An Act To Update Provisions Of The Maine Administrative Procedure Act

LD 1778 updates Maine's rulemaking process to enhance transparency and public participation. It requires at least one-third of a multi-member agency board to be present at public hearings for proposed rules, and for single-member agencies, hearings must be conducted by a designated official (e.g., a senior agency staff member). The bill also mandates that agencies maintain detailed records of public comments and, if a rule changes substantially from its proposal, must allow 30 days for additional public feedback before adoption. Additionally, it requires agencies to post proposed rules online 20 days before hearings or comment deadlines and provide clearer notice about proposed rules, including their impact on small businesses.