ME LD606

Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry must direct the Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources to study barriers to financial assistance programs for farmers and food producers

Study must include at least 2 listening sessions covering application procedures, outreach to applicants, accessibility for beginning and emerging farmers, and consolidation of financial assistance offerings

Study must be completed using existing resources with no additional funding

Report with findings and recommended legislation due to Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry by January 15, 2026

Enacted as emergency legislation, taking effect immediately upon approval (May 13, 2025) without Governor's signature