Whereas, improperly discarded cigarette butts are a growing source of litter on both public and private property in Maine; and

Whereas, cigarette butts are the items of litter most frequently picked up along beaches and highways in Maine by clean-up campaign volunteers; and

Whereas, cigarette butts improperly disposed of are a threat to the environment, representing a health hazard to humans, as well as to fish and wildlife; and

Whereas, the cleanup and collection of cigarette butts and other litter constitute a significant financial burden on business and 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

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Commission to Study Ways to Eliminate Cigarette Litter in Maine, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of 15 members appointed as follows:

1. Two members of the Senate, one of whom is a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Business and Economic Development and one of whom is a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, appointed by the President of the Senate;

2. Three members of the House, 2 of whom are members of the Joint Standing Committee on Business and Economic Development and one of whom is a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, appointed by the Speaker of the House;

3. Two members who represent tobacco product manufacturers, appointed by the President of the Senate;

4. One member who provides health care services to citizens of this State, appointed by the Speaker of the House;