An Act to Further Define a Strain of Maine Standardbred Horses
Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas, the breeding season for horses begins February 15th; 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:
Sec. 1. 8 MRSA §281-A is enacted to read:
§281-A. Standardbred horses eligible for registration
Notwithstanding section 281, a foal resulting from insemination during the 2003, 2004 or 2005 breeding season may be registered as a Maine Standardbred if it is the offspring of a stallion registered with the department to stand at stud in the State for the breeding season during which the insemination took place and all other registration requirements are met.
Sec. 2. Report on breeding and registration of Maine Standardbred horses. No later than February 1, 2005, the State Harness Racing Commission shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agricultural matters on the breeding of Maine Standardbred horses. The report must include a discussion of the definition of "Maine Standardbred horse" and the impact on Maine breeders and racing of allowing registration as a Maine Standardbred of the offspring of a mare inseminated with semen transported out of state. The commission shall make recommendations regarding the definition of "Maine Standardbred horse." During the First Regular Session of the 122nd Legislature, the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agricultural matters may report out legislation regarding the definition of "Maine Standardbred horse."
Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this Act takes effect when approved.
Effective April 8, 2003.
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