a term of one year. [2003, c. 481, §2 (rpr).]


5. Cooperation with Department of Education. The council shall work cooperatively with the Department of Education on the integration of council experience into the learning results standards in student service and career preparation. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


6. Priorities. The council shall set priorities and shall determine the function of subcommittees, standards of conduct, process, procedures and the use of technology to convene meetings. Council members shall review and consider the procedures and rules used by the Legislature as they may be appropriate for use as models for the council. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


7. Communication. The council may provide testimony on legislation pending before the Legislature. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


8. Compensation. Members of the council who are Legislators are entitled to the legislative per diem and to reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in order to serve on the council as provided in Title 5, section 12004-I, subsection 54-C. All other members who are not otherwise reimbursed for their service on the council are entitled to compensation for reasonable expenses incurred in order to serve on the council as provided in Title 5, section 12004-I, subsection 54-C. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


9. Freedom of access. Meetings of the council are public meetings and all records of the council are public records as defined by Title 1, section 402, subsection 3. [2001, c. 439, Pt. PPPP, §1 (new); §4 (aff).]


10. Staff. The Legislative Council shall provide staff assistance to the council from within its existing budgeted resources or from any grants received by the Legislative Council for that purpose. The staff assigned by the Legislative Council shall draft all legislation submitted to the Legislature by the council. Legislative Council staffing may be curtailed during periods when the Legislature is in regular or special session. [2005, c. 414, §1 (amd).]


11. Funding. The Legislative Council may seek outside funds to fund costs of the council. Contributions to support the work of the youth council may not be accepted from any party having a pecuniary or other vested interest in the outcome of the matters being studied or who would in any way compromise the work of the council. Any person, other than a state agency, desiring to make a financial or in-kind contribution must certify to the Legislative Council or its designee in the manner prescribed by the Legislative Council that the person has no pecuniary or other vested interest in the outcome of the work of the council. All contributions are subject to approval by the Legislative Council or its designee. The Executive Director of the Legislative Council administers any funds received by the youth council. The executive director shall notify the chairs of the youth council of the status of the funding on or before December 1st annually and what funding is available for the immediately following calendar year. [2005, c. 414, §2 (new).]


Section History:
PL 2001,
Ch. 439,
§PPPP1 (NEW).
PL 2001,
Ch. 439,
§PPPP4 (AFF).
PL 2003,
Ch. 20,
§F2,3 (AMD).
PL 2003,
Ch. 481,
§1,2 (AMD).
PL 2003,
Ch. 689,
§B6 (REV).
PL 2005,
Ch. 414,
§1,2 (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 Title 3 - §168. Staff assistants to legislative leadership

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§168. Staff assistants to legislative leadership

The President of the Senate, the Majority and Minority Floor Leaders of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Majority and Minority Floor Leaders of the House of Representatives shall each have the authority to appoint, at his discretion, a personal staff assistant, or more than one assistant if their aggregate salary does not exceed that of the single personal staff assistant, when the Legislature is in session and at such other times as might be necessary, with the approval of the Legislative Council. [1983, c. 2, Pt. H (amd).]

Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§11 (NEW).
PL 1975,
Ch. 623,
§3-A (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§8 (AMD).
PL 1977,
Ch. 564,
§11-A (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 32,
§H (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 Title 3 - §169. Constituent Service Officer; functions and duties (REPEALED)
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§169. Constituent Service Officer; functions and duties (REPEALED)



Section History:
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§12 (NEW).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B9 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §170-A. Use of legislative equipment and resources

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§170-A. Use of legislative equipment and resources

Legislative employees are prohibited from at any time using the computer system, telephones, copying machines and other legislative equipment for work related to campaigns. [1995, c. 100, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1995,
Ch. 100,
§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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §170. Partisan employees; restricted activities

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

§170. Partisan employees; restricted activities

Partisan legislative employees who assume active roles in campaigns shall either limit their activities to evenings and weekends or take leave to pursue these activities if they occur during the Legislature's regular business day, which is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This includes fund raising for campaign efforts as well as other activities that are directly related to election or reelection efforts. [1995, c. 100, §1 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1995,
Ch. 100,
§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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §171. Declaration of policy
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 2: LAW AND LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY

§171. Declaration of policy

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. [1971, c. 480, §1 (new)]

Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 480,
§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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §172-A. State Law Library; administration

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 2: LAW AND LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY

§172-A. State Law Library; administration

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. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 10 (new).]

Section History:
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B10 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §172. State Law Librarian (REPEALED)

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 2: LAW AND LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY

§172. State Law Librarian (REPEALED)



Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 480,
§1 (NEW).
P&SL 1973,
Ch. 220,
§6 (AMD).
PL 1973,
Ch. 590,
§13 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§9 (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 04333-0007 Title 3 - §173. State Law Library; services
Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 2: LAW AND LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY

§173. State Law Library; services

The State Law Library shall provide the following services: [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (amd).]

1. Legislative reference service. Provide a comprehensive reference service on legislative problems for all members of the Legislature and its committees, equally and impartially, and to the limits of its staff and facilities. Such reference services shall be available also to public officials and to citizens generally. Collect, index and make available in the most suitable form information relative to governmental subjects which will aid the Legislature, other public officials and citizens to perform their duties in an enlightened manner. [1971, c. 480, § 1 (new).]


2. Law library. Provide a law library for the use of all agencies of State Government, the judiciary, attorneys and citizens of Maine. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (amd).]


3. Distribution, sale and exchange of law books. Copies of the Revised Statutes, supplements thereto and session laws shall be delivered by the printer to the State Law Librarian for distribution and sale in accordance with prices, policies and procedures established by the Legislative Council. All proceeds from such sales shall be deposited to the credit of the General Fund.



A. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (rp).]
Copies shall be sent, on an exchange basis, to the Library of Congress, secretary of the Maine State Bar Association, the Supreme Court Library of Canada and to each state or territorial library in the United States.
One copy of the laws passed by each session of the Legislature shall be given to each Member thereof, the Secretary of the Senate, the Assistant Secretary of the Senate, the Clerk of the House and the Assistant Clerk of the House.

Revision note: Paragraph A repealed, but these 2 paragraphs are blocked paragraphs of A. (see PL1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11).


B. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (rp).]




C. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (rp).]

The State Law Librarian may, in his discretion, sell surplus copies of volumes entrusted to him or use them for exchange purposes to increase the usefulness of the library. Proceeds from all sales shall be deposited to the credit of the General Fund. [1985, c. 501, Pt. B, § 11 (amd).]


Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 480,
§1 (NEW).
P&SL 1975,
Ch. 147,
§H1 (AMD).
PL 1975,
Ch. 771,
§12-14 (AMD).
PL 1977,
Ch. 506,
§1-3 (AMD).
PL 1981,
Ch. 48,
§2 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B11 (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 Title 3 - §174. Administrative provisions (REPEALED)

Title 3: LEGISLATURE
Chapter 7: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Subchapter 2: LAW AND LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY

§174. Administrative provisions (REPEALED)



Section History:
PL 1971,
Ch. 480,
§1 (NEW).
PL 1975,
Ch. 770,
§10 (RPR).
PL 1979,
Ch. 396,
§8 (AMD).
PL 1983,
Ch. 2,
§7 (AMD).
PL 1985,
Ch. 501,
§B12 (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 04333-0007