3.__Eligibility of owner of companion animal to participate.__ A resident of this State who has adopted a companion animal from an animal shelter is eligible to participate in the program if the person presenting the animal signs a consent form certifying that the person is the owner of the companion animal or is authorized by the owner to present the companion animal for the operation and that person pays a fee of $30.__The sterilization must be performed by a participating veterinarian.

4.__Reduced fee eligibility.__A resident of this State who presents a companion animal for sterilization may participate in the program for a reduced fee if the person:

A.__Signs a consent form certifying that the person is the owner of the companion animal or is authorized by the owner to present the companion animal for the procedure;

B.__Pays a fee of $15; and

C.__Is able to provide proof that the owner is receiving unemployment benefits or is eligible to participate in one of the following programs:

(1)__The federal Food Stamp Act of 1977, 7 United States Code, Sections 2011 to 2036 and the statewide food stamp program under Title 22, section 3104;

(2)__The program of supplementation of benefits for blind, disabled and elderly people provided by the United States Government pursuant to Title XVI of the United States Social Security Act, as amended, and Title 22, chapter 855-C;

(3)__The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program under the United States Social Security Act, as amended by the federal Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Public Law 104- 193, 110 Stat. 2105 and Title 22, chapter 1053-B; or

(4)__The MaineCare program established in Title 22, chapter 855.