On August 8, 2022, the newly created Logging Dispute Resolution Board comes into effect. See Chapter 665 of Public Law 2021. This board holds jurisdiction over forest landowners who own more than 50,000 acres of land and the independent contractors who harvest trees from that land for the landowner. The board has the authority to decide disputes related to wage violations, payout amounts, contracts violations, or disputes related to hiring.
Filing
To file a complaint with the Logging Dispute Resolution Board, please follow these steps:
- Complete LDRB Form 1 (this will serve as the official complaint filing).
- Once completed, you may either electronically file LDRB Form 1 or file it via mail or delivery service.
- To electronically file, email a copy of LDRB Form 1 to mlrb@maine.gov and to the respondent. Also, you must mail a hard copy of the LDRB Form 1 to the respondent.
- To file LDRB Form 1 via mail, please mail or deliver a copy to the board at this address:
Logging Dispute Resolution Board
c/o State Board of Arbitration and Conciliation
90 State House Station
August, ME 04333-0090
Also, you must mail or deliver hard a hard copy of LDRB Form 1 to the respondent.
Process
Once a complaint is filed with the board, the complaint will be held in abeyance pending the gubernatorial appointment of a full board. If a full board has been appointed, the complaint will be scheduled for hearing. Pending the formal enactment of its own procedural rules, the Logging Dispute Resolution Board will follow the existing practices and procedures for the State Board of Arbitration and Conciliation when applicable.