ME LD417

Records obtained by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry during investigations of forestry-related complaints or through providing public services are designated as confidential during pending investigations

Investigation records become public once the investigation concludes through closure, issuance of an adjudicatory hearing notice, execution of a consent agreement, or filing of an enforcement proceeding in court

Exceptions allow disclosure during investigations to designated department employees, other state or federal agencies, persons under investigation upon request, and when necessary to prevent imminent serious harm

Disclosure of Attorney General investigative records to the department does not waive confidentiality, and further disclosure remains subject to the Attorney General's discretion

Knowingly or intentionally violating these confidentiality provisions constitutes a civil violation with a maximum fine of $1,000