Whereas, the statutory definitions and provisions relating to the production and sale of milk and milk products need to be revised for efficient administration and enforcement of the laws; and

Whereas, the efficient administration and enforcement of the laws is vital to the interests of the citizens of this State; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

PART A

Sec. A-1. 7 MRSA §2900 is enacted to read:

§2900.__Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

1.__Aseptically processed and packaged.__"Aseptically processed and packaged" means hermetically sealed in a container and thermally processed to render the product free of microorganisms capable of reproducing in the product under normal nonrefrigeration conditions of storage and distribution.

2.__Bulk milk hauler and sampler.__"Bulk milk hauler and sampler" means a person who collects samples and transports raw milk from a farm or raw milk products to or from a farm, milk plant, receiving station or transfer station and has in that person's possession a permit from any state to sample such products.

3.__Commissioner.__"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources or the commissioner's duly authorized agent.

4.__Dairy or dairy farm.__"Dairy or dairy farm" means any place or premises where one or more cows, goats or sheep are kept and from which milk or milk products are provided, sold or offered for sale.