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Maine Regulatory Fairness Board

The Maine Regulatory Fairness Board (RFB) invites public testimony on regulatory and statutory issues that affect Maine businesses. To effectively report to the Legislature and the Governor on regulatory conflicts, the Board elicits public comment from Maine business owners/managers and the public concerning:

• specific state rules and regulations that may unreasonably impede business sustainability and growth; and

• recommendations for regulatory and statutory change that may enhance Maine’s business climate.

The Board holds hearings in various parts of the state to invite testimony that highlights and details regulations in need of scrutiny and amendment. The Board announces these hearings via newspapers and websites* to attract those who wish to present their perspectives on pertinent topics. The Board also holds public meetings in Augusta where it weighs public comments and addresses administrative matters to advance operational goals and objectives.

These public comments directly set the hearing agendas and greatly inform the Board’s recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature. Public participation is thus an essential element to achieving the Board’s goals and objectives. Please consider attending meetings whenever possible to share your valuable insights.

The Board is chaired by the Secretary of State and is comprised of four members who are or have been owners or operators of Maine businesses. It is staffed by Maine’s Small Business Advocate. One member is appointed by the President of the Senate, one member is appointed by the Speaker of the House, and two members are appointed by the Governor, one of whom represents businesses with fewer than 50 employees and another who represents those with fewer than 20 employees.

    Members:

• Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap, Old Town - Chairman
• Mr. Mark A. Tyler, Oakland - Vice Chairman
• Ms. Patricia Kuhl, Brunswick
• Mr. Michael R. Cote, Whiting
• Hon. Douglas Smith, Dover-Foxcroft

Private sector members of the Board volunteer their time and their unique expertise to serve as liaisons between the State’s business community, regulatory authorities, and lawmakers. Board members serve three-year terms and may serve up to three consecutive terms.

Regulatory Fairness Board Contact

Peggy Schaffer, Small Business Advocate
Office of the Secretary of State
148 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0148
Office: (207) 626-8410     
Fax: (207) 287-8598
E-mail: sos.office@maine.gov

Fact Sheet ( Word Doc ) ( PDF )