4. Estimate the need caused by a casino for any new or increased services; and be it further

Sec. 6. Staff assistance. Resolved: That upon approval of the Legislative Council, the Office of Policy and Legal Analysis shall provide necessary staffing services to the task force; and be it further

Sec. 7. Compensation. Resolved: That the legislative members of the task force are entitled to receive legislative per diem, as defined in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 3, section 2, and reimbursement for travel and other necessary expenses related to their attendance at meetings of the task force. Public members not otherwise compensated by their employers or other entities that they represent are entitled to receive reimbursement of necessary expenses for their attendance at authorized meetings of the task force; and be it further

Sec. 8. Report. Resolved: That the task force shall submit its report that includes its findings and recommendations, including suggested legislation, to the First Regular Session of the 121st Legislature no later than January 2, 2003. The task force is authorized to introduce legislation related to its report to the First Regular Session of the 121st Legislature at the time of submission of its report; and be it further

Sec. 9. Extension. Resolved: That, if the task force requires a limited extension of time to complete its study and make its report, it may apply to the Legislative Council, which may grant an extension; and be it further

Sec. 10. Task force budget. Resolved: That the chairs of the task force, with assistance from the task force staff, shall administer the task force's budget. Within 10 days after its first meeting, the task force shall present a work plan and proposed budget to the Legislative Council for its approval. The task force may not incur expenses that would result in the task force exceeding its approved budget.

Upon request from the task force, the Executive Director of the Legislative Council or the executive director's designee shall promptly provide the task force chairs and staff with a status report on the study budget, expenditures incurred and paid and available funds.

SUMMARY

This resolve establishes the Task Force to Study the Impact of a Maine-based Casino. The task force is comprised of Legislators, including a tribal representative, the Attorney General, the Chief of State Police, the Commissioner of Transportation, a member of the Maine Sheriffs' Association and members of the public. The task force is charged with estimating the impact of a casino based in Maine upon employment, the transportation infrastructure the State's economy and the State's revenues.