An Act Regarding Recommendations For Changing Place Names In The State

LD 247 requires Maine municipal officers and county commissioners to change place names deemed offensive by the Maine Human Rights Commission. If the Commission identifies a name as offensive under state law, officials must take reasonable actions within six months - including petitioning the Maine Board on Place Names, holding public hearings, and notifying state and federal agencies - to select and implement a new name. The bill establishes the Maine Board on Place Names to advise local governments and coordinate with federal entities like the U.S. Board on Geographic Names. This law directly affects local governments responsible for streets, parks, or other public places with names the Commission finds offensive.