3. Grounds for discipline. The following shall be are grounds for an action to modify, suspend, revoke or refuse to renew the license of a person licensed under this chapter:

A. The practice of fraud or deceit in obtaining a license under this chapter or in connection with service rendered within the scope of the license issued;

B. Any violation of this chapter or any rule adopted by the commissioner chief humane agent; or

C. Conviction of a crime involving cruelty to animals.

4. Penalty. Any person who knowingly violates this chapter or the rules issued pursuant to this chapter commits a civil violation for which the following forfeiture may be adjudged:

A. For the first violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $100; and

B. For each subsequent violation, a forfeiture not to exceed $250.

5. Rules. The commissioner chief humane agent may adopt such rules as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.

6. Inspection. In connection with the granting, continuance or renewal of a license and in connection with an investigation of alleged cruelty or alleged violation of this chapter or the rules issued pursuant to this chapter, the commissioner chief humane agent, at least annually, may visit and inspect the research and teaching institutions, animal research and care facilities of any licensee or of any research or teaching institution which that has applied for a license.

Sec. 24. 7 MRSA §4001, sub-§1, as enacted by PL 1987, c. 383, §3 and amended by PL 1993, c. 468, §25, is further amended to read:

1. Permit required. Any person sponsoring a calf or pig scramble shall obtain a permit from the commissioner chief humane agent for each specific event at least 10 days before the event.