Purpose — Maine Code § 2853.

§ 2853.. Purpose

It is the policy of the State to encourage the sound and orderly development of Maine's mineral resources. The object of this policy is to assure that the actions associated with development of these resources will:   [PL 1981, c. 711, §10 (NEW).]

1.  Expansion and diversification of economy.  Encourage expansion and diversification of the state's economy and create new employment opportunities for the state's people;

2.  Land use; environmental, safety and health regulations.  Adhere to sound and effective land use, environmental, safety and health regulations administered through appropriate public agencies;

3.  Assistance to municipalities and counties.  Provide planning and development assistance to municipalities, counties and the unorganized territory if significantly affected by mineral resource development; and

4.  Scheme of taxation.  Establish a practical scheme of taxation on mining companies which will:

A. Permit these companies to profitably operate mines within the State;   [PL 1981, c. 711, §10 (NEW).]

B. Encourage the economically efficient extraction of minerals;   [PL 1981, c. 711, §10 (NEW).]

C. Permit the State to derive a benefit from the extraction of a nonrenewable resource; and   [PL 1981, c. 711, §10 (NEW).]

D. Compensate the State and its political subdivisions for present and future costs incurred or to be incurred as a result of the mining activity.   [PL 1981, c. 711, §10 (NEW).]