Resolve, To Direct the Department of Economic and Community Development To Convene a Task Force To Bolster and Expand Exports of Maine Products and Services

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

Whereas,  this resolve directs the Department of Economic and Community Development to convene a task force that must be initiated before the 90-day period expires in order that its study may be completed in time for a report to be submitted to the next legislative session; 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. Task force. Resolved: That, within its existing resources, the Department of Economic and Community Development shall convene a task force to study ways to increase exports of Maine products and services and to simplify the export process. The task force shall explore obstacles confronting Maine business owners trying to export goods and services, review policies and practices in other states in which the business communities successfully export goods and services and recommend measures to simplify and facilitate the export process, including any changes needed in law; and be it further

Sec. 2. Membership. Resolved: That the Department of Economic and Community Development shall invite the participation of interested parties, including but not limited to small business owners successfully exporting goods and services, the Maine International Trade Center, the Finance Authority of Maine, the United States Small Business Administration and the Maine State Chamber of Commerce; and be it further

Sec. 3. Report. Resolved: That the Department of Economic and Community Development shall submit a report describing the work of the task force, including recommendations and any suggested legislation, to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over business, research and economic development matters. Following receipt and review of the report, the joint standing committee may submit legislation based on the report to the First Regular Session of the 126th Legislature.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this legislation takes effect when approved.

SUMMARY

This resolve directs the Department of Economic and Community Development to convene a task force to study ways to bolster and expand exports of Maine products and services and to submit a report to the 126th Legislature.