An Act To Add Vehicles Hauling Animal Bedding to Those Exempt from Posted Road Restrictions

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

Whereas,  Maine is an agricultural state with a long tradition of supporting its farmers and livestock producers; and

Whereas,  often the State, counties and municipalities cannot timely process or issue permits to traverse posted roads; and

Whereas,  agricultural interests and the needs of animals can be immediate, and delays in obtaining permits to traverse posted roads can result in harm to or loss of livestock; 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,

Sec. 1. 29-A MRSA §2395, sub-§9  is enacted to read:

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

SUMMARY

This bill exempts vehicles hauling animal bedding from posted road restrictions imposed by the Department of Transportation, counties or municipalities.