CHAPTER 120

H.P. 1013 - L.D. 1378

An Act To Provide Financial Relief for Maine Dairy Farmers

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the producer price of milk has dropped to 20-year lows; and

Whereas, these prices jeopardize the viability of the Maine dairy industry; and

Whereas, the Maine dairy industry is essential to the State's rural economy and communities and generates business activity and preserves open space; and

Whereas, the stabilization of the dairy industry during temporary price drops constitutes a public purpose and an appropriate expenditure of state revenues; 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 enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows: