122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Clarify An Easement across State Park Land
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2983
President Edmonds of Cumberland
This bill would clarify that the owners of certain property adjacent to Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park do have an easement across park property in order to access their property.
SUMMARY
LR 2759
An Act To Increase the Number of Members on the Board of Pesticides Control
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would add to the membership of the Board of Pesticide Control a person who represents a statewide association for structural pest management operators and a 3rd member to represent the public who represents a  statewide business association.
SUMMARY
LR 3035
An Act To Allow the Use of Fallen Apples in Apple Cider
Representative Twomey of Biddeford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow those apple orchards that do not have cows on the premises to use fallen apples in apple cider
SUMMARY
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Protect Volunteer-earned Funds of the Maine Wildlife Park
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2898
Representative Austin of Gray
This bill would ensure that volunteer-earned funds of the Maine Wildlife Park could not be used to reduce overall state funding of the park.
SUMMARY
LR 2748
An Act To Ensure the Continued Ability of the Maine Economic Growth Council To Produce the Measures of the Growth Report
Senator Bromley of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would appropriate $10,000 to the Maine Economic Growth Council in order that it may continue to produce the Measures of  Growth report.
SUMMARY
Page 1 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2641
An Act To Provide Supplemental Funding for Mileage Reimbursement for Volunteers for the Meals on Wheels Programs
Representative Campbell of Newfield
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill provides supplemental funding for mileage reimbursement for volunteers for the meals on wheels program.  This funding is needed as soon as possible due to the substantial increase in the price of gasoline
SUMMARY
LR 2985
An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue To Create a Block Grant Program To Promote Economic and Cultural Development
Representative Cummings of Portland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would authorize a General Fund bond issue to authorize the Department of Economic and Cultural Development to create a block grant program to promote economic and cultural development.
SUMMARY
LR 2718
An Act To Assist the Cities of Biddeford and Saco
Representative Daigle of Arundel
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide an appropriation of up to $8,000,000 to help the cities of Biddeford and Saco purchase the Maine Energy Recovery Company incinerator.  The amount is dependent upon the amount approved at local referendum in November 2005.
SUMMARY
LR 2906
An Act To Provide Funding for the Construction of a Regional Career Center
Senator Diamond of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide funding for the construction of a regional career center in Casco.  This center would provide career training and services, including technical training, job placement and transitional services, to teens and adults who are 20 years of age and younger.
SUMMARY
LR 2615
An Act To Protect Military Families
Representative Fischer of Presque Isle
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill will provide a $250,000 life insurance policy free to members of the Maine Army National Guard who go into combat zones.
SUMMARY
Page 2 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2576
An Act To Increase Supervision of Red Tide on the Maine Coast
Representative Perry, A of Calais
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would appropriate funding to the Water Quality Division in the Department of Marine Resources to allow the division to hire more seasonal interns to test for red tide.
SUMMARY
LR 2617
An Act To Assist Visually Impaired Persons and Persons with Disabilities in Obtaining Information Regarding Current Events
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish an accessible electronic information service for eligible blind and disabled persons.  The service would convert text-based information, including newspapers, into synthetic speech or Braille suitable for statewide distribution with modern telecommunications technology.
SUMMARY
LR 2753
An Act To Recapitalize the Maine Downtown Center
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would appropriate funds to recapitalize the Maine Downtown Center.
SUMMARY
LR 2578
An Act To Provide Funding for Tribal Economic Development for the Penobscot Indian Nation and Other Federally Recognized Tribes
Representative Sockalexis of Penobscot Nation
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill appropriates funds for the Department of Economic and Community Development to provide financial assistance to the Penobscot Indian Nation and other federally recognized tribes for economic development.  These funds are to assist the nation and tribes with funds for feasibility studies, implementation of economic projects, matching funds and economic development planning activities.
SUMMARY
Page 3 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2582
An Act To Establish a Penobscot Language Preservation Fund in the Department of Education
Representative Sockalexis of Penobscot Nation
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill establishes the Penobscot Language Preservation Fund and appropriates funds for the Department of Education to provide financial assistance to the Penobscot Indian Nation to maintain and preserve the Penobscot language.  The language program must be maintained and managed under the auspices of the tribal cultural and historic preservation department.  These funds may also be used to match other funding sources as necessary.
SUMMARY
LR 2905
An Act To Make Minor Technical Changes to Maine's Spending Growth Benchmarks
Representative Woodbury of Yarmouth
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would make technical changes to the spending growth limits enacted in Public Law 2005, chapter 2 correcting certain errors and omissions in the original language.
SUMMARY
Banking and Insurance
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Protect Consumers from Credit Card and Debit Card Holds
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2627
Representative Ash of Belfast
This bill would prohibit merchants from placing a hold on a credit or debit card for an amount more than is actually  spent.  Merchants and credit and debit card companies would have one hour from the actual sale to reduce the temporary hold amount to no more than the actual mount of the sale rounded to the nearest dollar.
SUMMARY
LR 2627
An Act To Protect Consumers from Credit Card and Debit Card Holds
Representative Ash of Belfast
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit merchants from placing a hold on a credit or debit card for an amount more than is actually  spent.  Merchants and credit and debit card companies would have one hour from the actual sale to reduce the temporary hold amount to no more than the actual mount of the sale rounded to the nearest dollar.
SUMMARY
Page 4 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Banking and Insurance
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2927
An Act To Increase Agent Participation for Insurance Products
Representative Bryant, M of Windham
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide a broader agent base for health insurance products and increase agent participation
SUMMARY
LR 2457
An Act To Require Insurance Companies To Notify the Secretary of State when a Motor Vehicle Has Been Insured
Senator Cowger of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
Current law requires an insurance company to notify the Bureau of Motor Vehicles when a motor vehicle's insurance has expired.  The insurance company does not have to notify the bureau when a motor vehicle has been insured.  This bill would require an insurance company to notify the      
Bureau of Motor Vehicles when a motor vehicle has been insured.
SUMMARY
LR 2817
An Act To Establish Requirements and Standards for Health Savings Accounts for Small Businesses
Representative Cummings of Portland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish requirements and standards for health savings accounts in Maine in order to make them a viable option for small business owners and employees.
SUMMARY
LR 2669
An Act To Increase Accessibility to Health Insurance
Representative Glynn of South Portland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would allow an insurance company to issue a health insurance policy to a person who is not a citizen of the United States.
SUMMARY
LR 2971
An Act To Accommodate Victims of Identity Theft
Representative Grose of Woolwich
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill, which is modelled on legislation in other states, would require that, for victims of identity theft, credit bureaus remove erroneous information from a victim's credit report.
SUMMARY
Page 5 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Banking and Insurance
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2809
An Act To Protect Health Insurance Consumers
Senator Martin of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prevent insurance carriers, 3rd-party administrators and employee benefit excess loss carriers from passing the savings offset payment on to consumers.
SUMMARY
LR 2627
An Act To Protect Consumers from Credit Card and Debit Card Holds
Senator Nutting, J of Androscoggin
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit merchants from placing a hold on a credit or debit card for an amount more than is actually  spent.  Merchants and credit and debit card companies would have one hour from the actual sale to reduce the temporary hold amount to no more than the actual mount of the sale rounded to the nearest dollar.
SUMMARY
LR 2627
An Act To Protect Consumers from Credit Card and Debit Card Holds
Senator Nutting, J of Androscoggin
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit merchants from placing a hold on a credit or debit card for an amount more than is actually  spent.  Merchants and credit and debit card companies would have one hour from the actual sale to reduce the temporary hold amount to no more than the actual mount of the sale rounded to the nearest dollar.
SUMMARY
LR 2813
An Act To Create a Self-insurance Pool for Land Crossing State-owned Railroad Tracks
Representative Piotti of Unity
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create a state-run self-insurance pool to cover private landowners who are required to buy insurance for state-owned railroad tracks.
SUMMARY
LR 2756
An Act to Protect Retirement Funds
Representative Smith, W of Van Buren
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would exempt from creditors all retirement funds, including IRAs.
SUMMARY
Page 6 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Banking and Insurance
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2655
An Act To Amend the Maine Consumer Credit Code as It Relates to Finance Charges for Loans on Open-end Credit
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill exempts home equity lines of credit accessed by a credit card from the provision of law that prohibits the imposition of a finance charge on purchases made during a billing cycle if they are paid for not later than 25 days after the closing date of that billing cycle.
SUMMARY
LR 2693
An Act To Amend the Maine Insurance Guaranty Association Act
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would permit the Workers' Compensation Board to audit workers' compensation claims administered by the Maine Insurance Guaranty Association.  Under current law, the Workers' Compensation Board does not have that  authority.  The Maine Insurance Guaranty Association administers claims of insolvent carriers made by Maine  residents formerly insured by an insolvent carrier.
SUMMARY
LR 2814
An Act To Access Federal Money for Health Insurance Reform
Representative Tardy of Newport
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would require the State to apply for federal money that is being made available to states by Congress.
SUMMARY
Business and Economic Development
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Maintain Standards for the Plumbing Profession
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2850
President Edmonds of Cumberland
This bill would create equity in the number of hours required for on-the-job training for a plumbing journeyman's license.
SUMMARY
Page 7 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Business and Economic Development
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2854
An Act To Maintain Standards for Consumers of Mechanical Services
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish the Heating, Cooling and Air Distribution Board within the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation and establish the powers and duties of the board, including the promulgation of rules and standards governing the installation, alteration and repair of heating, cooling and air distribution equipment and enforcement of those rules and standards.  The bill would also create a licensing system for master, journeyman and apprentice heating, cooling and air distribution technicians.
SUMMARY
LR 2960
An Act To Implement Model Timeshare Foreclosure Procedures
Senator Hobbins of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would create a nonjudicial timeshare foreclosure procedure based on model national legislation.
SUMMARY
LR 2707
An Act To Exempt Platform Lifts from the Annual Elevator Inspection
Representative Jacobsen of Waterboro
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would exempt platform lifts from the annual elevator inspection.
SUMMARY
LR 2465
An Act To Protect Drivers' Privacy by Clarifying Ownership  of Data Recorded by Event Data Recorders
Representative Pelletier-Simpson of Auburn
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify that a motor vehicle owner owns the data recorded by an event data reorder installed in the motor vehicle.  Insurance companies would not be allowed access.  Law enforcement could obtain access only with a court order or subpoena.
SUMMARY
LR 2852
An Act To Clarify the Accountability of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
Representative Perry, A of Calais
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify the accountability of advanced-practice registered nurses by defining certain terms that apply to advanced-practice registered nursing.
SUMMARY
Page 8 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Business and Economic Development
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2900
An Act To Implement  Certain Recommendations of the Washington County Economic Development Task Force
Senator Raye of Washington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would implement certain recommendations of the Washington County Economic Development Task Force
SUMMARY
LR 2604
An Act To Establish a Development Authority for Brunswick Naval Air Station
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill establishes a development authority for the Brunswick Naval Air Station.
SUMMARY
LR 2605
An Act To Provide Emergency Regional Economic Development Assistance for Brunswick Naval Air Station
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill strikes provisions in the Pine Tree Development Zone laws pertaining to limitations to labor market areas with a greater than 5% loss of population within 3 years and adds a provision allowing other limitations to be named for certain properties within commercial, industrial or military sites with a greater than 25% loss of employed workers over a 4-year period.
SUMMARY
LR 2704
An Act To Protect Small Payroll Processors
Representative Robinson of Raymond
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would provide for bonding through a state agency to small payroll processors who have not been able to access bonding through the marketplace.
SUMMARY
LR 2736
An Act To Require That Automobile Extended Service Warranties Purchased by Maine Citizens for Provide Arbitration in the State
Representative Sherman of Hodgdon
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require that an automobile extended warranty sold in this State must provide that arbitration regarding the warranty occur in the State of Maine.
SUMMARY
Page 9 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Criminal Justice
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Require Mandatory Training for Law Enforcement Officers and Prosecutors Regarding Interaction with People with Developmental Disabilities, Including Autism Spectrum Disorders
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2503
Senator Bartlett of Cumberland
This bill requires mandatory training for law enforcement officers and prosecutors regarding citizens with developmental disabilities.
SUMMARY
LR 2676
An Act To Provide for the Issuance of a Bench Warrant upon Failure To Appear for a Hearing on Nonpayment of a
County Jail Reimbursement Fee
Representative Crosthwaite of Ellsworth
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide for the issuance of a bench warrant if a defendant does not appear for a hearing on a motion to enforce payment of a jail reimbursement fee.
SUMMARY
LR 2672
An Act To Allow Law Enforcement Agencies To Maintain Public Sex Offender Registry Websites
Representative Curley of Scarborough
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow any law enforcement agency, not just the Department of Public Safety, State Bureau of Identification, to maintain a public sex offender registry website.
SUMMARY
LR 2497
An Act To Establish and Classify Penalties for Multiple Driving License Suspensions
Senator Diamond of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill establishes and classifies penalties for multiple driving license suspensions.  It provides a graduated scale of periods of license revocation for drivers with multiple  suspensions and a graduated scale of jail time for drivers who are convicted of operating after suspension during these periods of license revocation.
SUMMARY
LR 2921
An Act Regarding Criminal History Record Checks
Representative Dunn of Bangor
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
The bill would direct the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules that ensure that incorrect information is not provided in response to a criminal record check request.
SUMMARY
Page 10 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Criminal Justice
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2691
An Act To Enhance Firefighter Safety
Representative Duplessie of Westbrook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require structures that use trusses in the floor or roof or parts of the floor or roof to display an emblem on the building signifying that construction and the materials used in the truss construction.
SUMMARY
LR 2549
An Act To Enhance the Laws Prohibiting Profiteering on Fuel
Representative Hogan of Old Orchard Beach
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would enhance the penalties for profiteering on fuel.
SUMMARY
LR 2565
An Act To Prevent Price Gouging
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill prevents price gouging.
SUMMARY
LR 2935
An Act To Deter Environmental Terrorism in the State
Senator Nutting, J of Androscoggin
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would enact measures designed to discourage environmental terrorism.
SUMMARY
LR 2904
An Act To Amend the Law Governing DNA Testing
Representative Paradis of Frenchville
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would shift the burden of proof to the State in cases where DNA samples prove that the convicted person is not the perpetrator of the crime.
SUMMARY
Page 11 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Criminal Justice
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2648
An Act To Inform and Protect the Public Regarding State Employees with Certain Criminal Records
Representative Smith, N of Monmouth
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill requires that any employee of the State of Maine who is in direct contact with the public and has been convicted of a sex offense or violent crime be required to have that record revealed to the public.  The public will have the option of requesting a different employee.
SUMMARY
LR 2914
An Act To Facilitate Inspections of Heating Appliances and Chimneys
Representative Thomas of Ripley
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow fire departments to provide inspections of installations of wood stoves and other heating appliances as well as chimneys without waiving liability.
SUMMARY
Education and Cultural Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act Relating to the Flanders Bay Community School District
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2926
Representative Bierman of Sorrento
SUMMARY
LR 2644
An Act Regarding Standardized Testing in Maine
Senator Brennan of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prevent the Department of Education from adopting standardized assessment testing indefinitely. This bill constitutes an emergency since the Commissioner of Education has decided to replace the State's education assessment with the SAT for high school juniors this spring.  Without this legislation, the Legislature will not be able to act on this decision which could put low-income students at risk of being disadvantaged in planning and applying for college.
SUMMARY
LR 2785
An Act To Prevent the Use of Nutritional Supplements by Maine Student Athletes
Senator Brennan of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit nonmedically necessary use of certain nutritional supplements by student athletes in  Maine schools in kindergarten to grade 12.
SUMMARY
Page 12 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Education and Cultural Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2870
An Act To Invest in the Future of Maine Citizens
Senator Brennan of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish resources to improve the health, well-being, education and economic security of Maine citizens by enhancing and expanding early education opportunities, after-school initiatives, physical education programs and access to higher education scholarships.
SUMMARY
LR 2473
An Act Concerning Members of School Administrative Districts' Finance Committees
Senator Bryant, B of Oxford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
Under this bill, the finance committee of a board of directors for a school administrative district is made up  of at a minimum 3 members.  Current law sets the membership at 3.
SUMMARY
LR 2867
An Act To Promote Youth Involvement in County and Local Government
Representative Cain of Orono
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would create an internship program that pairs college-aged students with county and local governments.   Students must have completed at least 2 years of college or just graduated from college, and must be Maine residents or out-of-state students attending college in Maine.  This internship program would be administered by the Margaret Chase Smith Center for Public Policy at the University of Maine
SUMMARY
LR 2804
An Act To Enable Local Adult Education Programs To Play a Greater Role in Helping Dislocated Workers
Representative Clark of Millinocket
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the State Department of Labor to ensure that representatives of the local adult education community are participants in the planning and execution of initiatives designed to assist dislocated workers.
SUMMARY
LR 2490
An Act To Provide State Funding for the Fingerprinting of School Personnel
Senator Courtney of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would require that the State pay for the fingerprinting of school personnel.
SUMMARY
Page 13 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Education and Cultural Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2835
An Act To Inform Parents of Students' Privacy Rights
Representative Farrington of Gorham
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require all public high schools to inform parents of students in those high schools of the parents rights under the Federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act, Section 9528, which deals with armed forces recruiter access to students.  High schools would be required to 
provide an "opt out" selection on the mandatory emergency cards sent to parents.
SUMMARY
LR 2657
An Act Regarding the Sharing of Costs in Certain School Districts
Senator Mayo of Sagadahoc
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would extend the transition adjustment for member municipalities within certain school administrative districts and community school districts that are eligible under the provisions of P&SL 2005, chapter 23, section 1.  That transition adjustment provision was created to shift  the contribution levels of certain member municipalities that were adversely impacted by changes to the school funding formula.
SUMMARY
LR 2577
An Act To Restore the Cost-sharing Agreement Established by
the Voters of School Administrative District No. 40
Representative Miller of Somerville
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill reestablishes the cost-sharing agreement established in 1992 at a referendum election by the voters of School Administrative District No.  40.  That cost-sharing formula apportions all the local share contributions to the school district on the basis of 50% of each town's valuation and 50% of each town's student population.  The bill also preserves the right of the voters of a school administrative district to maintain cost-sharing arrangements that are available under current law.
SUMMARY
LR 2881
An Act To Authorize Flexibility in School Attendance Requirements in Emergencies
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow local school boards to request variances from the Commissioner of Education to allow the boards to lengthen the school day and shorten the school week or to take other measures in the case of fuel shortages or other declared emergencies.
SUMMARY
Page 14 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Education and Cultural Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2628
An Act To Promote Economic Development by Enhancing Educational Opportunities
Senator Mitchell of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill provides for the continuation of the college transitions pilot projects that are in place in 7 adult education programs.  These projects assist persons to transition from job loss to community college by placing them in an adult education setting where they learn about getting back into a learning mode, explore college programs and are placed in an academic setting to improve skills and confidence/
SUMMARY
LR 2773
An Act To Save the Marine Trades Center and Strengthen Maine's Boatbuilding Workforce
Senator Raye of Washington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would enact measures to ensure the continued operation of the Marine Trades Center in Eastport and to strengthen the boatbuilding workforce in the State.
SUMMARY
LR 2777
An Act To Allow School Districts To Recover Certain Funds
Representative Rines of Wiscasset
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow school districts that receive tuition students to recover Essential Programs and Services targeted funds from the sending districts.
SUMMARY
LR 2899
An Act To Amend the Law Governing Warrant Funding for Education
Senator Schneider of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This resolve would have the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs review and amend the language concerning warrant funding to municipalities for education.
SUMMARY
LR 2670
An Act To Include Dental Screening with Other Preschool Testing for Maine's Children
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would add dental screenings to the hearing and vision screenings given to children before they start school.
SUMMARY
Page 15 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Education and Cultural Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2757
An Act To Clarify Provisions Governing Technical Education
Representative Thomas of Ripley
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would exempt certain Maine Community College System programs from certain driver education requirements as set forth in statute and related rules of the Department of Secretary of State.
SUMMARY
LR 2917
An Act Concerning Energy Conservation in Schools
Representative Tuttle of Sanford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would raise the allowable contract cost for improving school energy conservation and efficiency from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000.
SUMMARY
LR 2708
An Act Concerning the Implementation of Cuts in Child Development Services
Senator Weston of Waldo
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill requires the Legislature to review the implementation of cuts in Child Development Services proposed by the Department of Education and to make changes to the implementation.
SUMMARY
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
Resolve, To Ensure the Coordination and Effectiveness in the Provision of Outpatient and Medication Management Services under Maine's Noncategorical Waiver
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2896
Representative Brannigan of Portland
SUMMARY
LR 2629
An Act To Guarantee Access to Medically Necessary Medications during the Implementation of the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program
Senator Brennan of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill provides additional resources to the state  agencies and contractors and other agencies involved in providing outreach to people who previously obtained drugs through MaineCare, the low-cost prescription drug program or other prescription drug programs.  These resources will be used to help link those who are put at risk because they are unable to obtain medically necessary prescription drugs with those prescription drugs in a timely manner.
SUMMARY
Page 16 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2640
Resolve, Directing the Commissioner of Health and Human Services To Develop Strategies To Keep Senior Citizens Safe from Falls
Representative Campbell of Newfield
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill develops public education strategies to reduce falls among older adults; improves the awareness, education and training of health professionals and providers to include falls risk assessment and targeted interventions;  and intensifies services and promotes research to determine the most effective ways to prevent and treat falls.
SUMMARY
LR 2791
Resolve, To Appropriately Reimburse and Ensure the Availability of Personal Care Assistant Services
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would increase the pay rate for personal care assistants under the MaineCare program.
SUMMARY
LR 2991
An Act To Improve Retention, Quality and Benefits for Direct Care Health Workers
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill increases reimbursements for Medicaid providers sufficient to provide health coverage for direct care workers in long-term care settings.
SUMMARY
LR 2539
An Act To Streamline MaineCare Billing
Representative Fischer of Presque Isle
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the payor-of-last-resort policy by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to make payments to private insurers for services when MaineCare is the payor of only resort prior to filing a 
request for payment.
SUMMARY
LR 2990
An Act To Designate the Department of Health and Human Services as the Sole Entity Entitled To Use the 2-1-1 Telephone Number
Representative Gerzofsky of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish 211 as the single phone number to call to obtain information on all services provided by or  through the Department of Health and Human Services.
SUMMARY
Page 17 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2586
An Act To Amend the Law Regarding Smoking in Private Clubs
Representative Grose of Woolwich
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the law that allows smoking in private clubs if a majority of the members vote to allow smoking to change the requirement to a majority of those ballots received.
SUMMARY
LR 2832
An Act To Protect Children from the Onset of Autism
Representative Lerman of Augusta
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would protect children from the onset of autism by banning the use of thimerosol.
SUMMARY
LR 2468
An Act To Improve the MaineCare Program
Senator Mayo of Sagadahoc
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill seeks to create a process for carrying out the reform proposed by the Governor to the MaineCare Program.  The process needs to include input from the Legislature, providers and consumers.
SUMMARY
LR 2772
An Act To Strengthen and Improve Review Procedures in the Certificate of Need Program
Representative Miller of Somerville
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would propose further improvements to the certificate of need project review process.  These improvements arise from the deliberations of the Commission to Study Maine's Hospitals.  New procedures would include:  lower dollar thresholds for project review, new project reporting requirements, additional methods for determining community need, clarified roles for other state agencies used in the review process and the conduct of certificate of need hearings as adjudicatory proceedings using an impartial hearing officer and APA standards.
SUMMARY
LR 2742
An Act To Improve Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Services
Representative Millett of Waterford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would improve substance abuse rehabilitation services by creating a process to involve local communities in the licensing process.
SUMMARY
Page 18 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2910
An Act To Establish a Child Advocate Position in the Disability Rights Center
Senator Mitchell of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would create a position of child advocate in the Disability Rights Center.
SUMMARY
LR 3029
An Act To Maintain Prescription Drug Benefits for Seniors and People with Disabilities
Representative Pingree of North Haven
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to continue to provide the same level of pharmacy services to MaineCare members, members in the drugs for the elderly program and those in the AIDS Drug Assistance Program who are also eligible for the new Medicare Part D benefit at no greater cost than members pay for those services now.
SUMMARY
LR 2574
An Act To Allow the Department of Health and Human Services To Locate Parents Who Are Delinquent in Child Support Payments through Information Related to Cellular Telephones
Senator Plowman of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill allows the Department of Health and Human Services to locate parents who are delinquent in child support payments through information in the possession of wireless service providers.
SUMMARY
LR 2603
An Act To Enhance Health Care Safety
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill creates a Hospital Infections Disclosure Act to improve infection rates.
SUMMARY
LR 2750
An Act To Ensure Appropriate Reimbursement of Rising Energy Costs for Long-term Care Facilities
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to amend its principles of reimbursement for long-term care facilities to provide proper recognition of rapidly rising energy costs.
SUMMARY
Page 19 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2677
An Act To Conform the Certificate of Need Law to Industry Standards
Senator Rosen, R of Hancock
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would prohibit the State from disallowing reasonable construction contingency budgeting that is consistent with industry standards in a certificate of need application.
SUMMARY
LR 2967
An Act To Streamline Criteria for Municipal General Assistance for Heating and Utility Assistance
Representative Schatz of Blue Hill
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would streamline criteria for municipal general assistance for heating and utility assistance.
SUMMARY
LR 2630
An Act Permitting the Recycling of Unused Prescription Drugs
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish a prescription drug recycling program or repository for unused medications to be distributed to the needy.
SUMMARY
LR 2475
An Act To Clarify Prescription Drug Labels
Representative Thompson of China
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would require that pharmacies include on prescription bottle labels the name of the medication that was written on the doctor's prescription.  In this way, if the pharmacy fills the prescription with a generic drug,  the patient will be able to identify the medication and take the medication in accordance with the doctor's instructions.
SUMMARY
LR 2647
An Act To Clarify the Workplace Smoking Laws
Senator Turner of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the law regarding smoking in private clubs.
SUMMARY
Page 20 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Health and Human Services
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2609
An Act To Increase Wheelchair Van Services Reimbursement Rates
Representative Tuttle of Sanford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill increases the wheelchair reimbursement rate under MaineCare.
SUMMARY
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Improve Water Skiing Safety
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2722
Representative Fletcher of Winslow
This bill would permit the use of a rear-view wide-angle mirror on a boat while towing a person on water skis.
SUMMARY
LR 2679
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing All-terrain Vehicles
Senator Gagnon of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the law requiring express permission of a landowner in order for another person to operate an ATV on that landowner's land.  This bill would enact an exception to that requirement if a person has a deeded right of way to the land and that person is obligated to maintain the right of way.
SUMMARY
LR 2585
Resolve, To Direct the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife To Increase the Number of Moose Permits
Representative Jackson of Fort Kent
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would increase by 500 the number of moose permits available through the lottery.
SUMMARY
LR 2701
An Act To Control Alcohol in the Maine Woods
Representative Joy of Crystal
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill prohibits hunters from possessing alcohol while in possession of or in proximity to firearms.
SUMMARY
Page 21 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2569
An Act To Authorize the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries    
and Wildlife To Allow the Operation of Snowmobiles         
Registered outside the State at Special Events Occurring in
the State
Senator Martin of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill corrects an error that was made when Public Law 2005, chapter 457 removed the authority granted to the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife by Public Law 2005, chapter 1 to allow the operation of snowmobiles registered outside the State at special events occurring in the State.
SUMMARY
LR 2661
An Act To Enhance the Integrity of the Moose Lottery
Representative Moody of Manchester
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would require the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to have the moose hunting lottery process reviewed annually to ensure that it is applied fairly.
SUMMARY
LR 2774
An Act To Allow Smelt Dipping in Long Lake in Aroostook County
Representative Smith, W of Van Buren
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide for the continuation of smelt dipping after 2005 in Long Lake.
SUMMARY
LR 2614
An Act To Prevent the Introduction of Chronic Wasting Disease
Representative Watson of Bath
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
SUMMARY
LR 2624
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing the Archery Hunting Season
Representative Wheeler of Kittery
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow an expanded archery season for deer in areas that are closed to firearm hunting and also would allow the taking of 2 deer during the archery hunting season.
SUMMARY
Page 22 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Judiciary
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Allow the Display of POW-MIA Flags at Courthouses
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2878
Representative Bowles of Sanford
This bill would authorize the District Court, Superior Court or Supreme Judicial Court to display the POW-MIA flag at a courthouse whenever the flag of the United States is flown.
SUMMARY
LR 2464
 An Act To Ensure the Authority of "Do Not Resuscitate" Orders in Advance Health-care Directives
Senator Bryant, B of Oxford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify that a health care directive containing a "DO-NOT-RESUSCITATE" order must be followed by emergency responders.
SUMMARY
LR 2450
An Act To Provide Adult Adoptees Access to Their Original Birth Certificates
Representative Davis, G of Falmouth
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would permit an adult adoptee to obtain a copy of the adoptee's original, unaltered bith certificate.  It also permits a birth parent to express a preference regarding contact with the adoptee by filing a contact preference form with the registrar of vital records.
SUMMARY
LR 2920
An Act Regarding Child Custody Evaluations
Representative Dunn of Bangor
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill provides good-faith protection for psychologists conducting child custody evaluations similar to protections existing in Florida and West Virginia.
SUMMARY
LR 2590
An Act To Allocate Child Support Appropriately
Representative Flood of Winthrop
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would authorize a court to stop the collection process of back child support if the parent paying the support can prove that the child has been living with that parent during the time of nonpayment of the support.
SUMMARY
Page 23 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Judiciary
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2448
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing Living Wills of Terminally Ill Persons
Representative Grose of Woolwich
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill proposes to set forth standard language to be included in living wills to provide increased guidance and certainty when a patient is terminally ill or when a doctor has determined that all lifesaving means have been exhausted.
SUMMARY
LR 2741
An Act To Protect Access to Social Security Numbers
Representative Hotham of Dixfield
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit the use of social security numbers as account numbers by public and private entities.
SUMMARY
LR 2560
An Act To Prevent Elder Financial Abuse
Senator Mayo of Sagadahoc
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would make all employees of banks, savings institutions and credit unions mandated reporters of elder financial abuse.
SUMMARY
LR 2642
An Act To Protect Businesses from Unnecessary Eminent Domain Takings
Representative Merrill of Appleton
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the State to make a showing that the taking is an absolute necessity to accomplish the public purpose.  In all instances where it is possible, the State may take only the portion of the business that is necessary for a public purpose so as to allow the private 
business to continue.  This bill would be retroactive in that it would apply to any taking in which the terms of the taking have not been finally determined, including both the process of determining price or a timely filed appeal of that value determination.
SUMMARY
Page 24 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Judiciary
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2778
An Act To Improve the Efficiency of the District Court with Regard to Certain Evictions
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill is the recommendation of a working group of representatives of landlords, tenants and participants from the judicial system requested by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary to suggest methods of improving the efficiency of the District Court in handling evictions for nonpayment while still ensuring substantive and procedural due process to tenants.  This will give the District Court flexibility to adjudicate evictions for nonpayment while nonpayment of rent when the tenant fails to appear in court
It would authorize the court to designate a quasi-judicial officer to determine whether the landlord is in compliance with the forcible entry and detainer process, determine    
that the only issue is nonpayment of rent and then grant judgment if the tenant fails to appeal.  A request for a hearing or the inclusion of any other issues would require 
the case to be scheduled for the usual eviction docket in that court.  This process would be employed in courts in which eviction dockets are not scheduled on a weekly basis.
SUMMARY
LR 2903
An Act To Correct Deficiencies in the Divorce Laws
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify the grounds and procedures for a divorce in cases in which one spouse has become permanently medically incompetent.  This bill would also clarify that the trial court may entertain requests for and issue orders for spousal support while a case is on appeal.
SUMMARY
LR 2459
An Act To Clarify Laws Governing Eminent Domain
Representative Pelletier-Simpson of Auburn
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would provide more limited-use eminent domain power than was allowed in the Kelo decision.
SUMMARY
LR 2915
An Act To Protect Children from Contact with Convicted Sex Offenders
Senator Perry, J of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow a court to consider persons with whom a parent lives in determining whether to grant primary residence or contact.  It would allow the court to prohibit residence or contact with a parent who lives with a convicted sex offender.
SUMMARY
Page 25 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Judiciary
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2571
An Act To Provide Notification to a Person Who Holds a Protection from Abuse Order When the Person against Whom the Order Is Held Attempts To Purchase a Firearm
Senator Strimling of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill provides notification to a person who holds a protection from abuse order when the person against whom the order is held attempts to purchase a firearm.
SUMMARY
Labor
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Improve the Maine Enterprise Option Program
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2931
Senator Bartlett of Cumberland
This bill would change the Maine Enterprise Option program, which allows a person to start a business and to receive self-employment income without reducing unemployment benefits, by allowing that person to receive per diem compensation as an employee for services provided by that business without a reduction in unemployment benefits.
SUMMARY
LR 2981
An Act To Protect the Employment Rights of Military Reserve and National Guard Personnel
Representative Bryant, M of Windham
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
The bill would allow members of the military reserve and National Guard returning from temporary duty overseas 72 hours before returning to work rather than the 8 hours provided under federal law.
SUMMARY
LR 2794
An Act To Prevent State Taxpayers from Subsidizing Large Employers
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require large employers to contribute toward the cost of the state health care system, unless they provide a certain level of funding for employee health coverage.
SUMMARY
LR 2795
An Act To Protect Workers from Political Intimidation
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prevent employers from engaging in coercive practices against employees with regard to political views.
SUMMARY
Page 26 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Labor
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2540
An Act To Improve Workplace Safety
Representative Fischer of Presque Isle
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would require businesses to post policies on safety for all employees.  If there are more than 15 employees, the business must have training for new hires and annual training for managers.  This bill would also create a task force to help improve workplace safety.
SUMMARY
LR 2588
An Act To Limit Variation in the Start and End Times of the Work Day
Representative Flood of Winthrop
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
The purpose of this bill is to prevent employers from changing the start time and finish time of a work day on a daily basis.  The bill proposes to set up guidelines for employers on setting times.
SUMMARY
LR 2828
An Act To Create Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Representative Lerman of Augusta
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create incentives for employees to hire people with disabilities.
SUMMARY
LR 2922
An Act To Clarify the Change of Beneficiary Provision in the Maine State Retirement System Laws
Representative Millett of Waterford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow a retiree under the Maine State Retirement System to change the beneficiary of that person in the case of a divorce if the divorce judgment stipulates the retiree's pension rights are not marital property.
SUMMARY
LR 2986
An Act To Clarify the Unemployment Laws Relating to Subcontractors
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would clarify that the services performed by a subcontractor are not considered employment for purposes of the unemployment compensation laws if the work performed is generally done by a subcontractor who performs such work for multiple contractors in the course of the subcontractor's annual employment and is the type of work that is generally done by an independent contractor.
SUMMARY
Page 27 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Labor
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2606
An Act To Assist Maine Military Families
Senator Schneider of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill requires that businesses with 50 or more employees give 15 unpaid days of leave for immediate family members of any Maine person serving in the military, after the family members' vacation time is used.
SUMMARY
LR 2471
Resolve, To Direct the Maine State Retirement System To Divest Certain Holdings
Senator Strimling of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This resolve directs the Maine State Retirement System to divest any holdings it has in the countries of Sudan and Uganda due to their human rights violations.
SUMMARY
LR 2895
An Act To Allow Employers To Make Payments for Undisputed Portions of Workers' Compensation Claims
Senator Weston of Waldo
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow an employer to provide payment to an employee filing a workers' compensation claim for those portions of the claim the employer does not dispute.
SUMMARY
Legal and Veterans Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Require That the Costs Associated with Enacting a Direct Initiative Appear on the Ballot
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2784
Representative Bowles of Sanford
This bill would require that the costs associated with enacting a direct initiative appear on the ballot
SUMMARY
LR 2859
An Act To Extend the Lobbyist Reporting Requirements to Executive Branch Lobbying Activities
Representative Canavan of Waterville
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require that individuals who lobby for the executive branch be subject to the same reporting requirements as any lobbyist that receives payment for that lobbyist's services.
SUMMARY
Page 28 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Legal and Veterans Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2879
An Act To Require the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices To Produce a Register with Photos of All Registered Lobbyists
Representative Canavan of Waterville
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill proposes to require the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices to produce an annual register of all lobbyists registered in the State and to supply copies of the register to all members of the Legislature.  The register must contain a photo of each lobbyist.
SUMMARY
LR 2890
An Act To Allow Independent Wineries To Serve Wine at Trade Shows
Representative Dunn of Bangor
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow independent wineries to serve wine directly to consumers at trade shows.
SUMMARY
LR 2685
An Act To Allow the Importation of Wine
Representative Duplessie of Westbrook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow the interstate and overseas sale of wine to Maine residents.
SUMMARY
LR 2894
An Act To Allow Small Businesses To Participate in Liquor Sales
Representative Mills, J of Farmington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow for agency liquor stores in a municipality with a population of more than 5,000 but less than 20,000 where a state liquor store has been closed.
SUMMARY
LR 2697
An Act To Clarify Provisions of the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Regarding Promotions
Representative Patrick of Rumford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify that agency liquor stores may sell any distilled spirits package, combination of packages, or market promotion material for spirits that has been approved by the State Liquor and Lottery Commission and which conforms to standards set forth under the Federal Alcohol Administration Act.
SUMMARY
Page 29 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Legal and Veterans Affairs
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2851
An Act To Create Fairness in Liquor Licensing Fees
Representative Webster of Freeport
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create a progressive fee for certain liquor licensing based on the volume of sales.
SUMMARY
Marine Resources
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Improve Water Monitoring at Clam Flats
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2480
Representative Emery of Cutler
This bill would require the Department of Marine Resources to improve the monitoring of waters at clam flats.
SUMMARY
LR 2709
An Act Regarding the Appointment of Harbor Masters
Senator Hastings of Oxford
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would make discretionary, rather than obligatory the requirement that a harbormaster be appointed upon the  request of a person desiring mooring privileges.
SUMMARY
Natural Resources
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Promote Recycling of Cellular Telephones
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2972
Representative Babbidge of Kennebunk
This bill, which is modelled on California law, would promote the recycling of cellular telephones.
SUMMARY
LR 2635
An Act To Ensure Long-term Capacity of Municipal Landfills
Senator Cowger of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill prohibits municipally owned landfills from accepting out-of-state waste.
SUMMARY
Page 30 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Natural Resources
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2925
An Act To Consolidate the Management of Solid Waste
Senator Cowger of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would consolidate the management of solid waste in the Department of Environmental Protection.  Currently, the Department of Environmental Protection and the Executive Department, State Planning Office are responsible for the management of solid waste.
SUMMARY
LR 2796
An Act To Protect Maine's Groundwater Resources
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend Maine law to prevent unreasonable use of groundwater.
SUMMARY
LR 2799
An Act To Sustain Good Local Planning Practices
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow municipalities with longstanding oversight of subdivisions to continue overseeing development of property, even if that oversight is more rigorous than state law.
SUMMARY
LR 2721
An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Governor's Task Force Regarding the Shutdown of the Maine Energy Recovery Company Trash-burning Facility in Biddeford
Senator Hobbins of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would implement the recommendations of the Governor's task force regarding the shutdown of the Maine Energy Recovery Corporation trash-burning facility in Biddeford.
SUMMARY
LR 2961
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing Sand Dune Protection
Senator Hobbins of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the laws protecting sand dunes to recognize erosion resulting in part from man-made structures and to allow the longer-term placement of an offshore breakwater to protect property.
SUMMARY
Page 31 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Natural Resources
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2536
An Act To Provide an Energy Emergency Relief Fund To Provide Assistance for Home Heating Oil Costs for Residents of This State and for Gasoline Costs for Service Providers
Representative Lerman of Augusta
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill establishes a $5,000,000 energy emergency relief fund to supplement current low-income home heating fuel programs and to provide assistance for higher fuel costs to providers of emergency services.
SUMMARY
LR 2848
An Act To Protect Maine Families and the Environment by Improving the Collection and Recycling of Mercury Thermostats
Senator Martin of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require manufacturers to pay for the safe recovery, collection and recycling of mercury-added thermostats and strengthen the existing mercury thermostat collection laws.
SUMMARY
LR 2862
An Act To Prevent Noise and Air Pollution in the Town of Oakland
Senator Mitchell of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require Guilford Transportation trains that run through the Town of Oakland to stop for a change of crew only at the rail yard where train noise and diesel fumes are anticipated, when stops will not disrupt residential neighbors' sleep and enjoyment of their property and where the noise, fumes and odor pollution will not harm the public.
SUMMARY
LR 2451
An Act To Protect the Water Quality of Colcord Pond and Bickford Pond in Porter
Representative Muse of Fryeburg
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would prohibit the use of personal watercraft on Colcord Pond and Bickford Pond in Porter.  This request as 
LR 2407 was withdrawn at the May 26, 2005 meeting of the Legislative Council.
SUMMARY
LR 2583
An Act To Improve the Water Quality and Safety of Phillips Lake
Senator Rosen, R of Hancock
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would remove the maximum height restriction for the dam at the outlet of Phillips Lake.
SUMMARY
Page 32 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Natural Resources
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2860
An Act To Establish the Maine State Agricultural Drought Protection Act
Senator Weston of Waldo
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish a program to protect the rights of farmers for the wise and reasonable use of water during severe agricultural droughts where those rights may be limited by the establishment of a restricted low-flow limit to protect streams from water quality degradation.
SUMMARY
LR 2861
An Act To Create the Maine Agricultural Water Source Development and Management Program
Senator Weston of Waldo
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish a water source development and management program to ensure that agricultural producers have access to water for crop and livestock needs, especially during agricultural droughts.
SUMMARY
State and Local Government
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
Resolve, Directing the Cumberland County Commissioners To Establish a Task Force To Establish New County Commissioner Districts
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
LR 2514
Representative Barstow of Gorham
This bill increases the number of Cumberland County Commissioners from 3 to 7.  A task force established by Cumberland County will establish new county commissioner districts to be in place until the next general redistricting.
SUMMARY
LR 2566
An Act To Change the Name of Little Island to Chickering Island
Senator Bromley of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill changes the name of Little Island to Chickering Island.
SUMMARY
LR 2762
An Act Regarding Preferences in Bidding on Maine State Housing Authority Contracts
Senator Bromley of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would eliminate preferences in bidding on contracts, adopted by rule by the Maine State Housing  Authority, for companies that provide health insurance to their employees.
SUMMARY
Page 33 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
State and Local Government
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2516
RESOLUTION, Amending the Constitution of Maine To Lower the Age of Eligibility for Election to the House of Representatives
Representative Cain of Orono
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This resolution would amend the Constitution of Maine to decrease from 21 years of age to 18 years of age the minimum age for election to the Maine House of Representatives.
SUMMARY
LR 2496
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing the Municipal Tax Cap To Protect Municipalities That Use Reserve Funds To Lower Their Mill Rates
Senator Clukey of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill amends the laws governing the municipal tax cap to allow a municipality to use reserve funds raised through property taxes to reduce the mill rate without being penalized in the calculation of the municipal tax cap for the next year.
SUMMARY
LR 2534
An Act To Double Fees Paid for Service of Writs and Complaints
Senator Davis, P of Piscataquis
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would increase the fees to be paid to sheriffs and deputies for service of certain writs and complaints.
SUMMARY
LR 2793
An Act To Strengthen Maine's Purchasing Code of Conduct
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would ensure that Maine is able to monitor and enforce compliance with the state purchasing code of conduct, including disclosure of factory locations, independent monitoring, and providing alternative methods of enforcing compliance.
SUMMARY
LR 2452
An Act To Allow the Buckfield Village Corporation To Be Dissolved and Combined with the Town of Buckfield
Representative Hanley, B of Paris
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill authorizes the dissolution of the Buckfield Village Corporation and allows it to become part of the Town of Buckfield.  This request as LR 2410 was withdrawn at the May 26, 2005 meeting of the Legislative Council.
SUMMARY
Page 34 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
State and Local Government
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2959
An Act To Confirm the Authority of the City of Saco To Acquire Extraterritorial Facilities
Senator Hobbins of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would confirm the authority of the City of Saco, as provided in its charter, to issue bonds, notes and other evidences of indebtedness to acquire interests in real estate located outside the political boundaries of the city in order to improve environmental or economic conditions within the city.  This confirmation of the city's extraterritorial authority is required in connection with the city's plan to issue bonds to acquire and ultimately close the MERC facility in Biddeford.
SUMMARY
LR 2568
An Act To Allow the Towns of Mapleton, Castle Hill and Chapman To Deposit All Tax Revenues, Grant Revenues and Other Income and Revenues into One Depository Account
Senator Martin of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow the towns of Mapleton, Castle Hill and Chapman to deposit all tax receipts, grant receipts and other income and revenues of the towns into one depository account pursuant to an interlocal agreement.
SUMMARY
LR 2562
An Act To Authorize Chebeague Island To Secede from the Town of Cumberland
Representative McKenney of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would authorize Chebeague Island to secede from the Town of Cumberland.
SUMMARY
LR 2463
An Act To Increase the Salary of the Governor
Representative Moore, G of Standish
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill provides that the next governor must be paid at least 10% more than any other State Government employee.
SUMMARY
LR 2453
An Act Authorizing the Deorganization of Drew Plantation
Senator Raye of Washington
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill continues the process of deorganizing Drew Plantation.  This request as LR 2375 was withdrawn at the May 26, 2005 meeting of the Legislative Council.
SUMMARY
Page 35 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
State and Local Government
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2790
An Act To Encourage Reporting of Potential Fraud in State Government
Senator Schneider of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would ensure confidentiality of information provided to government hotlines that employees and the public call to report potential fraud regarding internal financial operations of government.  The bill would also authorize the State to establish a confidential fraud hotline to enable members of the public to report potential fraud and abuses of State Government programs.
SUMMARY
LR 2690
An Act To Amend the Fees for Probate Filings
Senator Weston of Waldo
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the fees for probate filings.
SUMMARY
Taxation
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Clarify the Taxable Status of Lobster Traps
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
LR 2611
Senator Andrews of York
This bill would make the taxing of lobster traps optional.
SUMMARY
LR 2611
An Act To Clarify the Taxable Status of Lobster Traps
Senator Andrews of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would make the taxing of lobster traps optional.
SUMMARY
LR 2695
An Act To Encourage Energy Independence for Maine
Senator Bartlett of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create a tax credit for companies that make biofuels.  The bill would also create a tax credit for companies, manufacturers and supplies of renewable energy or green-based products.  The bill would establish a hot line for contributions to supplement the LIHEAP program and also allocate $20 million from the General Fund to supplement the LIHEAP program.
SUMMARY
Page 36 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Taxation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2802
An Act To Clarify the Taxable Status of Processing Fees Charged in Connection with Cancelled Lodging Reservations
Senator Cowger of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify the sales tax law to specifically state that processing fees or forfeited advanced deposits held by an innkeeper in connection with a cancelled lodging reservation or the failure of a guest to show on the day of arrival are not subject to sales tax.
SUMMARY
LR 2653
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing the Assessment of Property Taxes in the Event of a Change of Ownership of the Property
Representative Craven of Lewiston
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the tax assessor to change the records once notice of a change in ownership of real property is received.  Additionally this bill would exempt the previous property owner from liability for any taxes incurred after the change in ownership as long as the previous property owner provides certain information, such as a copy of the executed deed, to the assessor.
SUMMARY
LR 2537
An Act To Provide Additional Property Tax Relief to Maine Citizens
Representative Cummings of Portland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require municipalities to use 90% of the increased state funding for education for property tax  relief beginning in fiscal year 2006-07.
SUMMARY
LR 2637
An Act To Exempt Snow Grooming Equipment and Machinery from the Personal Property Tax
Senator Davis, P of Piscataquis
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would exempt snow grooming equipment and machinery from the personal property tax.
SUMMARY
LR 2975
An Act To Promote College Savings Accounts
Representative Driscoll of Westbrook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would treat all out-of-state 529 plans the same as Maine's 529 plan for the purposes of taxation.
SUMMARY
Page 37 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Taxation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2888
An Act To Adjust the Excise Tax Filing Schedule for Wine and Beer Producers
Representative Dunn of Bangor
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would change the excise tax filing schedule for wine producers to coincide with the sales tax schedule.
SUMMARY
LR 2686
An Act To Clarify Municipal Valuations of Resort Property
Representative Duplessie of Westbrook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require that time share valuations for tax purposes be based on a building's value as if the unit were owned by a single taxpayer.
SUMMARY
LR 2798
An Act To Strengthen Maine's Craft Brewing Industry
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create tax incentives for craft breweries to increase their exports of malt beverages and would create a new license for contract brewers.
SUMMARY
LR 2724
An Act To Conserve Energy in Maine Homes
Representative Fletcher of Winslow
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would restore funding to the Maine State Housing Authority from the real estate transfer tax to be used to weatherize the homes of Maine residents to reduce energy consumption.
SUMMARY
LR 2528
An Act To Establish a Refundable Historic Rehabilitation Credit
Senator Mitchell of Kennebec
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow a refundable historic rehabilitation credit to a developer that owns 2 or more structures located in the Kennebec Arsenal District National Historic Landmark.  The refundable credit is limited to $500,000 per year and is allowed only for 4 consecutive tax years beginning in 2006.
SUMMARY
Page 38 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Taxation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2982
An Act To Ensure Continued Viability of Affordable Housing
Senator Perry, J of Penobscot
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify that intangible assets should not be taken into account in the assessment of affordable housing projects financed with the federal Low-income Housing Tax Credit.
SUMMARY
LR 2812
An Act To Exempt Vegetable Seeds for Home Gardens from the Sales Tax
Representative Piotti of Unity
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would repeal the tax on vegetable seeds for home gardens.
SUMMARY
LR 2749
An Act To Eliminate the Double Taxation of Motor Fuels
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow consumers to apply for a rebate for fuel taxes for miles traveled on the Maine Turnpike.
SUMMARY
LR 2752
An Act To Encourage New Businesses and Business Expansions in Maine
Speaker Richardson, J of Brunswick
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would exempt from the personal property tax business machinery and equipment and replace the Business Tax Reimbursement program with a reimbursement to municipalities currently receiving revenues from the personal property tax on business equipment.
SUMMARY
LR 2965
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing the Excise Tax on New Automobiles
Representative Schatz of Blue Hill
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the laws governing the excise tax on new automobiles.
SUMMARY
Page 39 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Taxation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2666
An Act To Clarify the Qualifications for the Maine Residents Property Tax Program
Senator Sullivan of York
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow residents who rent out their property to qualify for the Maine Residents Property Tax Program if they rent out the property for less than one month per year.
SUMMARY
LR 2882
An Act To Establish Guidelines and Criteria for Maine Revenue Services Audits
Representative Tardy of Newport
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish guidelines and criteria for Maine Revenue Service audits.
SUMMARY
Transportation
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Prevent Dangerous Commercial Drivers on Maine's Highways
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
LR 2486
Representative Ash of Belfast
This bill requires an agency within Maine to request an independent contractor using a commercial driver's license to provide verification of a valid driver's license and driving record before the agency hires the contractor to transport goods on Maine's highways.
SUMMARY
LR 2472
An Act To Ensure Business Equity and Commercial Vehicle Registration
Representative Blanchard of Old Town
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill requires the registration in Maine of all construction and road-maintenance-oriented vehicles being rented in Maine for operation on a public way.
SUMMARY
LR 2598
An Act To Improve the Process for Issuing Duplicate Motor Vehicle Certificates of Title
Senator Bromley of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would eliminate the requirement that a duplicate certificate of title or certificate of salvage contain language indicating that the certificate is a duplicate.
SUMMARY
Page 40 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Transportation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2607
An Act To Increase Efficiency in Truck Hauling
Representative Carr of Lincoln
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill allows trucks hauling chips and sawdust in trailers that are 53 feet long to utilize the same roads that trucks with trailers that are 48 feet long are authorized to use, as long as the overall length of the truck and trailer is not over 74 feet and the wheel base axle distance is the same.
SUMMARY
LR 2651
An Act To Require That New Road Construction or Repair Include Sidewalks or Bike Trails or Both
Representative Craven of Lewiston
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require that new road construction and repair include sidewalks or bike trails or both.
SUMMARY
LR 2700
An Act To Allow Businesses To Place a Sign at the Topsham Mall Exit on Interstate 95
Representative Crosby of Topsham
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would allow businesses to pay the $12,000 cost to put a sign at the Topsham exit on Interstate 95.
SUMMARY
LR 2488
An Act To Safeguard Maine's Highways
Representative Curley of Scarborough
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would enact measures concerning drivers with multiple driving offenses to better safeguard Maine's  highways.  This bill would implement the recommendations of the Perpetual Violators in Maine Working group,including the establishment of mandatory jail time for repeat offenders.
SUMMARY
LR 2625
An Act To Clarify the Assessment of Costs To Maintain a Private Way or Bridge
Senator Diamond of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require an assessment for the repair or maintenance of a private way or bridge to be applied proportionally on the owners according to the assessed valuation.
SUMMARY
Page 41 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Transportation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2684
An Act To Improve Traffic Safety at Intersections
Representative Duplessie of Westbrook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require traffic signal lights to have a specific time delay between changes and would establish the minimum duration of that delay.
SUMMARY
LR 2671
An Act To Protect Real Estate Values Impaired by Railroad Operations
Representative Finch of Fairfield
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would require the railroad to offer to purchase any property located within 1000 feet of a railroad grade crossing where horns are sounded that remains on the market for more than one year.
SUMMARY
LR 2719
An Act To Clarify the Intent of the Law That Allows Retired Firefighters To Retain Their Firefighter License Plates
Representative Jackson of Fort Kent
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would clarify the intent of Public Law 2005, chapter 80, "An Act To Allow Retired Firefighters To Retain Their Firefighter License Plates," so that it applies retroactively to all retired firefighters.
SUMMARY
LR 2621
An Act To Prohibit Parking in Access Aisles and To Establish a Minimum Width for Access Aisles
Representative Marley of Portland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish a minimum width for access aisles adjacent to parking spaces for the physically disabled in which parking is prohibited.
SUMMARY
LR 2659
An Act To Modernize the Charter of the Lewiston and Auburn Railroad Company
Representative Sampson of Auburn
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would update the articles of incorporation of the Lewiston and Auburn Railroad Company.
SUMMARY
Page 42 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Transportation
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2622
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing Ferry Service Travel for Individuals with Catastrophic Illness
Senator Savage of Knox
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would offer transportation services from the  Maine State Ferry Service to and from regularly scheduled, medically necessary appointments with medical care providers to a person who has a catastrophic illness.
SUMMARY
Utilities and Energy
BROAD SUBJECT:
SPONSOR:
An Act To Amend the Charter of the Boothbay Harbor Sewer District
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
LR 2703
Representative Bishop of Boothbay
This bill would extend the territory of the Boothbay Harbor Sewer District to include all of the territory of the Town of Boothbay to provide for regional sewer service.  The bill also increases the debt limit of the Boothbay Harbor Sewer District from $5,500,000 to $8,500,000 to assist the Town of Boothbay in extending sewer service north along the State Route 27 corridor to allow for economic development  and the additional protection of the region's drinking water resources in the Adams Pond watershed.
SUMMARY
LR 2958
An Act To Protect Maine's Electricity Consumers
Representative Brautigam of Falmouth
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would give the Public Utilities Commission the authority to withdraw from participation in the system of any independent system operator if the commission finds that the interests of Maine electricity consumers are not adequately protected.
SUMMARY
LR 2800
An Act To Enhance Competition and Consumer Choice in the Telecommunications Industry
President Edmonds of Cumberland
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create a statewide cable franchise system, based on a similar system enacted in Texas.
SUMMARY
Page 43 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005

122nd Legislature - Second Regular Session
Accepted Bills By Broad Subject
Utilities and Energy
BROAD SUBJECT:
LR 2620
An Act To Change the Charter of the Saint Francis Water District
Representative Jackson of Fort Kent
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would amend the charter of the Saint Francis Water District to allow town selectmen to serve on the water district board.
SUMMARY
LR 2596
An Act To Create the Washburn Water and Sewer District
Senator Martin of Aroostook
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would create the Washburn Water and Sewer District.
SUMMARY
LR 2532
An Act To Establish the Athens Standard Water District
Senator Mills, P of Somerset
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would establish the Athens Water District.
SUMMARY
LR 2520
An Act To Allow for Access to Digital Phone Service for Customers in Rural Areas
Representative Robinson of Raymond
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 11/28/2005
This bill would allow customers in rural areas access to digital phone service provided through cable companies.
SUMMARY
LR 2552
An Act To Improve Cell Phone Service in Maine
Representative Thomas of Ripley
SPONSOR:
ACCEPTED ON: 10/27/2005
This bill would allow cell phone users to keep analog phones when switching service until the quality of digital service is equal to that of analog in all parts of the State.
SUMMARY
Page 44 of 44
Accepted Bills / Broad Subject as of 12/2/2005