Whereas, individuals from out of state have recently purchased large tracts of land in the State, including a recent purchase of over 20,000 acres of land in the unorganized territory around Moosehead Lake, known as the Township of East Middlesex; and

Whereas, there is a long, historic, traditional relationship between landowners and holders of recreational and seasonal leases of camp lots; and

Whereas, there is a long history and tradition of public access along private roads, recreation trails and rights-of-way to great ponds; and

Whereas, one landowner is now terminating and restricting the existing leases on that individual's land and may close off all public access to the land; and

Whereas, such a shift in the traditional relationship between a person leasing a camp lot in the woodlands and wildlands of the State and the landowner may have a negative economic impact on the State; and

Whereas, this legislation establishes the Commission to Study Issues Concerning Changes to the Traditional Uses of Maine Forests and Lands, which is charged with the duties of assessing the economic and societal impact of the elimination and restriction of camp lot lease arrangements in the State and of developing a plan to address this problem; and

Whereas, in order for the appointing authorities to make their appointments and for the commission to have sufficient time to conclude its work, it is necessary for this legislation to take effect immediately; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Commission to Study Issues Concerning Changes to the Traditional Uses of Maine Forests and Lands, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further