Bill > LD417

This bill establishes comprehensive confidentiality rules for records held by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, specifically related to the Bureau of Forestry. The bill creates a new section of law defining how investigative and service-related records can be handled, including clear definitions of terms like "conclusion of an investigation" and establishing when records are considered confidential. Generally, records obtained during investigations or while providing public services are considered confidential, but with several important exceptions that allow disclosure under specific circumstances, such as to designated department employees, other state or federal agencies, or when necessary to prevent serious harm. The bill also specifies that investigative records shared by the Attorney General do not automatically become public, and maintains the Attorney General's discretion in further disclosure. Additionally, the bill establishes a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for anyone who knowingly or intentionally discloses confidential records in violation of these provisions. This legislation aims to protect the integrity of departmental investigations while providing measured flexibility for appropriate information sharing.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=417&snum=132