19- 499 C.M.R. ch. 301, § 4

Current through 2024-36, September 4, 2024

Section 499-301-4 - Criteria for Inclusion in the Program

The policies which guide this program are provided below and the companies which participate in the program are expected to adhere to those policies as a requisite of their membership in the program. The Department, at its sole and reasonable discretion, retains the right to reject any product or producer from participation in the Maine Products Marketing Program if it does not comply with these requirements. All decisions will be made by the Department with advice from the Product Advisory Panel.

A. For inclusion in the program, proposed participating companies must demonstrate that each of their products meet each of the following criteria:

1. The product is of sufficient quality, reliability or appropriateness to meet the following standards:

a. the product uses high quality raw materials,

b. the product is safe for normal use, and

c. the product is guaranteed or warranted by the producer or manufacturer.

2. The product has sufficient connection with the State of Maine as demonstrated by two or more of the following:

a. significant labor and/or value added occurs in Maine,

b. significant concept and/or design occurs in Maine,

c. substantially all raw materials originate from Maine, and

d. substantially all packaging, handling and/or distribution occurs in Maine.

3. The producer adheres to standard, sound and ethical business practices, including but not limited to:

a. maintenance of insurance coverage,

b. possession of current business licenses as required by law, and

c. responsible customer services.

4. The product or its labeling does not contain any religious, politically oriented or sexually suggestive material.

B. A proposed participating company is required to provide a representative sample by which quality, reliability and appropriateness may be ascertained. In addition, the producer must supply any other information requested by the Commissioner which is deemed necessary to assist the Department in determining product eligibility.

C. A proposed and/or participating company is required to supply the Department such information as may be necessary to assess the program's impact and viability including but not limited to:

1. total annual sales revenues.

2. total annual employment.

19- 499 C.M.R. ch. 301, § 4