CHAPTER 10
H.P. 776 - L.D. 1020
Resolve, to Assess the Condition of Historical Records in Maine Historical Records Repositories
Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas, historical records in historical records repositories must be protected and preserved; and
Whereas, access to those records must be ensured; and
Whereas, the condition of historical records in historical records repositories throughout the State must be assessed in order to provide for their protection, preservation and access; 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. Assessment. Resolved: That the Secretary of State and the University of Maine System, in consultation with professionals with expertise in the preservation of documents, shall develop a comprehensive plan for assessing:
1. The condition of historical records in the State;
2. Threats to the integrity of those records; and
3. Accessibility of those records.
For the purposes of this resolve, the term "historical records" includes rare books and other published materials with unique historical value as well as original records with historical value. The plan must include an educational component that provides assistance to historical records repositories in protecting, preserving and providing access to those historical records; and be it further
Sec. 2. Report. Resolved: That the Secretary of State and the University of Maine System, in cooperation with the Maine Historical Records Advisory Board and other organizations and individuals concerned with historical records, shall submit a report along with any recommended legislation to the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs no later than February 1, 2002. The Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs may report out a bill to the Second Regular Session of the 120th Legislature pertaining to the preservation and protection of historical records and access to those records.
Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this resolve takes effect when approved.
Effective May 8, 2001.
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