Bill > LD1737

This bill establishes a new legal classification for "commercial sporting camps" in Maine, creating a distinct licensing category with specific requirements and protections. The bill defines a commercial sporting camp as a lodging facility primarily offering services for hunting, fishing, or snowmobiling in rural areas, with specific criteria such as having a caretaker, being open to the public, and being authorized to collect sales tax. The bill prevents the Department of Health and Human Services from requiring commercial sporting camps in areas without municipal water supplies to install sprinkler systems or upgrade plumbing and septic systems if they are currently operational. Additionally, the bill allows these camps to serve meals to the general public if they meet Class A restaurant requirements and prohibits the department from requiring compliance with other state laws beyond the licensing requirements. The legislation also provides that a commercial sporting camp license can be transferred to a new owner without additional licensing requirements and establishes penalties for misrepresenting qualifications for the license. This bill aims to support and preserve Maine's sporting camp heritage by creating a more flexible regulatory framework that recognizes the unique nature of these rural lodging establishments.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1737&snum=132